Chelsea Quebec rental owners face a steep permit cost surge to $750 by March 1 risking permit loss. Approved last December, it took effect Jan 14
One Airbnb operator has called the increase a “cash grab.” Some fear tourism and the economy will suffer because of this. The municipality limits permits to 65, stating that higher fees are needed to cover administrative costs. Chelsea is a small municipality, according to the mayor.
To set the fee, Chelsea looked at other towns, including Val-des-Monts and Cantley. Councillor Jain said Chelsea seeks new revenue to lower reliance on taxes. However, she called the increase “too much.”
Jain voted no, calling it a “hidden tax,” and knowing that owners wouldn’t like it. The mayor noted that some owners run rentals like businesses, and said $750 remains below commercial fees. Jain wanted to distinguish small operators.
Jost attended a town information session and believes the new fee may force price hikes. He worries renters may be discouraged, which is a worry shared by Freedman, a B&B owner. Freedman thinks it could hurt tourism.
Freedman, who paid $30 last year, feels jumping to $750 is “very unfair.” He plans a petition for the council. Jost thinks the town poorly informed owners and suspects they expected a negative reaction.
The mayor confirmed no letters went out, but will discuss complaints with staff. Jost has already paid the fee and the town may allow installment payments. Freedman, who hasn’t paid, might raise his prices, as he lives on his pension.
