Montreal is stepping up efforts to regulate short-term rentals to address housing issues, with new rules and fines on the horizon
So, here’s the scoop. Starting this September, short-term rentals in main residences will be banned until June. If you want to rent out your place on sites like Airbnb during the summer, you’ll need a permit.
Only certain tourist spots in commercial areas can be rented out year-round. They’re serious about this, too. Fines could hit $1,000 a night for individuals and $2,000 for businesses that don’t follow the rules.
They’re also ramping up the number of inspectors from three to seven. A draft regulation is set to be discussed soon, and the mayor will share more details in a press conference.
This push comes after a tragic fire in Old Montreal that claimed seven lives. The city has already banned short-term rentals in some areas, and now they’re tightening the reins even more.
In 2023, Quebec passed a law allowing people to rent their primary homes, but only with a license. So, if you want to rent your main residence this summer, you’ll need to get a permit from both the city and the Ministry of Tourism.
These new rules are expected to kick in on June 10. It’s a big move for Montreal, and they’re hoping it’ll help with the housing situation.
