Short Term Rental Accommodations

Learn about the Township of Springwater's Short Term Rental Licensing program. Explore the resources below to learn about the application process and licensing requirements.

The Township of Springwater's Short-Term Rental Licensing By-law 2024-068 stipulates that operators and owners of all Short-Term Accommodations within the Township are required to obtain an annual licence to operate. Prior to completing the online application, review the required documents in order to obtain a Short-Term Rental Accommodation License. Operating without a licence may result in charges.

Short-Term Rental Annual Licence - Online Application

Short-Term Rental Annual Licence - PDF Application

Required Documents to Obtain a Short-Term Rental Accommodation Licence

Please review the documents below as these are required to complete the Short-Term Rental Accommodation Licensing application form.

Additional Resources for Licensed Short-Term Rental Properties

Complaints

If complaints are filed with the Responsible Person and no action is undertaken, please forward your complaint to the Township of Springwater at bylaw@springwater.ca or complete the online Report a Concern form.

Frequently Asked Questions

The goal in regulating Short-Term Rental Accommodations (STRA's) is to protect the quality and character of existing residential neighbourhoods, create a level playing field for all STRA operators, enhance consumer protection, and ensure STRA's provide occupants with a safe and healthy dwelling space.

What is defined as a Short-Term Rental Accommodation?

A short-term rental premises means a dwelling or dwelling unit, that in whole or in part, is rented or available for rent with the intention of financial compensation for an occupancy period of fewer than twenty-eight (28) consecutive calendar days but shall not include a bed and breakfast establishment, hotel, motel, or any other use otherwise defined by the Township's Zoning By-law.

What are the requirements for a Short-Term Rental Licence in Springwater?

The new Short-Term Rental Accommodation By-law 2024-068, sets out all of the requirements to qualify for a license.

How are maximum occupancy rates defined, and what is the maximum occupancy?

The maximum occupancy rate is set at a maximum of 10, which does not apply to children 12 years old or under.

If my short-term rental accommodation is licensed, what rules do I have to abide by?

Noise restrictions apply to all licensed STRA locations;
STRA’s are inspected to ensure the safety of the guests and surrounding properties;
Bylaw officers can issue fines for non-compliance with any license requirements or conditions;
STRA licenses can be suspended or revoked for non-compliance;
A Demerit Point System has been established to enforce the Short-Term Rental By-law or any other by-laws of the Township, provincial act or regulation, including, but not limited to, actions pursuant to the Building Code Act, Fire Protection and Prevention Act, and the Provincial Offences Act;
Responsible person shall keep a renter's log for a period of two (2) years;
A Licence may be suspended for a period of six months if the total Demerit Points in effect respecting a Short-Term Rental Accommodation is seven or more, refer to Short-Term Rental Licensing By-law 2024-068.

Are fireworks allowed at short-term rental licensed locations?

Yes, as per By-law 2023-108 the use of low hazard fireworks is permitted from 11:00 PM to 6:00 PM the next day, any day from Monday to Sunday. On New Year's Eve, you can start at midnight and continue until 6:00 PM. On New Year's Day, you have from 1:00 AM to 11:00 PM to enjoy your fireworks.