Nova Scotia’s new rules governing Airbnbs and other short-term rentals will come into effect September 30.
The new regulations include registration requirements, annual fees and penalties for owners found to be non-compliant.
According to Nova Scotia Housing Minister John Lohr, the regulations are intended to ease the stress of the housing crisis while more housing can be built.
“Nova Scotians need housing. We know many houses and apartments that could potentially be long-term homes are being rented short-term,” said Lohr. “We’re working to get more homes built. In the meantime, these changes will help address the urgent need for housing now.”
New Regulations
- All tourist accommodations and short-term rentals will be required to provide supporting documentation such as proof of compliance with municipal bylaws and, where applicable, written consent from the property owner(s) or condo board, and proof of primary residence.
- Annual registration rates range from $50 to $2,000 per unit depending on the accommodation type and location; higher rates apply to short-term rentals in areas where the need for housing is greater.
- Unregistered or non-compliant short-term rental operators may be subject to fines up to $100,000.
Short-term rental operators like Airbnb and VRBO will also be required to register with the province as well.
Currently, there are 7,193 short-term rentals registered within Nova Scotia.
Registration is expected to open by mid-August, and short-term rental owners are being asked to submit their documents no later than September 16.
