The first phase of a new bylaw affecting short-term rental accommodations in the City of Calgary is now in place.
Amendments to the Business License Bylaw for short-term rental properties were approved by city council in December and came into effect on April 1.
In a news release, the city says the changes, “reflect the city’s commitment to adapt to the growing short-term rental market while ensuring clear regulations, safety and effective enforcement.”
“We recognize the popularity of short-term rentals for visitors and temporary residents. These amendments balance tourism and business needs while addressing housing concerns,” says Melanie Bishoff, acting manager, business experience, in the release. “By refining licensing requirements, clarifying regulations and enhancing oversight, we are creating a more transparent and responsible short-term rental market that prioritizes community well-being, guest safety and housing availability.”
The following changes and amendments are now in effect, as per the city’s news release:
Primary and non-primary residence licences: The licence type will be issued based on whether the short-term rental is operated from a primary or non-primary residence. Current licence holders will be required to verify the status of their property upon renewal. This approach allows the city to understand the volume of commercialized short-term rentals.
Updated fees: Licence renewal fees are $131 for primary residences and $260 for non-primary residences. New licences will cost $172 for primary residences and $510 for non-primary residences. Fire inspection fees for both new and renewal licences are an additional $114.
Expanded definition: Short-term rentals now include property rentals up to 180 consecutive days. If you own a short-term rental and are offering stays between zero and 180 consecutive days, you will require a business licence to operate in Calgary.
Removing condo board consent: Consent from the condo board will no longer be required by the City of Calgary. Business license applicants must comply with their condominium’s bylaws and condo boards have internal mechanisms to address non-compliance.
Business licences will not be issued to homes designated as affordable housing: To protect and maintain affordable housing options, the city, in collaboration with the city’s Housing Solutions, will not issue short-term rental business licences to homes designated for affordable housing.
Administration is working on the implementation of short-term rental company business licences and data sharing agreements.
“Although approved by city council, the moratorium on new non-primary residence rentals will not take effect in 2025,” says Bishoff. “The city will only impose a temporary pause on issuing new non-primary licences if the purpose-built rental vacancy rate falls below 2.5 per cent. This would not apply to new primary residence applications or existing licences. Currently, the vacancy rate is 4.8 per cent.”
The city’s release continues, “The bylaw amendments reflect the city’s commitment to balancing housing affordability, community well-being and the economic benefits of short-term rentals. The changes streamline business processes, address regulatory gaps and enhance guest safety.”
