Calgary has introduced significant changes to its short-term rental (STR) regulations, creating a ripple of concern among property owners and hosts. These changes, effective April 1, 2025, redefine short-term rentals to include stays of up to 180 consecutive days, replacing the previous 30-day limit. While aimed at enhancing community safety, fairness, and housing availability, these adjustments also introduce stricter licensing and operational requirements for STR operators. Amidst this shifting landscape, Premier Stays, Inc. remains committed to compliance, owner satisfaction, and advocacy for a fair regulatory environment.
Key Changes in Calgary’s STR Regulations
The new regulations include several pivotal updates:
- Extended Definition of STRs: Rentals up to 180 consecutive days now fall under the STR category.
- Licensing Requirements:
- Hosts must secure a business licence, with costs ranging from $172 to $510 depending on the property type. Renewal fees differ: $86 for primary residences and $260 for non-primary residences, ensuring that ongoing compliance is maintained at a reduced cost.
- Insurance with a minimum of $2 million liability coverage is mandatory.
- Fire safety plans and proof of property ownership or landlord consent are required.
- Operational Restrictions:
- No overlapping bookings for the same dwelling.
- Occupancy is limited to two adults per room, excluding minors.
- A moratorium on new STRs for non-primary residences when rental vacancy rates dip below 2.5%.
- Condominium Rules: While consent from condo boards is no longer required for licensing, hosts must still comply with their condominium’s bylaws, as enforcement remains an internal matter for condo boards. Notably, Premier Stays, Inc. believes that most condo boards are unlikely to restrict stays longer than 30 days. As a result, the 180-day minimum definition should not pose significant issues for owners concerned about STRs in their condos.
How Premier Stays, Inc. Ensures Compliance and Owner Satisfaction
Premier Stays, Inc. is fully committed to staying ahead of these regulatory changes to safeguard our owners’ investments and maintain our stellar reputation in Calgary’s short-term rental market. Here’s how we’re taking action:
- Comprehensive Compliance Strategy:
- We’re already implementing all required measures to meet the city’s licensing standards, from fire safety plans to insurance coverage.
- Premier Stays, Inc. will pay the city’s $3,000 operational fee, ensuring seamless compliance for our owners.
- Fairness to Owners:
- We take pride in treating our property owners as valued partners. By shouldering the licensing and compliance costs, we remove barriers and reduce the financial burden on individual owners.
- Our team proactively updates owners on regulation changes and ensures their properties are operated within legal boundaries.
- Advocacy and Collaboration:
- Premier Stays, Inc. is joining forces with other STR operators and industry stakeholders to challenge overly restrictive regulations that may hinder growth and innovation in Calgary’s rental market.
- Together, we’re advocating for balanced policies that consider the economic benefits of STRs while addressing community concerns.
The Benefits of Partnering with Premier Stays, Inc.
For property owners, the benefits of partnering with Premier Stays, Inc. are clear:
- Compliance Made Simple: We handle all aspects of licensing and regulatory compliance, saving you time and stress.
- Financial Relief: By covering the $3,000 operational fee, we ensure your property’s compliance without additional out-of-pocket costs.
- Expert Advocacy: As active participants in regulatory discussions, we represent our owners’ interests and strive to shape a fair, sustainable future for Calgary’s STR market.
- Community-Centric Approach: Our operations align with Calgary’s goals of safety and community well-being, ensuring a harmonious experience for guests and neighbors alike.
Looking Ahead
While Calgary’s new STR regulations pose challenges, they also present an opportunity to elevate industry standards and strengthen relationships between hosts, owners, and communities. At Premier Stays, Inc., we’re committed to leading the way by prioritizing compliance, fairness, and collaboration. By choosing us, property owners gain a trusted partner who not only meets the demands of today but is prepared to navigate the challenges of tomorrow.
Together, we can ensure that short-term rentals remain a vibrant, valuable part of Calgary’s economy and community fabric.