The province’s Tourist Establishments Act is no more. A new act is being introduced as the popularity of online short-term rentals such as Airbnb continues to rise.

The Tourist Accommodations Act will include a number of changes to create what government calls an equal playing field for all accommodation operators

As of today, most accommodations, both licensed and unlicensed, will be required to register with the province.

Tourism Minister Steve Crocker says not only will all accommodations face the same costs and standards, but it also ensures that visitors are staying in rentals that are maintained and meet all safety regulations.

As of today, the Tourist Accommodation Act will replace the Tourism Establishments Act. It will require all accommodations, both licensed and unlicensed, to be registered under a new regulation process.

The changes are made due to the popularity of online short-term rental sites pic.twitter.com/tFaiKahU7u

— Sara Strickland (@_SaraStrickland) April 4, 2023

Exceptions will be made for any rental where the owner is currently living at the residence, such as those renting a room in their home.

If someone owns multiple property, they must submit a registration application for each accommodation.

In order to be approved, accommodations must meet a number of safety regulations such as passing a fire inspection and receiving municipal approval. Once approved, they will not have to renew their license each year.

There will be no fees to register and those failing to register accommodations will be subject to fines ranging from $250 to $2,000.

All accommodations must be registered by March 31, 2024.