‘A per-bedroom fee is a fairer way to distribute costs’: Council approves new short-term rental accommodations

Short-term rental. (FILE IMAGE)

It just got a little brighter in Sunshine City, as new short-term rental accommodations, which feature a “more equitable system,” are being introduced in Orillia, according to the City.

Council approved a new Short-term Rental Accommodation (STRA) licence fee structure that will kick off in the 2026 licensing year.

Currently, STRA operators in Orillia pay a single flat fee regardless of the size of their rental. Officials say the new fee structure will be more justifiable and better reflect the scale of operation and potential impact on surrounding neighbourhoods.

The new fee sits at $680 per bedroom, with a maximum fee of $2,040 per STRA property.

• Orillia implements its new short-term rental licencing bylaw

“A per-bedroom fee is a fairer way to distribute costs among operators,” said Don McIsaac, Mayor of Orillia. “It recognizes that larger properties have greater earning potential and a higher likelihood of requiring enforcement resources compared to smaller rentals.”

“Short-term rental accommodations play an important role in supporting a diverse tourism economy,” said Michael Ladouceur, director of business development, tourism, and modernization.

Ladouceur stating that by offering a mix of traditional and non-conventional accommodations, the City can help attract a wide range of visitors to the area. “The Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) collected through these rentals allows the city and Orillia and Lake Country Tourism to reinvest in local tourism development and promotion,” he said.

A licence is required to operate a STRA in Orillia and will be required each year.

The city recommends that you submit a completed application well in advance of Jan. 1 to ensure that your application can be processed on time.