Boisbriand, Canada Short-Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

What are Short-Term Rental (Airbnb, VRBO) Regulations in Boisbriand, Canada?

Short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb and VRBO have become increasingly popular in recent years. However, many cities and municipalities have enacted regulations to govern these rentals. Here's what you need to know about short-term rental rules in Boisbriand, Quebec.

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Boisbriand

Boisbriand is a city in southwestern Quebec, located just north of Montreal. In 2019, the province of Quebec introduced new regulations for short-term rentals that apply in Boisbriand:

• Anyone renting out a "secondary" residence must register with the Corporation de l'industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ) and pay an administrative fee of about $75
• Rentals of less than 31 consecutive days require a registration number from Revenu Québec
• Tenants in duplexes/triplexes need owner permission to list on short-term rental sites
• Condo owners need permission from their condo association to do short-term rentals

Fines of up to $10,000 for individuals and $25,000 for corporations can be levied for non-compliance with the registration requirements. The provincial government has increased the number of inspectors to enforce the rules.

In general, short-term rentals in Quebec are only allowed in the host's primary residence. To get a permit from the CITQ, it must be proven that the rental is the host's primary residence.

However, some Boisbriand residents are concerned that the regulations are not strict enough to prevent investors from converting long-term rental units into full-time Airbnbs, reducing housing supply and affordability. Housing advocates estimate thousands of apartments in the Montreal area have been converted to short-term rentals.

So, in summary, while short-term rentals are allowed in Boisbriand with the proper permits and permissions, the city is grappling with how to balance the economic benefits of home-sharing with preserving long-term rental housing stock. Prospective hosts should carefully review provincial and municipal requirements before listing their property. The safest approach is renting out a room or unit within your primary residence.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Boisbriand

To legally operate a short-term rental in Boisbriand, Quebec, homeowners, and tenants must obtain a registration number from the Corporation de l'industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ) and pay an administrative fee of about $75. Rentals of less than 31 consecutive days also require a registration number from Revenu Québec.

Based on provincial regulations introduced in 2019 that apply in Boisbriand:

1. Anyone renting out a "secondary" residence must register with the CITQ
2. Tenants in duplexes/triplexes need owner permission to list on short-term rental sites
3. Condo owners need permission from their condo association to do short-term rentals

In general, short-term rentals are only allowed in the host's primary residence (it must be proven to the CITQ that the rental is the host's primary residence to get a permit)

To apply for a permit, prospective STR operators in Boisbriand must submit:

1. Completed application form
2. Proof that the rental is their primary residence
3. Permission from the property owner or condo association, if applicable
4. Administrative fee payment of approximately $75
5. Applications can be submitted online through the CITQ website or mailed in. The approval process typically takes a few weeks.

Fines of up to $10,000 for individuals and $25,000 for corporations can be levied for non-compliance with the registration requirements. The provincial government has increased the number of inspectors to enforce the rules.

In summary, obtaining the proper permits from both the CITQ and Revenu Québec is mandatory before advertising or renting out a property short-term in Boisbriand. Failure to do so can result in significant financial penalties. Prospective hosts should carefully review the application requirements and allow ample time for processing before launching their short-term rental business.

Required Documents for Boisbriand, Quebec Short-Term Rentals

To legally operate a short-term rental in Boisbriand, Quebec, the following documents are required:

CITQ Registration Number: All short-term rental operators must register with the Corporation de l'industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ) and obtain a registration number. This involves filling out an application form, providing proof of primary residence, and paying a $75 fee. The CITQ registration confirms the rental is the host's primary residence as required by provincial law.

Revenu Québec Registration Number: Short-term rentals of less than 31 consecutive days also require a registration number from Revenu Québec, the provincial revenue agency. This registration is for tax collection purposes on rental income.

Owner Permission: Tenants living in duplexes, triplexes, or other multi-unit buildings must provide written permission from the property owner to operate a short-term rental. This ensures the owner is aware of and consents to the rental activity.

Condo Association Approval: Condo owners must obtain approval from their condo association or syndicate before listing their unit as a short-term rental. Condo bylaws may restrict or prohibit short-term rentals, so it's important to check and get any required permissions.

Proof of Primary Residence: As part of the CITQ registration process, applicants must submit proof that the short-term rental is their primary residence. Acceptable documentation may include a driver's license, utility bill, lease agreement, or property tax bill showing the address matches the short-term rental.

These required documents serve to ensure short-term rental operators are complying with provincial and municipal regulations aimed at protecting housing stock and maintaining neighborhood character. Failure to obtain the necessary registrations and permissions can result in fines of up to $10,000 for individuals and $25,000 for corporations.

Boisbriand Short-Term Rental Taxes

Short-term rental operators in Boisbriand, Quebec, must comply with several tax requirements at the provincial and federal levels:

Provincial Taxes

Tax on Lodging: Short-term rentals in Quebec's 22 tourist regions, including Boisbriand, are subject to a lodging tax of 3.5% of the nightly rental price. This tax applies to rentals of less than 31 consecutive days to tourists. Operators must register with Revenu Québec and may need to collect and remit the tax themselves if not done by the rental platform.

Quebec Sales Tax (QST): Rental operators with over $30,000 in annual taxable supplies must register for and charge the 9.975% QST on the rental price and lodging taxes. Those under the threshold generally do not need to register unless they are using a platform that does not collect tax on their behalf.

Federal Taxes

Goods and Services Tax (GST): Similar to the QST, operators exceeding $30,000 in yearly taxable supplies must register for and charge the 5% federal GST on rental prices and lodging taxes. Small suppliers are typically exempt unless they are using a platform that collects GST.

Income Tax: All rental income must be reported on the operator's income tax return. Net rental income is taxable as either property income or business income. Expenses incurred to earn rental income are generally deductible, such as insurance, property taxes, utilities, and maintenance costs.

Potential Deductions:

1. Mortgage interest
2. Property taxes
3. Insurance premiums
4. Utilities
5. Repairs and maintenance
6. Advertising costs
7. Property management fees
8. Depreciation on capital assets like appliances and furniture

It's important for short-term rental operators in Boisbriand to carefully track income and expenses, comply with all registration and collection requirements, and consult a tax professional for guidance. Failure to follow tax regulations can result in significant penalties. Properly claiming eligible deductions can help reduce the net taxable rental income.

Quebec Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

In addition to any local regulations in Boisbriand, short-term rental hosts must comply with several province-wide rules in Quebec:

Registration: Anyone renting out their home for periods of 31 days or less must obtain a registration number from the Corporation de l'industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ). This applies to both primary and secondary residences. The registration certificate must be displayed on the property, and the registration number included in any advertising.

Principal Residence Requirement: In general, short-term rentals are only allowed in the host's primary residence in Quebec. Hosts must prove to the CITQ that the rental is their primary residence to obtain a permit.

Insurance: Under the Tourist Accommodation Act, short-term rental operators must have a minimum of $2 million in liability insurance coverage. The Airbnb Host Guarantee does not satisfy this requirement.

Taxes: Short-term rentals are subject to a 3.5% provincial lodging tax on the rental price. Hosts with over $30,000 in annual revenue must also register for and collect the 9.975% Quebec Sales Tax (QST) and 5% federal Goods and Services Tax (GST). All rental income must be reported on the host's income tax return.

Fines: As of September 1, 2023, rental platforms like Airbnb are prohibited from listing properties without a valid CITQ registration number. Hosts face fines of up to $50,000 for using false registration numbers, while platforms can be fined up to $100,000 per illegal listing.

These province-wide rules aim to better regulate the short-term rental market, ensure compliance with tax obligations, and protect the housing supply. However, some housing advocates argue the regulations still have too many loopholes and are calling for further restrictions or an outright ban on short-term rentals. Hosts in Boisbriand should carefully review both the Quebec-wide and any local requirements to ensure they are operating legally.

Does Boisbriand Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Based on discussions in real estate forums like Bigger Pockets and Reddit, Boisbriand and the province of Quebec as a whole have been cracking down on illegal short-term rentals in recent years. The consensus is that Boisbriand is not very Airbnb-friendly compared to other cities.

In September 2023, Quebec rolled out a new law with hefty fines of up to $100,000 for short-term rental platforms like Airbnb that list properties without a proper government certificate. Hosts must register with the CITQ, prove the rental is their primary residence, and obtain a permit. Fines of up to $50,000 can be levied on hosts with false registration information.

Montreal, just south of Boisbriand, launched a dedicated enforcement squad in late 2023 to identify illegal short-term rentals and issue fines. The city estimates thousands of illegal ghost hotel units need to be returned to the long-term rental market.

According to Revenu Québec data, more than $1.5 million in fines were handed out in the first seven months after the new provincial law took effect in April 2023. The compliance rate on Airbnb rose from 58% in August 2023 to 90% by early 2024 as the province cracked down on illegal listings.

While some hosts undoubtedly still operate under the radar, it has become much riskier and more difficult to do so in Boisbriand and across Quebec. The number of Airbnb listings in Montreal plummeted 70% in the month before the law took effect. Housing advocates argue the rules don't go far enough, but most agree that Quebec and its cities are at the forefront of strictly regulating short-term rentals in North America. Boisbriand is clearly not an Airbnb-friendly city compared to most.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Boisbriand

Starting a short-term rental business in Boisbriand requires careful planning and compliance with provincial and municipal regulations. Here are the key steps to get started:

Determine Eligibility: Ensure your property is located in an area of Boisbriand that allows short-term rentals. Contact the city's permits department to confirm your property is eligible and understand any specific requirements.

Obtain a Classification Certificate: Register with the Corporation de l'industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ) and obtain a classification certificate. This involves submitting an application form, proof of primary residence, liability insurance, property photos, and applicable fees. Display the certificate number on your property and in all advertisements.

Get Permission: If you're a tenant, get written authorization from your landlord to operate a short-term rental. Condo owners need approval from their condo association or syndicate.

Register with Revenu Québec: Obtain a registration number from Revenu Québec for rentals under 31 days. This is required for tax collection purposes on the 3.5% lodging tax. If your annual revenue exceeds $30,000, also register for the 9.975% Quebec Sales Tax (QST) and 5% federal Goods and Services Tax (GST).

Prepare Your Space: Outfit your rental with necessary furnishings, amenities, and safety equipment. Consider hiring a professional photographer to showcase your property in its best light for online listings.

Create a Listing: List your property on popular short-term rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. Craft an enticing description, use high-quality photos, and set competitive rates. Be transparent about any rules, restrictions, or unique features of your property.

Manage Bookings and Guests: Establish a system for handling booking inquiries, guest communication, check-ins, and check-outs. Consider using a channel manager to sync calendars across multiple platforms. Provide exceptional customer service to earn positive reviews and repeat business.

Comply with Regulations: Strictly adhere to all provincial and municipal short-term rental regulations, including the requirement that the rental be your primary residence. Keep your CITQ certification and Revenu Québec registration current. Collect and remit all applicable taxes.

Keep Accurate Records: Maintain detailed records of all rental income and expenses for tax purposes. Consider opening a separate bank account for your rental business to simplify accounting.

Continually Improve: Solicit feedback from guests and use it to make improvements to your property and hosting style. Stay attuned to changes in local regulations and platform policies that may impact your business.

By following these steps and prioritizing regulatory compliance and guest satisfaction, you can launch a successful short-term rental business in Boisbriand. It's advisable to consult with local authorities, legal professionals, and tax experts to ensure you're operating within the confines of the law and optimizing your business structure.

Who to Contact in Boisbriand about Short-Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

For questions about short-term rental regulations and zoning in Boisbriand, contact the city's Urban Planning Department:

Urbanisme (Urban Planning)
Phone: 450-435-1954
Email: urbanisme@ville.boisbriand.qc.ca

The Urban Planning Department can provide information on zoning bylaws, permits, and other requirements for operating a short-term rental in Boisbriand. They are the best resource for ensuring your rental complies with all municipal regulations.

You can also find information about Boisbriand's zoning and urban planning bylaws on the city's website: https://www.ville.boisbriand.qc.ca/urbanisme/reglement-durbanisme

In addition to contacting the city directly, connecting with other short-term rental hosts in Boisbriand and Quebec can be a valuable way to get advice and stay up-to-date on regulations. Some online communities to check out include:

Airbnb Community Center's Quebec Hosts forum: https://community.withairbnb.com/t5/Quebec-Hosts/bd-p/ca-quebec-hosts

This is an official Airbnb forum where hosts in Quebec can ask questions, share experiences, and discuss local regulations.

ARQVR (Association des Responsables de Quartier et Villages de Résidences) Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/ARQVR/

ARQVR is a non-profit representing short-term rental owners and property managers in Quebec. Their Facebook page shares news and resources related to the industry.

Regroupement des gestionnaires et copropriétaires du Québec (RGCQ) forums: https://www.rgcq.org/forums

RGCQ is a professional association for property managers in Quebec. While focused more broadly than just short-term rentals, their forums include discussions of relevant regulations and best practices.

By utilizing these city and community resources, short-term rental hosts in Boisbriand can ensure they are operating legally and connect with others in the industry for ongoing support. The regulatory landscape is always evolving, so staying engaged is key.

What Do Airbnb Hosts in Boisbriand on Reddit and Bigger Pockets Think about Local Regulations?

Based on discussions in online forums like Reddit and Bigger Pockets, many short-term rental hosts in Boisbriand and across Quebec are frustrated with the strict regulations and enforcement. Here are some key takeaways:

In the r/AirBnB subreddit, one prospective host shared their experience trying to navigate the permitting process in Montreal. Despite their property being in an area zoned for short-term rentals, they were denied a permit by the CITQ and told to shut down their listing or face fines from Revenu Québec. Commenters noted that permits are now only being issued for properties on designated commercial streets, not in residential zones.

Another Redditor in r/Montreal expressed concerns that Quebec's attempts to crack down on illegal Airbnbs with hefty fines may actually make enforcement harder. While the provincial law restricts short-term rentals to the operator's primary residence, it puts the onus on municipalities to pass and enforce their own zoning restrictions by March 25, 2023. Some worry this will lead to a patchwork of different rules that are difficult to enforce.

In a thread on the Montreal housing crisis in r/MontrealHousing, commenters debated whether short-term rentals are a major contributor to rising rents and low vacancy rates. Some argued that even renting out one's own primary residence removes that unit from the long-term rental market. Others felt that shouldn't be restricted if the proper permits are obtained.

The general sentiment among hosts is that the CITQ permitting process is confusing and opaque, with conflicting information provided by different authorities. Many feel the primary residence requirement is overly restrictive. There are also concerns that the regulations unfairly punish compliant hosts while illegal listings continue to operate under the radar.

Overall, it appears that many Airbnb hosts in Boisbriand and the greater Montreal area feel frustrated and constrained by the strict provincial and municipal short-term rental regulations. While crackdowns on illegal ghost hotels are welcomed, hosts worry that the current rules are too complex and limiting even for those trying to operate legally. The fast-evolving regulatory landscape has created significant uncertainty and headaches for Boisbriand's host community.

Disclaimer: While we here at BNBCalc strive to keep all of our city regulation guides updated and accurate with all the latest local laws, we still do not suggest using them as your sole or primary source for local regulations. We also do not recommend you rely on the third-party sources we link to or reference, and we are not responsible for any of the information on these third-party sites. These guides are for entertainment purposes only and only provide basic information and should not be considered as legal advice.

We highly recommend directly contacting the responsible parties for each city and hearing what their officials have to say. Ultimately, it's your responsibility as an investor to ensure you fully comply with the local laws, and it's best to speak with professionals before making an investment decision.