Brossard Short-Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Brossard

Brossard, a city located in the Montérégie region of Quebec, Canada, has seen a rise in the popularity of short-term rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO in recent years. However, the regulations surrounding short-term rentals in the city are still evolving, and it's crucial for potential hosts to understand the rules and requirements before starting a short-term rental business.

Currently, Brossard does not have specific bylaws or zoning regulations explicitly addressing short-term rentals. However, this does not mean that short-term rentals are entirely unregulated in the city. Existing bylaws and regulations related to zoning, noise, and other municipal codes may still apply, depending on the specific circumstances of the rental property.

For example, if the short-term rental is operated from a single-family home, the homeowner may need to comply with regulations related to home-based businesses, parking requirements, and noise bylaws. Additionally, if the property is part of a condominium or a planned community with a homeowners' association (HOA), there may be additional rules and restrictions imposed by the governing body.

In discussions on platforms like Reddit and Bigger Pockets, some users have shared experiences of being offered sublets or rentals that explicitly prohibited short-term stays, highlighting the importance of understanding the specific rules and regulations of the property in question.

While Brossard does not currently have a dedicated licensing system for short-term rentals, the city has acknowledged the rise in popularity of these platforms and the potential concerns raised by residents regarding issues such as noise, parking, and property standards. As a result, the city may consider introducing regulations or licensing requirements in the future to address these concerns and strike a balance between encouraging short-term rentals and preserving the character of residential neighborhoods.

It's important to note that the regulations surrounding short-term rentals in Brossard are subject to change, and potential hosts should stay informed about any updates or new requirements implemented by the city or other governing bodies.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Brossard

According to the information provided, the City of Brossard requires hosts to obtain an Airbnb license and register their property before listing it on short-term rental platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, or Booking.com. This licensing requirement is in line with regulations established by the Quebec Tourism Ministry.

To operate a short-term rental legally in Brossard, hosts must meet the following requirements:

• Obtain an Airbnb License: Hosts must apply for and secure a permit or license specifically for short-term rentals from the City of Brossard. This license is mandatory for renting out a property on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO.
• Register the Property: In addition to obtaining the license, hosts must also register their property with the city as a short-term rental accommodation.
• Comply with Zoning Regulations: Short-term rental operators must ensure that their property complies with the city's zoning regulations, which may include restrictions on the maximum number of nights a property can be rented out per year or other limitations.
• Obtain Liability Insurance: As part of the licensing process, hosts may be required to obtain liability insurance to cover potential risks associated with short-term rentals.
• Pay Applicable Fees: The City of Brossard may charge fees for processing the license application and registration, which hosts must pay to obtain and maintain their short-term rental license.

It's important to note that failure to secure the necessary permits, licenses, and registration can result in fines or other penalties imposed by the city. Therefore, it is crucial for hosts to ensure they are operating legally and have obtained the required licenses and approvals before renting out their property on Airbnb or any other short-term rental platform in Brossard.

Required Documents for Brossard Short-Term Rentals

Operating a short-term rental in Brossard requires obtaining several documents and licenses to ensure compliance with local regulations. Here are some of the key documents and requirements:

1. Airbnb License/Permit: Hosts must apply for and obtain a specific license or permit from the City of Brossard to operate a short-term rental. This license is mandatory for listing a property on platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, or Booking.com.
2. Property Registration: In addition to the license, hosts must register their property with the City of Brossard as a short-term rental accommodation.
3. Liability Insurance: As part of the licensing process, hosts may be required to obtain liability insurance to cover potential risks associated with short-term rentals.
4. Zoning Compliance: Short-term rental operators must ensure that their property complies with the city's zoning regulations, which may include restrictions on the maximum number of nights a property can be rented out per year or other limitations.
5. CITQ Registration Number: According to the City of Brossard's website, to operate a tourist accommodation establishment, it is mandatory to have a registration number issued by the Corporation de l'industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ).
6. Proof of Ownership or Tenancy Agreement: Applicants for short-term rental licenses or permits may need to provide proof of ownership or a tenancy agreement for the property in question.
7. Floor Plans and Property Details: The city may require detailed floor plans, property descriptions, and other relevant information about the short-term rental unit as part of the application process.

It's important to note that these requirements may change over time, and short-term rental operators should consult with the relevant authorities or seek professional advice to ensure they have the most up-to-date information and are fully compliant with all applicable regulations.

Brossard Short-Term Rental Taxes

Operating a short-term rental in Brossard, Quebec, requires paying various taxes to local and provincial authorities. Here are the key taxes that apply:

1. Quebec Sales Tax (QST): The province of Quebec levies a sales tax of 9.975% on short-term rental transactions. This tax is applied to the total rental amount, including any additional fees like cleaning fees.
2. Tax on Lodging: Quebec imposes a tax on lodging, commonly known as the "lodging tax," on short-term rental stays. This tax is typically 3.5% of the price of an overnight stay. However, it is a flat rate of $3.50 per overnight stay when the accommodation unit is acquired by an intermediary (such as a tour operator) from the establishment operator for the purpose of renting it to another person.
3. Federal Goods and Services Tax (GST): The federal government levies a Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 5% on short-term rental transactions in Brossard.
4. Total Tax Rate: When combined, the total tax rate for short-term rentals in Brossard is approximately 18.475%. This includes the 9.975% Quebec Sales Tax (QST), the 3.5% Tax on Lodging, and the 5% Federal Goods and Services Tax (GST).

It's important to note that these tax rates are subject to change, and property owners should consult with the relevant authorities or seek professional advice to ensure they are complying with the most up-to-date tax regulations.

Many short-term rental platforms, such as Airbnb and VRBO, automatically calculate and collect the applicable taxes from guests during the booking process. However, hosts are still responsible for ensuring that the correct taxes are collected and remitted to the appropriate authorities.

Failure to properly collect and remit these taxes can result in penalties and fines from the relevant authorities. Therefore, it's crucial for short-term rental operators in Brossard to understand and comply with all applicable tax regulations to avoid any legal or financial consequences.

Canada Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

While short-term rental regulations in Canada are primarily governed by provincial and municipal authorities, there are some nationwide rules and guidelines that apply across the country. Here are some of the key Canada-wide short-term rental rules:

1. Tax Obligations: Short-term rental income is considered taxable income by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Hosts must report their rental earnings on their personal tax returns and pay applicable federal and provincial income taxes.
2. Goods and Services Tax (GST)/Harmonized Sales Tax (HST): Short-term rental operators are required to collect and remit the GST or HST on their rental income, depending on the province or territory where the rental property is located. The GST rate is 5%, while the HST rate varies by province (e.g., 13% in Ontario, and 15% in Nova Scotia).
3. Accommodation Taxes: Some provinces and municipalities have implemented additional accommodation taxes or levies specifically for short-term rentals. For example, in British Columbia, a 5% Provincial Sales Tax applies to short-term rental accommodations.
4. Principal Residence Requirement: Several provinces, including British Columbia and Ontario, have implemented regulations that restrict short-term rentals to the host's principal residence or primary dwelling.
5. Licensing and Registration: Many municipalities require short-term rental operators to obtain a business license or register their rental property with the local authorities. The specific requirements and fees vary by location.
6. Zoning and Bylaw Compliance: Short-term rental operators must comply with local zoning bylaws, noise ordinances, and other relevant regulations set forth by the municipality or community in which their property is located.
7. Safety and Building Code Standards: Short-term rental properties must meet applicable safety and building code standards, including fire safety regulations, electrical and gas safety requirements, and accessibility standards.

It's important to note that while these Canada-wide rules provide a general framework, short-term rental regulations can vary significantly across provinces, territories, and municipalities. Short-term rental operators should thoroughly research and comply with the specific regulations and requirements in their local jurisdiction to avoid potential fines, penalties, or legal consequences.

Does Brossard Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Based on the information gathered from platforms like Reddit and Bigger Pockets, it appears that Brossard takes a moderate stance in enforcing its short-term rental rules, making it a relatively Airbnb-friendly environment compared to some other cities.

While Brossard requires hosts to obtain an Airbnb license and register their properties before listing them on short-term rental platforms, the enforcement of these rules does not seem to be as strict as in cities with outright bans or stringent regulations.

Discussions on Reddit and Bigger Pockets suggest that many hosts continue to operate in Brossard despite the licensing and registration requirements. Some users have shared experiences of being offered rentals or sublets in the city that may not have been fully compliant with the regulations.

Compared to cities with strict enforcement measures, such as heavy fines or active crackdowns on illegal listings, Brossard appears to have a more balanced approach. The city acknowledges the presence of short-term rentals and has implemented regulations to manage the industry, but it does not seem to be taking an overly aggressive stance against hosts who may be operating without the necessary permits.

However, it's important to note that the lack of strict enforcement does not mean that hosts can operate with complete disregard for the rules. Failure to obtain the required licenses and registration can still result in fines or penalties, and the city may choose to tighten its enforcement efforts in the future.

Overall, based on the available information and discussions on real estate forums, Brossard can be considered a moderately Airbnb-friendly city with a balanced market and moderate competition. While hosts continue to operate despite the rules, it is advisable to comply with the licensing and registration requirements to avoid potential legal or financial consequences.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Brossard

Starting a short-term rental business in Brossard, Quebec, requires careful consideration of the local regulations and compliance with various licensing and permitting requirements. Here are the steps to get started:

1. Obtain an Airbnb License/Permit: Apply for and secure a specific license or permit from the City of Brossard to operate a short-term rental. This license is mandatory for listing a property on platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, or Booking.com.
2. Register Your Property: In addition to the license, you must register your property with the City of Brossard as a short-term rental accommodation.
3. Secure Liability Insurance: As part of the licensing process, you will be required to obtain liability insurance to cover potential risks associated with short-term rentals.
4. Comply with Zoning Regulations: Ensure that your property complies with Brossard's zoning regulations, which may include restrictions on the maximum number of nights a property can be rented out per year or other limitations.
5. Obtain a CITQ Registration Number: To operate a tourist accommodation establishment in Quebec, it is mandatory to have a registration number issued by the Corporation de l'industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ).
6. Provide Proof of Ownership or Tenancy Agreement: Applicants for short-term rental licenses or permits may need to provide proof of ownership or a tenancy agreement for the property in question.
7. Submit Floor Plans and Property Details: The city may require detailed floor plans, property descriptions, and other relevant information about the short-term rental unit as part of the application process.
8. Pay Applicable Fees: The City of Brossard may charge fees for processing the license application, registration, and other associated costs.
9. Understand Tax Obligations: Be prepared to collect and remit various taxes, including the Quebec Sales Tax (QST), the Tax on Lodging, and the Federal Goods and Services Tax (GST).
10. Comply with Safety and Building Standards: Ensure that your short-term rental property meets all necessary safety standards, including fire safety regulations, electrical and gas safety requirements, and accessibility standards.

It's important to note that these requirements may change over time, and short-term rental operators should consult with the relevant authorities or seek professional advice to ensure they have the most up-to-date information and are fully compliant with all applicable regulations.

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

If you have questions or need assistance regarding short-term rental regulations, zoning, and permitting in Brossard, Quebec, you can contact the following departments and individuals:

City of Brossard

1. Urban Planning Department
   Phone: 450-923-6311 (main line)
   Email: urbanisme@brossard.ca
2. Permits and Inspections Division
   Phone: 450-923-6311 (main line)
   Email: permis@brossard.ca

Quebec Tourism Ministry

Corporation de l'industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ)
Phone: 1-800-567-0678
Email: info@citq.qc.ca

While the provided search results did not contain specific contact details for individuals or dedicated short-term rental departments, the Urban Planning Department and the Permits and Inspections Division of the City of Brossard are likely the best points of contact for inquiries related to short-term rental regulations, zoning, and permitting requirements.

Additionally, the Quebec Tourism Ministry's CITQ (Corporation de l'industrie touristique du Québec) can be contacted for information and guidance on the provincial regulations and registration requirements for short-term rental operators in Quebec.

When contacting these departments, be prepared to provide details about your property, the intended use, and any specific questions or concerns you may have. It's also advisable to consult with a local attorney or property managers familiar with Brossard's regulations to ensure full compliance with all applicable laws and ordinances.

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

There are limited discussions specifically about Airbnb regulations in Brossard on Reddit. However, some users have shared experiences related to short-term rental regulations in the broader Montreal region.

One user mentioned that Airbnb listings in restricted zones, such as the Old Port area of Montreal, continue to operate despite regulations prohibiting them. This user suggested that the lack of strict enforcement by the city and platforms like Airbnb has allowed illegal listings to persist.

Another user reported encountering multiple Airbnb listings within their apartment building, despite potential restrictions imposed by the building's management or condo association rules. This highlights the challenges of enforcing short-term rental regulations at the individual property level.

Overall, the sentiment on Reddit suggests that while regulations exist, their enforcement can be inconsistent or lacking, leading some hosts to operate short-term rentals in potential violation of local rules.

The search results did not yield any relevant discussions or insights specifically related to Airbnb host experiences with regulations in Brossard.

However, discussions on Bigger Pockets often emphasize the importance of thoroughly researching and understanding local laws, zoning restrictions, and homeowners' association rules before investing in short-term rental properties.

Users advise exercising caution when operating short-term rentals in areas with unclear or evolving regulations, as the risks of fines or legal consequences can be significant if the regulatory landscape shifts.

In summary, while there is limited direct discussion about Brossard's short-term rental regulations on Reddit and Bigger Pockets, the available information suggests that some hosts may be operating in potential violation of local rules due to perceived lack of strict enforcement. However, users on these platforms generally advise caution and compliance with regulations to avoid potential legal or financial consequences.

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.