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

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

Short-term rentals, such as those listed on Airbnb and VRBO, have become increasingly popular in Mirabel, Canada. However, the city has implemented regulations to ensure these rentals are operated responsibly and do not negatively impact long-term housing availability. Here's what you need to know about short-term rental regulations in Mirabel.

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Mirabel

To operate a short-term rental in Mirabel, you must first ensure your property meets the city's zoning requirements. The New Montreal International Airport (Mirabel) Zoning Regulations apply to all lands and lands under water, including public road allowances, adjacent to or in the vicinity of the airport. It's important to confirm with the city's planning department that short-term rentals are allowed in your specific zone.

Next, as per Quebec's provincial regulations under the Tourist Accommodation Act, anyone listing a short-term rental must obtain a permit from the Corporation de l'industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ). To apply, you'll need to provide:

• Property title
• Proof of civil liability insurance
• Photos to identify the establishment
• Proof of compliance with the municipality's urban planning by-laws
• Declaration of co-ownership showing that the operation of the establishment for tourist accommodation purposes is allowed

As a short-term rental operator in Quebec, you'll also need to collect and remit various taxes, including:

1. Provincial Sales Tax (PST) of 8% on all short-term room rentals
2. Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 5% on all purchased goods and services, including short-term rentals

Keep accurate records of your income and expenses for tax purposes. You may be eligible for certain deductions, such as property taxes, insurance premiums, and maintenance costs.

When listing your Mirabel short-term rental on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO, include all necessary information, such as your CITQ permit number, to demonstrate your rental is operating legally. Provide clear house rules and local recommendations to help guests have a positive experience.

While information on Mirabel's specific enforcement of short-term rental regulations is limited, it's crucial to stay informed about any potential changes to local bylaws. By operating your short-term rental responsibly and in compliance with provincial and municipal requirements, you can help support Mirabel's tourism economy while minimizing any negative impacts on the local housing market.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Mirabel, Canada

To legally operate a short-term rental in Mirabel, Quebec, property owners must obtain a classification certificate from the Corporation de l'industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ). This requirement applies to any accommodation rented out to tourists for periods of 31 days or less.

To apply for the CITQ classification certificate, short-term rental operators in Mirabel must provide the following:

1. Property title
2. Proof of civil liability insurance
3. Photos to identify the establishment
4. Proof of compliance with the municipality's urban planning by-laws

For properties in a divided co-ownership (condo), a declaration of co-ownership showing that short-term rentals are allowed

The classification certificate application can be submitted online through the CITQ website. The cost of the certificate ranges from $50 to $75, depending on the type of accommodation.

In addition to the CITQ certificate, short-term rental operators in Mirabel must ensure their property complies with the city's zoning regulations. Zoning compliance is now a requirement to obtain the CITQ permit. If a property is located in a zone that does not allow for short-term rentals, the owner cannot obtain the necessary permit.

Failure to obtain the required CITQ classification certificate or operating a short-term rental in violation of municipal zoning regulations can result in fines and penalties. The exact amounts of these fines in Mirabel are not readily available on official city websites.

The processing time for the CITQ classification certificate is not specified. However, it's recommended that property owners begin the application process well in advance of their intended rental start date to allow sufficient time for approval.

In summary, to legally operate a short-term rental in Mirabel, property owners must:

1. Obtain a CITQ classification certificate ($50-$75 fee)
2. Ensure their property complies with municipal zoning regulations
3. For condos, provide a declaration of co-ownership allowing short-term rentals

Failure to meet these requirements can result in fines and penalties. Property owners should contact the CITQ and the City of Mirabel directly for the most up-to-date information on short-term rental licensing requirements and fees.

Required Documents for Mirabel, Canada Short-Term Rentals

To legally operate a short-term rental in Mirabel, Quebec, property owners must obtain a classification certificate from the Corporation de l'industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ). The following documents are required when applying for the certificate:

1. Property title: This document proves ownership of the property being rented. It can be obtained from the notary who handled the property purchase or through the Quebec Land Registry.
2. Proof of civil liability insurance: Short-term rental operators must provide proof of at least $2 million in liability insurance. This insurance protects the owner in case of accidents or damages caused by guests.
3. Photos to identify the establishment: Clear, representative photos of the rental property are required to help the CITQ properly identify and classify the establishment.
4. Proof of compliance with the municipality's urban planning by-laws: Owners must provide a document demonstrating that the operation of the short-term rental complies with Mirabel's zoning and urban planning regulations. This can be obtained from the city's urban planning department.
5. Declaration of co-ownership (if applicable): If the rental property is part of a divided co-ownership (condo), the owner must provide a declaration of co-ownership showing that short-term rentals are allowed. This document can be obtained from the condo association or property management company.

In addition to these documents, short-term rental operators in Mirabel must also:

1. Complete the appropriate registration form (for a general tourist accommodation establishment or a principal residence establishment)
2. Pay the required registration fees

Once the CITQ approves the application and issues the registration certificate, it must be displayed in a prominent location within the rental property.

It's important to note that the rights conferred by a CITQ registration cannot be transferred to another person. If a new operator takes over the property, they must submit a new application for registration.

By gathering these required documents and following the registration process, short-term rental operators in Mirabel can ensure they are complying with provincial and municipal regulations.

Mirabel, Canada Short-Term Rental Taxes

As a short-term rental operator in Mirabel, Quebec, it's important to understand the various taxes that apply to your business. Here's a breakdown of the taxes you'll need to collect and remit:

Provincial Sales Tax (PST): In Quebec, an 8% PST is charged on all short-term room rentals by hotels, motels, cottages, inns, resorts, and other roofed accommodations. This tax is collected by the operator and remitted to the provincial government.

Goods and Services Tax (GST): The federal GST is a value-added tax of 5% that applies to most purchased goods and services, including short-term rentals. As an operator, you must collect this tax from your guests and remit it to the Canada Revenue Agency if your total annual revenue from your Airbnb activities exceeds $30,000 in a 12-month period. Even if you don't meet this threshold, it can still be beneficial to register for GST voluntarily.

Lodging Tax: Mirabel charges a 3.5% lodging tax on short-term rentals of 31 nights or less. This tax is collected by the operator and remitted to the Province of Quebec. As of October 1, 2017, Airbnb has been automatically collecting this tax on behalf of hosts.

In total, guests in Mirabel can expect to pay an additional 16.5% in taxes on top of their short-term rental accommodation costs (8% PST + 5% GST + 3.5% Lodging Tax).

Tax Deductions and Write-Offs

As a short-term rental operator, you may be eligible for certain tax deductions and write-offs to help offset your tax liability. Some common deductions include:

1. Property taxes
2. Insurance premiums
3. Utility fees (if paid by the landlord)
4. Property management fees
5. Advertising costs
6. Maintenance and repair expenses
7. Depreciation on the property and furnishings

It's important to keep accurate records of all your expenses and consult with a tax professional to ensure you're claiming all eligible deductions.

By understanding the tax requirements and potential deductions for your short-term rental business in Mirabel, you can ensure compliance with local regulations and maximize your profitability. Be sure to register for the appropriate taxes, collect them from your guests, and remit them to the proper authorities to avoid any penalties or fines.

Quebec Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

In addition to Mirabel's specific short-term rental regulations, hosts must also comply with provincial rules set forth by the Government of Quebec. Key provincial requirements include:

CITQ Registration: Under the Tourist Accommodation Act, anyone offering a tourist accommodation for periods of 31 days or less must hold a classification certificate from the Corporation de l'industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ). This applies to all types of short-term rentals, including primary and secondary residences. Hosts must display their CITQ registration number on any listing or advertisement.

Taxes: Short-term rental operators in Quebec must collect and remit several taxes:

1. 8% Provincial Sales Tax (PST) on all short-term room rentals
2. 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on all purchased goods and services, including short-term rentals
3. 3.5% Lodging Tax, which Airbnb automatically collects on behalf of hosts in Quebec's 22 tourist regions

Insurance: Under the Tourist Accommodation Act, short-term rental operators must maintain civil liability insurance of at least $2 million per claim for bodily injury and property damage. The coverage provided by Airbnb's Host Liability Insurance does not satisfy this requirement.

Rent Control: Rent increases for short-term rentals in Quebec may be subject to the rent control system administered by the Régie du logement. Hosts should review these standards carefully if they plan to adjust rent prices.

Enforcement: As of September 1, 2023, the province implemented hefty fines for non-compliance with short-term rental regulations. Platforms like Airbnb face penalties of up to $100,000 per illegal listing without a valid CITQ registration number. Hosts providing false registration information can be fined up to $50,000.

Lease Agreements: Hosts who are tenants must ensure their lease allows for subletting or short-term rentals. Many standard leases in Quebec prohibit these activities without the landlord's consent.

It's crucial for Mirabel hosts to understand and comply with both municipal and provincial short-term rental regulations. Failure to do so can result in significant financial penalties and the removal of listings from platforms like Airbnb. By staying informed and taking the necessary steps to operate legally, hosts can continue to benefit from Mirabel's growing tourism economy.

Does Mirabel Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Based on the limited information I could find on Reddit and other online forums, it seems that Mirabel itself does not have a strong reputation for strictly enforcing short-term rental regulations compared to some other Canadian cities. However, the province of Quebec as a whole has been cracking down more on illegal short-term rentals in recent years.

Some key points:

1. Quebec implemented new rules in September 2023 requiring short-term rental platforms like Airbnb to ensure all listings have valid registration numbers or face hefty fines. This has led to an increase in the compliance rate.
2. However, some housing advocates argue the new rules still have loopholes and aren't being enforced strictly enough. There are concerns some hosts are using fake registration numbers.
3. Discussions on Reddit suggest proving a short-term rental is not the host's primary residence, as required in some areas, can be difficult for authorities. But some argue it shouldn't be that hard for inspectors to investigate and fine repeat offenders.
4. Anecdotally, some Airbnb hosts on Reddit report still being able to operate in Quebec if they follow the rules, like only renting out a portion of their primary residence. The consensus seems to be that the average person can still host part-time profitably if they are compliant.

So, in summary, while Mirabel itself may not have a reputation as an Airbnb battleground, the provincial government in Quebec is making an effort to restrict illegal short-term rentals, with mixed results so far. Compliant hosts can still operate, but those blatantly violating the rules are facing more scrutiny and consequences than a few years ago. Compared to some cities, Mirabel is likely more Airbnb friendly, but Quebec's stance overall has shifted.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Mirabel, Canada

Starting a short-term rental business in Mirabel, Quebec, can be a rewarding venture, but it's important to follow the proper steps to ensure compliance with local and provincial regulations. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

• Research local and provincial regulations: Familiarize yourself with Mirabel's zoning requirements and Quebec's provincial rules for short-term rentals. Ensure your property is eligible for short-term rental use and understand the necessary permits, licenses, and taxes. Contact the City of Mirabel's urban planning department and the Corporation de l'industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ) for the most up-to-date information on regulations.
• Create a business plan: Develop a comprehensive business plan that outlines your goals, target market, pricing strategy, marketing approach, and financial projections. This will serve as a roadmap for your short-term rental business. Research similar listings in your area to gauge demand, competition, and pricing. Use this information to refine your business plan and set realistic goals.
• Register your business: Register your short-term rental business with the Quebec government and obtain a business number. This will be necessary for tax purposes and to apply for the required permits and licenses. Consider forming a legal business entity, such as a corporation or LLC, to protect your personal assets and take advantage of potential tax benefits.
• Obtain necessary permits and licenses: Apply for a CITQ classification certificate, which is required for all tourist accommodations rented for periods of 31 days or less. Provide proof of ownership, civil liability insurance, photos of the establishment, and compliance with municipal by-laws. Begin the CITQ application process early to allow sufficient time for processing and any necessary inspections.
• Prepare your property: Ensure your rental property is clean, well-maintained, and equipped with essential amenities. Consider hiring a professional photographer to capture high-quality images for your listings. Create a comprehensive guidebook for guests, including house rules, local recommendations, and emergency contact information.
• List your property: Choose popular short-term rental platforms, such as Airbnb and Vrbo, to list your property. Craft an engaging description, set competitive rates, and include your CITQ registration number on all listings and advertisements. Optimize your listing with high-quality photos, detailed descriptions, and attractive amenities to stand out from the competition.
• Manage your bookings and guests: Respond promptly to guest inquiries, maintain clear communication, and provide excellent customer service. Ensure your property is clean and well-prepared for each new guest. Consider using a property management software or hiring a professional property manager to streamline operations and provide a seamless guest experience.
• Comply with tax requirements: Register for and collect the required taxes, including the 8% Provincial Sales Tax (PST), 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST), and 3.5% Lodging Tax. Keep accurate records of your income and expenses for tax purposes. Work with a tax professional to ensure you're claiming all eligible deductions and maximizing your tax benefits.

By following these steps and staying informed about local and provincial regulations, you can successfully launch and operate a compliant and profitable short-term rental business in Mirabel, Quebec.

Who to Contact in Mirabel, Canada about Short-Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

If you have questions about short-term rental regulations or zoning in Mirabel, there are several resources available:

City of Mirabel Urban Planning Department: For inquiries related to zoning and land use regulations, contact the Urban Planning Department at 450-475-2007 or by email at urbanisme@ville.mirabel.qc.ca.

Corporation de l'industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ): For questions about obtaining a classification certificate for your short-term rental, contact the CITQ at 1-800-567-2748 or by email at info@citq.qc.ca.

Mirabel City Hall: For general inquiries or to be directed to the appropriate department, contact Mirabel City Hall at 450-475-8653 or visit their website at https://www.ville.mirabel.qc.ca/.

In addition to these official resources, you may find it helpful to connect with other short-term rental hosts in Mirabel and the surrounding areas through online communities and forums:

Airbnb Community - Quebec: Join the discussion and connect with other hosts in the Quebec region on the Airbnb Community forum at https://community.withairbnb.com/t5/Quebec/bd-p/quebec-ca. While not specific to Mirabel, you may find valuable insights and experiences from hosts operating in similar regulatory environments.

VRBO Community - Canada: Engage with other vacation rental owners and managers in Canada on the VRBO Community forum at https://community.vrbo.com/t5/Canada/bd-p/canada. Share experiences, ask questions, and stay informed about industry trends and best practices.

Mirabel Travel Forum on TripAdvisor: Although primarily geared towards travelers, the Mirabel Travel Forum on TripAdvisor at https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowForum-g562682-i33920-Mirabel_Quebec.html may provide an opportunity to connect with local residents and business owners who can offer insights into the short-term rental market in Mirabel.

By reaching out to the appropriate city departments and engaging with the local short-term rental community, you can ensure you have the most up-to-date information on regulations and zoning in Mirabel.

What Do Airbnb Hosts in Mirabel, Canada on Reddit and Bigger Pockets Think about Local Regulations?

After searching Reddit, Bigger Pockets, and other online forums, there appears to be limited discussion specifically from Airbnb hosts in Mirabel, regarding local short-term rental regulations. However, some insights can be gleaned from broader discussions about short-term rental regulations in Quebec and Canada:

In a Reddit thread titled "Some Airbnb hosts lie about units being their main residence," users discuss the challenges of enforcing Quebec's requirement that short-term rentals be operated out of a host's primary residence. One commenter suggests that while it may be difficult for authorities to prove a violation, "it shouldn't be that hard" for inspectors to investigate and fine repeat offenders.

On the Airbnb Hosts subreddit, a post titled "Canadian Hosts" discusses the impact of new tax rules on short-term rentals. One commenter clarifies that the new rules only apply to illegal short-term rentals, not those operating in compliance with local regulations.

In a Bigger Pockets forum post titled "AirBNB Starting Out in Canada!!", a user from Vancouver shares their experience starting a short-term rental business and invites others to share their stories, both good and bad. While not specific to Mirabel, this suggests there is interest among Canadian hosts in learning from each other's experiences navigating local regulations.

A Reddit post titled "'Airbnbust'? Why Canada's short-term rental hosts are in for a harsh winter" discusses the challenges facing short-term rental operators across Canada, including rising interest rates and new municipal taxes. While not Mirabel-specific, the article highlights the financial pressures hosts are facing in the current regulatory environment.

While these discussions provide some context on the broader short-term rental landscape in Quebec and Canada, the lack of Mirabel-specific content suggests that hosts in the city may not be actively discussing local regulations in public online forums. It's possible that these conversations are happening in private Facebook groups or local meetups, but verifying those discussions is more challenging. As Mirabel continues to refine its short-term rental policies, it will be important to monitor online forums for any emerging discussions among local hosts.

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.