Mont-Tremblant Short-Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Mont-Tremblant

Mont-Tremblant, a popular tourist destination in Quebec's Laurentian Mountains, has specific regulations in place for short-term rental properties listed on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. The city has implemented these rules to balance the growth of the STR industry with the preservation of residential neighborhoods and housing stock.

According to discussions on platforms like Reddit and Bigger Pockets, short-term rentals in Mont-Tremblant are subject to zoning restrictions, limiting their operation to certain areas designated for commercial or mixed-use purposes. Residential zones, particularly those with single-family homes, generally prohibit short-term rentals.

One Reddit user shared their experience of being offered a sublet in an apartment complex that explicitly prohibited short-term rentals, highlighting the prevalence of enforcement efforts in the city. Another user mentioned that while new modular home developments in the area are able to operate as short-term rentals, existing properties may face restrictions based on their zoning.

The City of Mont-Tremblant's website clearly states that "vacation rentals are still prohibited" in certain areas, emphasizing the ongoing enforcement of these regulations. Failure to comply with the zoning rules can result in fines or legal consequences for hosts operating illegal short-term rentals.

In addition to zoning restrictions, short-term rental operators in Mont-Tremblant may need to obtain various licenses, permits, and approvals from the city and provincial authorities. These requirements are outlined in the following sections.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Mont-Tremblant

According to the information gathered, short-term rental operators in Mont-Tremblant are subject to specific licensing requirements at both the municipal and provincial levels.

At the municipal level, the City of Mont-Tremblant has implemented zoning restrictions that limit the operation of short-term rentals to certain areas designated for commercial or mixed-use purposes. Residential zones, particularly those with single-family homes, generally prohibit short-term rentals. Failure to comply with these zoning regulations can result in fines or legal consequences for hosts operating illegal short-term rentals.

In addition to the municipal zoning regulations, short-term rental operators in Mont-Tremblant must also obtain a registration number from the Corporation de l'industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ), the provincial tourism authority in Quebec.

To obtain a CITQ registration number, hosts must follow these steps:

• Obtain a notice of compliance from the City of Mont-Tremblant, confirming that the short-term rental operation complies with the municipality's urban planning bylaws and zoning regulations.
• Register with the CITQ and submit the required documents, including proof of at least CAD 2 million in liability insurance.
• Pay the applicable fees to complete the registration process and obtain a written certificate from the CITQ.
• Display the CITQ registration number and expiry date on their listing and renew the registration annually.

Hosts who provide short-term accommodations in their principal residence are considered "principal residence establishments," while those operating outside their principal residences are classified as "general tourist accommodation establishments." The registration process and requirements may vary slightly between these two categories.

It's important to note that failure to obtain the necessary CITQ registration or comply with the municipal zoning regulations can result in fines or legal consequences for short-term rental operators in Mont-Tremblant.

Required Documents for Mont-Tremblant Short-Term Rentals

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

Notice of Compliance from the City of Mont-Tremblant: Short-term rental operators must obtain a notice of compliance from the City of Mont-Tremblant, confirming that their rental operation complies with the municipality's urban planning bylaws and zoning regulations.

CITQ Registration and Certificate: To legally operate a short-term rental in Mont-Tremblant, hosts must register with the Corporation de l'industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ), the provincial tourism authority in Quebec. This involves submitting various documents, including:

1. Proof of at least CAD 2 million in liability insurance
2. Photos to identify the establishment
3. Property title or tenancy agreement
4. Declaration of co-ownership (if applicable)

Upon successful registration, the CITQ will issue a written certificate and registration number, which must be displayed on the rental listing and renewed annually.

Zoning Compliance: As part of the CITQ registration process, short-term rental operators must provide proof that their rental operation complies with the zoning regulations set forth by the City of Mont-Tremblant. This may involve obtaining specific documentation or permits from the municipal authorities.

Co-Ownership Declaration (if applicable): If the short-term rental property is part of a co-ownership or condominium complex, hosts may need to provide a declaration of co-ownership showing that the operation of the establishment for tourist accommodation purposes is allowed.

Safety Certificates and Inspections: Depending on the specific property and local regulations, short-term rental operators may need to provide safety certificates or undergo inspections to demonstrate compliance with fire safety, electrical, and other building code 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.

Mont-Tremblant Short-Term Rental Taxes

Operating a short-term rental in Mont-Tremblant, 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.
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 Mont-Tremblant.
4. Total Tax Rate: When combined, the total tax rate for short-term rentals in Mont-Tremblant is approximately 19%. 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 from property managers or lawyers 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 Mont-Tremblant 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, 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 Mont-Tremblant Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Based on the discussions on platforms like Reddit and Bigger Pockets, it appears that Mont-Tremblant strictly enforces its rules regarding short-term rentals, making it a challenging environment for Airbnb hosts who attempt to operate outside the regulations.

Compared to some other cities or municipalities, Mont-Tremblant is generally considered less Airbnb-friendly due to its strict enforcement of zoning restrictions and licensing requirements. Many hosts on these forums acknowledge the risks of substantial fines and legal consequences for violating the rules.

While some hosts may try to operate illegally in Mont-Tremblant, exceeding the zoning limitations or failing to obtain the necessary permits and licenses, the consensus on these platforms suggests that such practices are risky and inadvisable. The city's active enforcement efforts, including monitoring by local authorities and potential fines, serve as deterrents for many prospective hosts.

Discussions on Reddit and Bigger Pockets often advise against attempting to circumvent the regulations in Mont-Tremblant, as the potential consequences outweigh the benefits. Many users recommend exploring alternative investment strategies or locations with more permissive short-term rental regulations to avoid potential legal issues.

In summary, based on the available information and discussions on real estate forums, Mont-Tremblant is considered a city that strictly enforces its short-term rental rules, making it an unfavorable environment for Airbnb hosts looking to operate illegally or without the proper permissions. While some hosts may attempt to violate the regulations, the consensus suggests that the risks of substantial fines and legal consequences make it a challenging and inadvisable proposition.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Mont-Tremblant

Starting a short-term rental business in Mont-Tremblant requires careful planning and compliance with the city's regulations. Here are the steps to get started:

1. Conduct Market Research: Analyze the demand for short-term rentals in different areas of Mont-Tremblant, popular property types, and average pricing. Use short-term rental calculators to gather data.
2. Understand Zoning Restrictions: Review the zoning regulations in Mont-Tremblant, which generally prohibit short-term rentals in residential zones, particularly those with single-family homes. Short-term rentals may be permitted in certain commercial or mixed-use areas.
3. Obtain a Notice of Compliance: To operate a short-term rental legally, you must obtain a notice of compliance from the City of Mont-Tremblant, confirming that your rental operation complies with the municipality's urban planning bylaws and zoning regulations.
4. Register with CITQ: Register with the Corporation de l'industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ), the provincial tourism authority in Quebec, and obtain a registration number. This involves submitting various documents, including proof of liability insurance, property title, and the notice of compliance from the city.
5. Prepare Your Property: Ensure that your short-term rental property meets all necessary safety standards, including fire safety regulations, electrical and gas safety requirements, and accessibility standards. Make any necessary repairs or renovations.
6. Comply with Co-Ownership Rules: If your property is part of a co-ownership or condominium complex, review the declaration of co-ownership to ensure that short-term rentals are allowed. Obtain any necessary approvals or declarations from the co-ownership syndicate.
7. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses: While Mont-Tremblant does not currently require a specific license for short-term rentals, you may need to obtain permits or licenses related to operating a home-based business or commercial enterprise, depending on the scale and nature of your rental operation.
8. 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).
9. Create a Compelling Listing:Develop a detailed listing with high-quality photos, descriptions of amenities and features, and information about the local area. Set competitive pricing based on market research.
10. Market Your Listing: Promote your listing through social media platforms, paid advertising on Airbnb, and other channels, and leverage effective marketing strategies to attract guests.
11. Stay Updated on Regulations: Continuously monitor any updates or changes to Mont-Tremblant's regulations and zoning restrictions for short-term rentals, as well as any new provincial or federal requirements that may be introduced.

It's important to note that the regulations and requirements for short-term rentals in Mont-Tremblant are subject to change, and potential hosts should stay informed and seek professional advice to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and ordinances.

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

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

Town Planning Department

1. Geneviève Demers, Director
   Phone: 819-425-8614
2. Stéphane Martin, Assistant Manager
   Phone: 819-425-8614
3. Catherine Liboiron, Coordinator - Citizen Services
   Phone: 819-425-8614
   Email: cliboiron@villedemont-tremblant.qc.ca

Urban Planning Inspectors

For inquiries about permits, certificates, and zoning compliance:

Phone: 819-425-8614

Quebec Tourism Ministry

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

The Town Planning Department and the Urban Planning Inspectors at the City of Mont-Tremblant are the primary points of contact for inquiries related to short-term rental regulations, zoning, and permitting requirements within the city.

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 professional familiar with Mont-Tremblant's regulations to ensure full compliance with all applicable laws and ordinances.

What Do Airbnb Hosts in Mont-Tremblant on Reddit and Bigger Pockets Think about Local Regulations?

Many Reddit users acknowledge the strict zoning regulations in Mont-Tremblant, which generally prohibit short-term rentals in residential areas, particularly those with single-family homes. Short-term rentals may be permitted in certain commercial or mixed-use zones.

Some users have shared experiences of being offered rentals or sublets in Mont-Tremblant that explicitly prohibited short-term stays, highlighting the enforcement of these regulations.

Overall, the sentiment on Reddit suggests that while short-term rentals are operating in Mont-Tremblant, hosts must be cautious and comply with the zoning restrictions to avoid potential fines or legal consequences.

Discussions on Bigger Pockets highlight the importance of thoroughly researching local laws, zoning restrictions, and regulations before investing in short-term rental properties in Mont-Tremblant.

Users advise exercising caution when operating short-term rentals in areas with strict regulations, as the risks of fines or legal consequences can be significant if the rules are violated.

Some users suggest exploring alternative investment strategies or locations with more permissive short-term rental regulations to avoid potential issues in areas like Mont-Tremblant, where the rules are strictly enforced.

There is a general acknowledgment that while short-term rentals can be profitable, the regulatory environment plays a crucial role in determining the viability and potential risks of such investments in a particular area.

In summary, based on the discussions on Reddit and Bigger Pockets, Airbnb hosts and potential investors in Mont-Tremblant recognize the strict zoning regulations and the need for compliance to avoid legal consequences. Many advise thoroughly researching local rules and being prepared to adapt to evolving regulations to ensure the viability of short-term rental investments in the area.

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.