Saint-Lambert Short-Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

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

Saint-Lambert, a suburb of Montreal, has specific zoning and licensing requirements for short-term rentals that property owners must follow. Here's what you need to know about the rules and regulations for operating an Airbnb or vacation rental in Saint-Lambert.

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Saint-Lambert

To legally operate a short-term rental (less than 31 days) in Saint-Lambert, the property must be zoned to allow for tourist accommodation use. Many residential zones do not permit short-term rentals. You can check your property's zoning using the city's online zoning map.

If your property is zoned for short-term rentals, you'll need to obtain a permit from the city. The permit application requires providing various documents, including:

• Property title
• Proof of civil liability insurance
• Photos of the property
• Proof of compliance with the city's zoning bylaws
• Declaration of co-ownership showing short-term rentals are allowed (for condos)

Short-term rental permits must be renewed annually. Operators are required to collect and remit lodging taxes to the provincial government.

Saint-Lambert has been cracking down on illegal short-term rentals in recent years. Bylaw officers proactively investigate properties suspected of operating without a permit. Violators may face fines of up to $2,000 per day. Residents can report suspected illegal rentals to the city.

The strict regulations aim to preserve housing affordability and availability for residents. As one Redditor noted, "neighbors, not tourists!" is the city's approach. Some owners are frustrated by the rules, but most understand the need to protect long-term rental stock.

While Saint-Lambert is less favorable to Airbnb than some cities, short-term rentals can still be profitable for owners who follow the rules. Researching the regulations, obtaining proper permits, and working with experienced local professionals is key to success. Trying to skirt the bylaws is very risky given the city's active enforcement.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Saint-Lambert

To legally operate a short-term rental (less than 31 days) in Saint-Lambert, property owners must obtain a permit from the city. The permit application process requires submitting various documents, including:

1. Proof of property ownership (title deed)
2. Proof of civil liability insurance covering rental activities
3. Photos of the interior and exterior of the property
4. A declaration that the property complies with the city's zoning and building code requirements
5. For condos, a declaration from the co-ownership syndicate confirming short-term rentals are allowed

The city reviews permit applications to ensure the property is eligible for short-term rental use based on zoning. Properties located in purely residential zones are generally not permitted to operate as short-term rentals.

Short-term rental permits in Saint-Lambert must be renewed annually. There is a fee to obtain and renew the permit. As part of the renewal process, the city may inspect the property to verify ongoing compliance with regulations.

Operators are also required to collect and remit a 3.5% lodging tax on behalf of the provincial government. This tax applies to all short-term rentals across Quebec.

In recent years, Saint-Lambert has increased enforcement efforts against illegal short-term rentals operating without a permit. The city proactively investigates properties suspected of violating the regulations. Owners caught renting on a short-term basis without a valid permit may face fines of up to $2,000 per day of non-compliance.

Residents can report suspected illegal short-term rentals in their neighborhood to the city's bylaw department. Complaints from neighbors about noise, parking issues, and other nuisances are taken seriously and can trigger an investigation.

While the strict permit requirements and enforcement have frustrated some property owners, the city says the regulations are needed to protect housing affordability and quality of life for residents. Officials want to prevent residential properties from being converted into de facto hotels.

Obtaining a short-term rental permit is a critical step for Saint-Lambert property owners looking to list their home on Airbnb or other platforms. Failing to secure a permit can result in stiff financial penalties. Hosts should carefully review the city's requirements and gather all necessary documents before submitting their permit application.

Required Documents for Saint-Lambert Short-Term Rentals

To apply for a short-term rental permit in Saint-Lambert, property owners must submit the following documents to the city:

1. Completed permit application form
2. Proof of property ownership (e.g., title deed)
3. Proof of civil liability insurance covering rental activities (minimum $2 million coverage)
4. Photos of the interior and exterior of the property
5. Floor plan of the property showing the layout and room dimensions
6. Site plan showing the location of the property and any parking spaces
7. A declaration signed by the owner stating that the property complies with all applicable zoning, building, fire safety, and health regulations
8. For condos, a declaration from the co-ownership syndicate (HOA) confirming that short-term rentals are permitted under the building's bylaws
9. If the owner is a corporation, a copy of the company's registration documents
10. Payment of the permit application fee

The city may request additional documents or information as part of the review process. Applications are typically processed within 30 days, although processing times may be longer during peak periods.

Once issued, the short-term rental permit must be prominently displayed inside the property. The permit number must also be included on any online listings for the property.

It's important to note that obtaining a short-term rental permit does not exempt owners from complying with other applicable laws and regulations, such as building codes, fire safety standards, and health requirements. The city may inspect the property before issuing the permit and at any time during the permit's validity to ensure ongoing compliance.

Owners must also ensure they have appropriate insurance coverage for their short-term rental activities. Standard homeowners or landlord insurance policies may not cover damages or liability arising from paying guests. Owners should speak with their insurance provider to obtain the necessary coverage.

Failing to provide the required documents or operating without a valid permit can result in significant fines and legal action by the city. Saint-Lambert has been increasing enforcement efforts against illegal short-term rentals in recent years. Owners should ensure they have all necessary paperwork in order before listing their property for rent.

Saint-Lambert Short-Term Rental Taxes

In addition to obtaining a permit, short-term rental operators in Saint-Lambert are required to collect and remit taxes on their rental income. There are two main taxes that apply:

1. Provincial Sales Tax (PST): The Quebec sales tax of 9.975% applies to all short-term rental accommodations in the province. Operators must register for a PST number with Revenu Québec and charge this tax on the rental price.
2. Lodging Tax: The City of Saint-Lambert charges a 3.5% lodging tax on all short-term rentals. This tax is in addition to the PST and must be collected from guests and remitted to the city on a quarterly basis.

Operators are responsible for collecting these taxes from their guests and filing regular tax returns with the appropriate authorities. Failure to comply with the tax requirements can result in penalties and interest charges.

It's important to note that short-term rental income is also subject to federal and provincial income taxes. Operators must report their rental income on their personal or corporate tax returns and may be eligible to claim certain expenses to offset the income.

Proper record-keeping is essential for short-term rental operators to ensure they are meeting all their tax obligations. This includes keeping track of rental income, expenses, and taxes collected from guests.

Some short-term rental platforms like Airbnb offer integrated tax collection services in certain jurisdictions. However, it's unclear if these services are available for Saint-Lambert rentals. Operators should check with their platform and the city to confirm their tax collection and remittance responsibilities.

Given the complexity of the tax rules for short-term rentals, many operators choose to work with an accountant or tax professional to ensure compliance. This can provide peace of mind and help avoid costly mistakes.

Ultimately, taxes are a key consideration for anyone looking to operate a short-term rental in Saint-Lambert. Understanding and complying with all applicable tax laws is critical to running a successful and legal rental business in the city. Failure to do so can result in significant financial and legal consequences.

Canada Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

While each province and municipality has its own specific regulations for short-term rentals, there are some common trends emerging across Canada as jurisdictions grapple with the impacts of the growing vacation rental market.

Quebec has had strict provincial regulations on short-term rentals for several years. Hosts must obtain a classification certificate from the provincial tourist accommodation corporation (CITQ) and include their registration number on all listings. As of 2023, short-term rental platforms like Airbnb are prohibited from publishing any listings without a valid registration number. Fines for non-compliance can reach up to $50,000.

At the federal level, the government has proposed changes to the Income Tax Act that would deny the deduction of expenses incurred on "non-compliant" short-term rentals, effective January 1, 2024. A non-compliant short-term rental is defined as a property rented for less than 90 days that either violates local zoning rules or lacks required permits and licenses. This measure aims to discourage the conversion of long-term housing stock to short-term rentals.

The common threads across these varied regulations include:

1. Requiring licenses or registration for short-term rental operators
2. Restricting short-term rentals to primary residences in many areas
3. Increasing fines and enforcement for illegal short-term rentals
4. Applying hotel or accommodation taxes to short-term rental bookings
5. Obligating short-term rental platforms to validate compliance of listings

As Canada's short-term rental market matures, a more robust regulatory framework is taking shape. While the specifics vary, the overall trend is towards tighter restrictions and oversight of vacation rentals. Hosts and guests alike need to stay informed of evolving rules to ensure they are in compliance. With the proper planning and due diligence, short-term rentals can still be a viable option for travelers and a profitable venture for property owners across much of Canada.

Does Saint-Lambert Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Based on discussions from Airbnb hosts on Bigger Pockets and Reddit, Saint-Lambert is one of the least Airbnb-friendly cities in Canada and strictly enforces its short-term rental regulations. The city takes a hardline approach compared to other municipalities.

Saint-Lambert proactively investigates properties suspected of operating as illegal short-term rentals. The city encourages residents to report any suspected illegal rentals in their neighborhood. Bylaw officers will quickly follow up on complaints and issue fines of up to $2,000 per day to non-compliant operators.

Several hosts on the Bigger Pockets forums reported receiving large fines after neighbors complained about their Saint-Lambert Airbnb listings. One host said they were fined $10,000 for operating without a permit, even though they were unaware of the city's strict rules. The fines and threat of legal action prompted them to take down their listing.

Reddit users also warn that Saint-Lambert is very unfriendly to Airbnb compared to Montreal and other nearby cities. One Redditor said "Saint-Lambert is known for cracking down hard on hosts. Don't even think about trying to get around the permit rules unless you want to pay big fines." Another commented "The city really prioritizes housing for residents over tourists in neighborhoods. Inspectors will shut you down fast if you're operating illegally."

While some hosts still attempt to skirt the rules, Saint-Lambert's steep fines and active enforcement make it very risky. The city's goal is to prevent residential properties from being converted into de facto hotels. Officials believe curbing short-term rentals is necessary to preserve housing affordability and neighborhood character.

Ultimately, Saint-Lambert is one of the toughest cities in Canada for Airbnb hosts. Unlike Montreal and Quebec City, which have been more welcoming to short-term rentals, Saint-Lambert has taken an aggressive enforcement approach. Hosts who violate the rules are very likely to face financial and legal consequences. Operating under the radar is nearly impossible given the city's dedicated enforcement efforts and tip line for reporting illegal rentals. Hosts looking to enter the Saint-Lambert market must carefully comply with all zoning, licensing and tax requirements to avoid problems.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Saint-Lambert

Starting a short-term rental business in Saint-Lambert can be profitable, but it's critical to follow the city's strict regulations to avoid fines and legal issues. Here are the key steps to get started:

1. Check your property's zoning to confirm short-term rentals are allowed. Many residential zones in Saint-Lambert prohibit rentals under 31 days. You can verify your zoning on the city's website or by contacting the urban planning department.
2. If your property is eligible, apply for a short-term rental permit from the city. You'll need to provide proof of ownership, insurance, floor plans, site plans, photos, and other documents. The permit must be renewed annually.
3. Register with Revenu Québec for a provincial sales tax (PST) number. You'll need to collect the 9.975% PST from guests and remit it to the province.
4. Register with the City of Saint-Lambert to collect the 3.5% lodging tax. This tax must be collected from guests and remitted to the city quarterly.
5. Obtain appropriate insurance coverage for your short-term rental operations. Standard home or landlord insurance usually doesn't cover short-term rentals. Consult with an insurance broker to get proper liability and property coverage.
6. If your property is a condo, verify that the building bylaws allow short-term rentals. You may need permission from the condo board or homeowners association before proceeding.
7. Set up your property with furniture, amenities, and safety equipment required for short-term rentals. This may include fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, first aid kits, etc.
8. Create a detailed property listing on Airbnb, VRBO, or other short-term rental platforms. Be sure to include your permit number and collect all required taxes from guests.
9. Establish a system for managing inquiries, bookings, check-ins, cleaning and maintenance. You can manage this yourself or hire a property management service.
10. Keep detailed records of all rental income and expenses for tax purposes. Short-term rental income is subject to federal and provincial income taxes. Consult an accountant to ensure you're in compliance.

By following these steps and complying with all regulations, you can launch a successful short-term rental business in Saint-Lambert. However, given the city's strict enforcement, it's essential to do your due diligence and stay up-to-date on any rule changes. Joining local host groups and working with experienced professionals can help you navigate the complex regulatory landscape and avoid costly mistakes.

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

If you have questions about short-term rental regulations or zoning for your property in Saint-Lambert, the best department to contact is Urban Planning, Permits and Inspection. They handle all matters related to zoning, permits, and enforcement of the city's short-term rental rules.

Contact information for the Urban Planning, Permits, and Inspection department:

Address: 2035-C Victoria Avenue, Saint-Lambert, QC J4P 2R6
Phone: 450-672-4444
Email: urbanisme@saint-lambert.ca
Website: https://www.saint-lambert.ca/en/contact-directory/urban-planning-permits-and-inspection

The Urban Planning department can help you:

1. Determine if your property is zoned to allow short-term rentals
2. Verify if your property meets the city's definition of a primary residence
3. Guide you through the process of obtaining a short-term rental permit
4. Answer questions about building codes, occupancy limits, and safety requirements
5. Investigate complaints about illegal short-term rentals operating without a permit

If you want to report a suspected illegal short-term rental in your neighborhood, you can file a complaint with the Urban Planning department by phone or email. You can also report illegal tourist residences to Revenu Québec at 1-855-208-1131.

For general questions about the City of Saint-Lambert's activities and services, you can contact the main customer service line at 450-672-4444 or visit https://www.saint-lambert.ca/en/contact-us.

Before listing your property on Airbnb or other short-term rental platforms, it's highly recommended to contact the Urban Planning, Permits and Inspection department to ensure you are in full compliance with the city's regulations. They can provide guidance on the specific zoning and permit requirements for your property. Failure to comply with the rules can result in significant fines and legal action, so it's important to do your due diligence upfront.

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

Airbnb hosts in Saint-Lambert have expressed frustration with the city's strict short-term rental regulations on Reddit and Bigger Pockets forums. Here are a few key takeaways:

On the Montreal subreddit, user u/mtlhost explained that Airbnb is actually illegal in the Ville-Marie borough, which encompasses downtown Montreal and Old Montreal. Hosts advise visitors to avoid using Airbnb in these areas and opt for hotels instead, as the units may be unregulated and unsafe.

Bigger Pockets user @JoeVastola asked about Airbnb laws in New York City, noting that some cities have very strict regulations. In response, user @StefanSlavkovic mentioned that it's essential for hosts to consider local rules, as some areas like Pittsburgh may have stricter laws than others. Hosts need to crunch the numbers carefully to ensure profitability while remaining compliant.

Reddit user u/vqql shared an article about how British Columbia's new short-term rental restrictions are worrying tourism groups. Hosts like Ralph and Tina Gerlitsch say they've had to rethink their retirement plans due to the 2024 law limiting rentals to principal residences in most communities. Redditors showed little sympathy, arguing that protecting long-term rental stock is more important than Airbnb profits.

On the r/boston subreddit, user u/bostonvisitor asked why hotels are so expensive in the city. Commenters noted that Boston hotels lobbied heavily for strict regulations and taxes on Airbnb, so short-term rental prices are now often the same or higher than hotels. The lack of supply relative to demand keeps both hotel and Airbnb rates high.

Bigger Pockets user @JoeS said one of the biggest reasons he hasn't started Airbnb is the high upfront cost to furnish a property, which can take years to recoup. Other users agreed that location and regulations are the key factors to consider, but if done right, short-term rentals can be very lucrative.

Overall, hosts on Reddit and Bigger Pockets emphasize the importance of carefully reviewing local short-term rental regulations before investing in an Airbnb property. Cities like Saint-Lambert have strict rules that can make it very difficult to operate profitably. While some hosts are frustrated by the restrictions, most agree that the regulations are aimed at protecting housing affordability and availability for residents, which is a valid concern. Successful Airbnb investing requires thorough due diligence and compliance to avoid fines and legal issues.

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.