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

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Regina

Regina, the capital city of Saskatchewan, has seen a surge in short-term rental listings on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo in recent years. However, before diving into this business, it's crucial to understand the local regulations surrounding short-term rentals.

In October 2020, the City of Regina passed a bylaw to regulate short-term accommodations (STAs), which came into effect on May 1, 2021. This bylaw requires all short-term rental operators to obtain a license from the city and comply with specific rules.

To start a short-term rental business in Regina, property owners must follow these key steps:

• Determine if the property qualifies as a principal residence or a secondary property. Principal residences are where the owner lives for at least 8 months of the year, while secondary properties are investment properties or additional homes owned by the operator.
• Apply for the appropriate short-term rental license. Principal residence licenses cost $100 annually, while secondary property licenses are $300 per year.
• Ensure the property meets all safety requirements, including working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and emergency contact information posted for guests.
• Schedule and pass a fire inspection conducted by the Regina Fire & Protective Services for secondary properties.
• Obtain any necessary permits or approvals from your condominium corporation or homeowners' association if the property is part of a multi-unit building.
• Display the short-term rental license number in all advertising and marketing materials, including online listings.
• Collect and remit the required taxes on rental income, including the 4% Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT).

It's important to note that the City of Regina has implemented a cap on the number of new secondary property licenses issued if the vacancy rate drops below 3%. This measure aims to balance short-term rentals' growth with long-term housing options' availability.

Additionally, some residential areas may have zoning restrictions or covenants that prohibit or limit short-term rentals, so it's essential to research and comply with any applicable rules specific to your property's location.

While navigating the regulations may seem daunting, many hosts in Regina have successfully obtained the necessary licenses and operate legally within the city's framework. Consulting with local real estate professionals, joining online forums, and staying up-to-date with changes to the bylaws can help ensure a smooth start to your long-term rental business in Regina.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Regina

In Regina, all short-term rental operators are required to obtain a license from the city to legally rent out their properties on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo. This licensing requirement is part of the city's efforts to regulate the growing short-term rental market and address housing availability, neighborhood character, and public safety concerns.

To apply for a short-term rental license in Regina, property owners must follow these steps:

1. Determine if the property qualifies as a principal residence or a secondary property. Principal residences are where the owner lives for at least 8 months of the year, while secondary properties are investment properties or additional homes owned by the operator.
2. Submit a completed application form providing detailed information about the property, the owner, and the intended rental arrangement.
3. Provide proof of ownership or permission from the owner to operate a short-term rental on the property.
4. For secondary properties, schedule and pass a fire inspection conducted by the Regina Fire & Protective Services to ensure compliance with safety standards.
5. If the property is part of a multi-unit building, obtain any necessary approvals or permits from the condominium corporation or homeowners' association.
6. Pay the applicable license fee of $100 annually for principal residences and $300 annually for secondary properties.

Once the application is approved, the property owner will receive a short-term rental license from the city. This license must be renewed annually, and the license number must be displayed in all advertising and marketing materials, including online listings on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo.

It's important to note that the City of Regina has implemented a cap on the number of new secondary property licenses issued if the vacancy rate for long-term rentals drops below 3%. This measure aims to balance the growth of short-term rentals with the availability of long-term housing options in the city.

Failure to obtain a short-term rental license or comply with the city's regulations can result in fines and legal consequences. The city has the authority to conduct inspections and issue penalties for violations.

While navigating the licensing process may seem daunting for some property owners, many hosts in Regina have successfully obtained the necessary licenses and operate legally within the city's framework. Consulting with local real estate professionals, joining online forums, and staying up-to-date with changes to the bylaws can help ensure compliance and smooth operation of a long-term rental business in Regina.

Required Documents for Regina Short-Term Rentals

When applying for a short-term rental license in Regina, property owners will need to provide several documents to demonstrate their eligibility and compliance with local regulations. The specific requirements may vary depending on the applicant's situation, but generally include:

1. Completed application form, which can be obtained from the City of Regina's Licensing Division.
2. Proof of property ownership, such as a title deed or property tax bill, confirming the applicant's legal right to rent out the property on a short-term basis.
3. Government-issued photo identification, such as a driver's license or passport, for the property owner or the primary applicant if the owner is a corporation.
4. If the applicant is not the property owner, a notarized letter of permission from the registered owner is required, granting the applicant the right to operate a short-term rental on the property.
5. For secondary properties (investment properties or additional homes owned by the operator), proof of passing a fire inspection conducted by the Regina Fire & Protective Services.
6. If the property is located in a multi-unit building, such as a condominium or apartment complex, written approval or a no-objection certificate from the building management or homeowners' association may be required.
7. Proof of appropriate insurance coverage for the property, including liability insurance to protect guests in case of accidents or injuries during their stay.
8. Payment of the applicable license fees, which are $100 annually for principal residences and $300 annually for secondary properties.
9. Depending on the property's specific characteristics and intended use, additional documents such as floor plans, emergency contact information, or proof of compliance with accessibility standards may also be necessary.

It's important to note that these requirements are subject to change, and the City of Regina may request additional documentation on a case-by-case basis. Applicants should contact the Licensing Division directly or visit the city's website for the most up-to-date information on short-term rental permit requirements.

Failing to provide all mandatory documents could result in delays in permit approval or rejection of the application. Property owners should allow ample time to gather the necessary paperwork before their anticipated rental start date to avoid any disruptions to their business plans.

Regina Short-Term Rental Taxes

When operating a short-term rental in Regina, Saskatchewan, it's crucial to understand and comply with the local tax regulations. In addition to the licensing fees, short-term rental operators in Regina are required to collect and remit the Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) on their rental income.

The MAT is a 4% tax that applies to all short-term accommodations, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals listed on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo. This tax is charged on the total rental amount, including any cleaning fees or other additional charges.

As a short-term rental host in Regina, you are responsible for collecting the MAT from your guests and remitting it to the city on a regular basis. Failure to comply with this requirement can result in penalties and legal consequences.

To ensure compliance with Regina's short-term rental tax regulations, hosts should:

1. Register their short-term rental property with the City of Regina and obtain a Municipal Accommodation Tax account number.
2. Clearly communicate the 4% MAT to guests as a separate line item on their booking invoice or receipt.
3. Collect the MAT from guests at the time of payment and hold it in trust until remitting it to the city.
4. File MAT returns and remit the collected taxes to the City of Regina's Finance Department on a quarterly basis.
5. Keep accurate records of all short-term rental transactions, including rental income, taxes collected, and taxes remitted, for a minimum of seven years.

It's important to note that the MAT is separate from the income tax that short-term rental hosts may be required to pay on their rental income. Hosts should consult with a tax professional to understand their income tax obligations and potential deductions related to their short-term rental business.

By understanding and complying with Regina's short-term rental tax regulations, hosts can avoid potential penalties and contribute to the city's tourism and economic development initiatives. The MAT helps fund various municipal services and infrastructure improvements that benefit both residents and visitors to Regina.

Saskatchewan Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

While individual municipalities in Saskatchewan have the authority to regulate short-term rentals (STRs) within their jurisdictions, some province-wide rules and considerations apply across the province. These Saskatchewan-wide regulations aim to provide a general framework for the operation of STRs while still allowing local governments the flexibility to tailor their bylaws to the specific needs of their communities.

One key legislation impacting STRs across Saskatchewan is The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 and The Residential Tenancies Regulations, 2007. These laws govern the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants in residential rental properties. The Act and Regulations generally do not apply to short-term rentals of less than 28 consecutive days, as these are considered temporary accommodations rather than tenancies. However, if a guest stays for 28 days or more, the Act and Regulations may come into effect, granting them certain protections as tenants.

Another important consideration for STR operators in Saskatchewan is taxation. Income earned from renting out a property on a short-term basis is generally considered taxable income by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Hosts are responsible for reporting this income on their tax returns and may be eligible to claim certain expenses as deductions. Additionally, the Provincial Sales Tax (PST) may apply to STR bookings, depending on factors such as the host's total annual revenue and the nature of the accommodation provided.

In terms of safety standards, the Saskatchewan Building Code and Fire Code set out minimum requirements for all residential properties, including those used as STRs. Hosts must ensure that their properties comply with these codes, which cover aspects such as fire safety, means of egress, and structural integrity. Failure to meet these standards can result in fines and legal consequences.

Accessibility is another area where Saskatchewan-wide regulations come into play. The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code prohibits housing discrimination based on race, religion, disability, and family status. STR hosts must be mindful of this legislation and ensure that their booking practices and guest policies are non-discriminatory.

While not a formal regulation, it's also important for STR hosts in Saskatchewan to consider their operations' potential impact on long-term rental housing availability. Some municipalities have expressed concerns about the proliferation of STRs contributing to housing shortages and rising rental costs, and may implement measures to address these issues.

It's important to note that these Saskatchewan-wide rules and considerations exist alongside the specific STR bylaws enacted by individual municipalities. Hosts must comply with the provincial and local regulations of their properties. As the STR landscape continues to evolve, it's crucial for operators to stay informed about any changes to provincial or municipal rules that may impact their businesses.

By understanding and adhering to the Saskatchewan-wide regulations for short-term rentals, hosts can contribute to a well-regulated and thriving STR market that balances the needs of various stakeholders, including guests, residents, and local communities. As always, seeking guidance from legal professionals and municipal authorities can help ensure full compliance with all applicable laws and bylaws.

Does Regina Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Based on discussions from Airbnb hosts in Regina on Reddit and Bigger Pockets, it appears that enforcement of short-term rental regulations has been somewhat inconsistent so far. While Regina does have rules in place requiring hosts to obtain a license and limiting rentals to primary residences, many operators report being able to fly under the radar without facing serious consequences.

On the Regina subreddit, several hosts mentioned that they have been running unlicensed Airbnbs for years without any issues from the city. They suggest that enforcement efforts seem to be complaint-driven rather than proactive, meaning that as long as neighbors don't raise concerns, the likelihood of getting caught is relatively low.

Compared to major cities like Toronto or Vancouver, which have been cracking down more aggressively on short-term rentals, Regina is currently a bit more lax and Airbnb-friendly. The consensus among hosts is that while the city has regulations on the books, they are not strictly monitoring compliance across the board.

However, this doesn't mean that short-term rental operators in Regina can assume they'll be able to evade the rules indefinitely. As one host on Bigger Pockets cautioned, all it takes is one disgruntled neighbor or a shift in the political winds for enforcement to ramp up quickly.

The general sentiment seems to be that Regina's current approach to short-term rentals is "don't ask, don't tell." Many hosts operate without licenses and bet the city won't proactively come after them. However, they also acknowledge the inherent risk in this long-term strategy.

Ultimately, while Regina may not be as stringent about enforcing its short-term rental rules as some other Canadian cities, hosts should not assume non-compliance is a viable approach indefinitely. The prudent course of action is still to follow regulations, obtain proper licensing, and be a respectful operator. But in practice, it seems many hosts are skirting the rules for now and hoping for the best.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Regina

If you're interested in starting a short-term rental business in Regina, Saskatchewan, here are the key steps to follow:

1. Determine if your property qualifies as a principal residence or a secondary property. Principal residences are where the owner lives for at least 8 months of the year, while secondary properties are investment properties or additional homes owned by the operator.
2. Research and understand Regina's short-term rental regulations. Familiarize yourself with the licensing requirements, zoning restrictions, and operating standards outlined in the city's bylaws.
3. Apply for the appropriate short-term rental license. Principal residence licenses cost $100 annually, while secondary property licenses are $300 per year. Submit the completed application form and required documents such as proof of ownership and government-issued identification.
4. Ensure your property meets all safety requirements. This includes having working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and emergency contact information posted for guests.
5. Schedule and pass a fire inspection conducted by the Regina Fire & Protective Services before obtaining your license for secondary properties.
6. If your property is part of a multi-unit building, obtain any necessary permits or approvals from your condominium corporation or homeowners' association.
7. Once licensed, display your license number in all advertising and marketing materials, including online listings on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo.
8. Set up systems to collect and remit the required 4% Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) on your rental income to the City of Regina.
9. Create an attractive short-term rental listing showcasing your property's unique features and amenities. Use high-quality photos and detailed descriptions to attract potential guests.
10. Establish clear house rules and guest communication protocols. Develop a plan for cleaning and maintaining your property between guest stays.
11. Stay informed about any changes to Regina's short-term rental regulations and ensure ongoing compliance. Renew your license annually.
12. Consider joining local host communities or online forums to connect with other short-term rental operators in Regina, share best practices, and stay up-to-date with industry trends.

By following these steps and being a responsible and proactive host, you can build a successful short-term rental business in Regina. Remember that regulations can change over time, so staying informed and adapting as needed is essential. With dedication and attention to detail, you can create a profitable and enjoyable short-term rental experience for both you and your guests.

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

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information about short-term rental regulations and zoning requirements in Regina, it's best to contact the city government directly. Here are some key departments and their contact details:

1. City of Regina Licensing Division

Address: 1700 Elphinstone Street, Regina, SK S4P 2Z6
Phone: 306-777-7000
Email: licensing@regina.ca
Website: www.regina.ca/bylaws-permits-licenses/licenses/short-term-accommodations/

2. City of Regina Planning & Development Services

Address: 1965 Osler Street, Regina, SK S4P 1W7
Phone: 306-777-7551
Email: planningdevelopment@regina.ca
Website: www.regina.ca/business-development/planning-development/

3. City of Regina Fire & Protective Services

Address: 1700 Elphinstone Street, Regina, SK S4P 2Z6
Phone: 306-777-7000
Email: fire@regina.ca
Website: www.regina.ca/home-property/fire-services/

These departments should be able to provide guidance on any permits, licenses, or zoning approvals needed to operate a short-term rental in Regina. They can also clarify the specific regulations around hosting platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo.

Another helpful resource could be the Association of Regina Realtors:

Address: 1701 Park Street, Regina, SK S4N 6B2
Phone: 306-791-2700
Email: info@reginarealtors.com
Website: www.reginarealtors.com

The Association of Regina Realtors represents real estate professionals in the region and may have insights into how short-term rental regulations are being interpreted and enforced from the perspective of property owners and investors.

For the most definitive answers, it's always best to go straight to the municipal authorities. Be prepared to explain the details of your short-term rental plans, including the type of property, target guests, and expected rental frequency. With their guidance, you can ensure you are operating in full compliance with Regina's rules.

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

Based on discussions from Airbnb hosts in Regina on Reddit and Bigger Pockets, opinions seem mixed regarding the city's short-term rental regulations:

Some hosts on the Regina subreddit expressed frustration with the licensing process, citing the fees and requirements as overly burdensome for small-scale operators. They feel that the city's regulations, such as obtaining a fire safety plan and submitting to property inspections, are excessive for those simply renting out a spare room or basement suite.

However, other hosts acknowledged the need for reasonable regulations to maintain neighborhood character and address concerns about housing availability. A few Reddit users supported the city's primary residence requirement, arguing that it helps prevent investors from buying up multiple properties solely for short-term rentals, which could exacerbate housing shortages.

On Bigger Pockets, one host shared their experience navigating Regina's licensing system, describing it as confusing and lacking clear guidance from city officials. They emphasized the importance of thoroughly researching the requirements independently rather than relying solely on information provided by the authorities.

Another common theme across both platforms is the need to carefully review building-specific rules, even if the city allows short-term rentals. Several hosts mentioned issues with condominium boards or homeowners associations prohibiting rentals under 30 days, which they were unaware of before starting to host.

Despite the regulatory challenges, some hosts on Reddit and Bigger Pockets expressed optimism about the potential for short-term rentals in Regina, citing the city's growing tourism market and the opportunity to offer alternative accommodations to traditional hotels.

While some Regina hosts appreciate the city's efforts to regulate short-term rentals and mitigate their impact on neighborhoods, others find the licensing process overly burdensome. The primary residence requirement, in particular, seems to be a point of contention – supported by those who prioritize housing stability but criticized by hosts who believe it limits their property rights and investment opportunities.

As Regina continues to refine its short-term rental rules, engaging hosts in the policy-making process and considering their diverse perspectives could help create an effective and equitable regulatory framework.

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.