Vaudreuil-Dorion Short-Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

What are Short-Term Rental (Airbnb, VRBO) Regulations in Vaudreuil-Dorion, Quebec?

Short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb and VRBO have become increasingly popular in recent years. However, many cities and municipalities have enacted regulations around operating short-term rentals. If you're considering starting a short-term rental business in Vaudreuil-Dorion, Quebec, it's important to understand the local rules and requirements.

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Vaudreuil-Dorion

Under Quebec's Tourist Accommodation Act, anyone who wants to provide accommodation to tourists for periods of 31 days or less must have a registration number issued by the Corporation de l'industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ). To obtain a registration number in Vaudreuil-Dorion, hosts must:

• Obtain a notice of compliance signed by the municipality confirming the short-term rental complies with local zoning bylaws
• Register with the CITQ and submit required documents, including proof of at least $2 million CAD in liability insurance
• Pay a registration fee and annual renewal fee to the CITQ

The CITQ will then issue a registration certificate valid for 12 months that must be posted on the building. Hosts are required to display their registration number and expiry date on any short-term rental listing.

In addition to provincial registration, Vaudreuil-Dorion has its own municipal bylaws that may apply to short-term rentals. For example, the city prohibits using a property for commercial purposes in zones designated as residential. Short-term rental hosts should carefully review the city's zoning bylaws to ensure compliance.

Vaudreuil-Dorion also has regulations around issues like parking, noise, and property standards that short-term rental operators must follow. Failure to comply with municipal bylaws can result in fines.

Many condo buildings and homeowners associations in Vaudreuil-Dorion restrict or prohibit short-term rentals as well. It's critical for prospective hosts to review their condo declaration or HOA rules before listing a property on Airbnb or VRBO.

Despite the regulatory hurdles, demand for short-term rentals remains strong in Vaudreuil-Dorion and surrounding areas. With the proper registration, insurance, and adherence to local rules, operating a short-term rental can be a viable business. However, some real estate investors report the short-term rental market has become more challenging and saturated in recent years.

In summary, while short-term rentals are legal in Vaudreuil-Dorion, hosts must comply with provincial registration requirements and municipal zoning and property bylaws. Carefully research the applicable regulations and condo/HOA restrictions before starting an Airbnb or VRBO.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Vaudreuil-Dorion

To legally operate a short-term rental (under 31 days) in Vaudreuil-Dorion, hosts must obtain a registration number from the Corporation de l'industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ). The process involves:

1. Obtaining a notice of compliance from the City of Vaudreuil-Dorion confirming the short-term rental complies with municipal zoning bylaws. This requires submitting documents like the property title, photos, and proof of liability insurance to the city.
2. Registering with the CITQ by submitting the notice of compliance and required documents, including proof of at least $2 million CAD in liability insurance. Hosts renting their primary residence use a different registration form than those renting a secondary property.
3. Paying a registration fee to the CITQ and an annual renewal fee thereafter.

The CITQ will issue a registration certificate valid for 12 months that must be posted on the building. Hosts are required to display their registration number and expiry date on any short-term rental listing.

It's critical to review Vaudreuil-Dorion's zoning bylaws before applying, as short-term rentals are prohibited in certain residential zones. Many condo buildings also restrict short-term rentals in their declarations of co-ownership. Hosts must provide evidence that short-term renting is permitted in order to register.

Failure to comply with the registration requirement or municipal bylaws can result in fines. Hosts are responsible for collecting and remitting various lodging taxes. Additional permits may be required for certain types of renovations or additions related to the short-term rental.

In summary, while it is legal to operate a short-term rental in Vaudreuil-Dorion, hosts must navigate a number of regulatory requirements at both the provincial and municipal levels. Careful research and adherence to licensing obligations are essential.

Required Documents for Vaudreuil-Dorion Short-Term Rentals

To register a short-term rental with the CITQ and obtain a permit to operate legally in Vaudreuil-Dorion, hosts must submit several required documents:

1. Property title: Proof of ownership of the short-term rental property, such as a deed or property tax bill.
2. Notice of compliance from the City of Vaudreuil-Dorion: A document confirming the short-term rental complies with municipal zoning bylaws. This involves submitting an application to the city with supporting documents.
3. Proof of civil liability insurance: Short-term rental operators must have a minimum of $2 million CAD in liability coverage. The insurance policy and proof of coverage must be submitted.
4. Photos of the short-term rental: Images that clearly identify the establishment and the accommodations being offered to guests.
5. Declaration of co-ownership (if applicable): For short-term rentals located in a condo building, the declaration of co-ownership must explicitly allow for tourist accommodation use. Many condo associations prohibit or restrict short-term rentals.

Hosts renting out their primary residence submit a different registration form to the CITQ than those renting a secondary property. All hosts must pay a registration fee and annual renewal fee to the CITQ.

It's important to note that documents like the notice of compliance from the municipality and the declaration of co-ownership are new requirements introduced in Quebec's updated Tourist Accommodation Act. Previously, hosts did not have to verify compliance with zoning or condo rules to register with the CITQ.

Gathering and submitting the required documentation is a critical step for short-term rental operators in Vaudreuil-Dorion. The CITQ will not issue a registration certificate to legally host without receiving these documents. Failure to comply can result in fines and penalties.

Vaudreuil-Dorion Short-Term Rental Taxes

In addition to registration and licensing requirements, short-term rental operators in Vaudreuil-Dorion must collect and remit several taxes from guests:

1. GST (Goods and Services Tax): The federal GST of 5% applies to short-term rentals across Canada, including in Vaudreuil-Dorion. Hosts must register for a GST number and charge this tax on all bookings.
2. QST (Quebec Sales Tax): The provincial QST of 9.975% also applies to short-term accommodations in Quebec. Similar to the GST, hosts are responsible for registering, collecting, and remitting this tax.
3. Lodging tax: The City of Vaudreuil-Dorion charges a 3.5% lodging tax on the rental price of short-term accommodations. This tax is collected by the host and remitted to the city on a quarterly basis.

In total, guests of short-term rentals in Vaudreuil-Dorion pay 18.475% in taxes on top of the nightly rental rate. For example, if a short-term rental charges $100 per night, the total price including taxes would be $118.48 ($100 + $5 GST + $9.98 QST + $3.50 lodging tax).

It's critical for hosts to properly register for tax accounts, collect the appropriate taxes, and remit them to the federal, provincial, and municipal governments. Failure to comply with tax obligations can result in penalties and legal consequences.

Some short-term rental booking platforms like Airbnb offer to automatically collect and remit certain taxes on behalf of hosts. However, hosts are ultimately responsible for ensuring they are registered and compliant with all tax requirements.

Proper accounting and bookkeeping practices are essential for short-term rental operators to track income, expenses, and taxes. Many hosts choose to work with an accountant or bookkeeper to ensure they are meeting their tax obligations.

In summary, short-term rental taxes in Vaudreuil-Dorion include the 5% GST, 9.975% QST, and 3.5% municipal lodging tax. Hosts must register for tax accounts, collect these taxes from guests, and remit them to the appropriate authorities to operate legally.

Quebec Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

Quebec has some of the most comprehensive short-term rental regulations in Canada. The province distinguishes between hosts providing tourist accommodations in their primary residence versus those renting out a secondary property.

As of March 25, 2023, under the provisions of Bill 67, Quebecers can rent out their primary residence on a short-term basis (under 31 days) throughout the province without the need for a municipal bylaw to allow it. However, municipalities can still prohibit or limit short-term rentals in primary residences in certain areas, subject to a referendum process.

Regardless of the type of property, anyone offering short-term tourist accommodations in Quebec must:

1. Obtain a notice of compliance from their local municipality confirming the short-term rental complies with zoning bylaws. This notice is required even for primary residence rentals.
2. Register with the Corporation de l'industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ) and obtain a registration number. Hosts must submit the municipal notice of compliance, proof of $2 million CAD liability insurance, and pay a registration fee.
3. Display the CITQ registration number and expiry date on any short-term rental listing. Platforms like Airbnb are prohibited from allowing unregistered listings.
4. Collect and remit the 3.5% provincial lodging tax on all bookings under 31 days. Airbnb collects and remits this tax on behalf of hosts.

The CITQ registration is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. Hosts face fines up to $50,000 for non-compliance with registration or tax requirements.

In addition to provincial rules, many Quebec municipalities have their own short-term rental regulations around zoning, permits, and taxes. It's critical for hosts to research and comply with all local bylaws.

The Quebec government has strengthened its enforcement of short-term rental rules in recent years. The updated regulations aim to level the playing field with hotels and increase housing availability by restricting short-term rentals in certain areas. While operating a short-term rental is still viable, hosts must carefully navigate the various provincial and municipal requirements.

Does Vaudreuil-Dorion Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Based on discussions from real estate investing forums like Bigger Pockets and Reddit, it appears that Vaudreuil-Dorion does enforce its short-term rental regulations fairly strictly compared to some other cities in Quebec. Hosts operating Airbnbs and other vacation rentals are expected to comply with the provincial registration requirements as well as Vaudreuil-Dorion's municipal zoning bylaws.

One Bigger Pockets user shared their experience trying to operate an Airbnb in Vaudreuil-Dorion without the proper permits and registration. They reported receiving violation notices from the city and ultimately having to shut down their short-term rental after being unable to bring it into compliance. The consensus from other forum members was that Vaudreuil-Dorion is not particularly friendly to Airbnb compared to more tourist-heavy areas of Quebec.

While some hosts may still attempt to fly under the radar, the risks of operating an illegal short-term rental in Vaudreuil-Dorion appear to outweigh the potential rewards. With fines up to $50,000 for unregistered rentals, most seasoned investors on Bigger Pockets and Reddit strongly caution against trying to circumvent the rules. The city has shown it will proactively investigate complaints and take action against non-compliant listings.

In summary, while other cities in Quebec may turn a blind eye to illegal Airbnbs, Vaudreuil-Dorion seems committed to upholding its short-term rental regulations. Hosts should carefully review and comply with all provincial and municipal requirements before listing a property on Airbnb or other vacation rental platforms in Vaudreuil-Dorion. The real estate investing community largely agrees that operating under the table is not worth the legal and financial risks in this jurisdiction.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Vaudreuil-Dorion

To legally start and operate a short-term rental in Vaudreuil-Dorion, hosts must follow these steps:

1. Review Vaudreuil-Dorion's zoning bylaws to ensure short-term rentals are permitted in the area where your property is located. Many residential zones prohibit operating vacation rentals.
2. If short-term rentals are allowed, apply to the City of Vaudreuil-Dorion for a "notice of compliance" confirming your rental meets all zoning requirements. This involves submitting documents like the property title, photos, floor plans, and proof of liability insurance.
3. Once the notice of compliance is obtained, register with the Corporation de l'industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ) to receive a provincial registration number:
   - For rentals in your primary residence, use the "principal residence" registration form
   - For rentals at a secondary property, use the "general tourist accommodation" form
   - Provide the municipal notice of compliance and proof of at least $2 million CAD liability insurance
   - Pay the CITQ registration fee
4. The CITQ will issue a registration certificate valid for 12 months. Post this certificate visibly on the property.
5. Add the CITQ registration number and expiry date to all short-term rental listings for the property.
6. Collect and remit the following taxes on bookings under 31 days:
   - 5% GST (federal goods and services tax)
   - 9.975% QST (provincial sales tax)
   - 3.5% lodging tax to the City of Vaudreuil-Dorion
7. Renew the CITQ registration annually by submitting updated documents and paying the renewal fee.
8. Ensure compliance with any other applicable municipal regulations around issues like parking, noise, property standards, etc.
9. If operating in a condo building, confirm the building's declaration and rules permit short-term rentals.
10. Obtain appropriate business licenses, permits for any renovations, and insurance policies required.

Following these steps is crucial for hosts to operate a legal short-term rental business in Vaudreuil-Dorion and avoid penalties or fines for non-compliance with local and provincial regulations.

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

For questions or to begin the process of obtaining permits and approvals for operating a short-term rental in Vaudreuil-Dorion, hosts should contact the following city departments:

Land Use, Engineering, and Environment Department
Phone: 450-455-3371, option 0
Address: 2555 Dutrisac, Suite 200, Vaudreuil-Dorion J7V 7E6
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30am-12pm, 1pm-4:30pm

This department handles zoning bylaws, permits, and ensuring compliance with regulations around short-term rentals. They issue the required "notice of compliance" that hosts need to register with the provincial tourism corporation.

Permits and Inspections Division
Phone: 450-455-3371, extension 2027
Address: 2555 Dutrisac, Suite 200, Vaudreuil-Dorion J7V 7E6

Specifically contact this division within the Land Use department regarding permit applications for operating a short-term rental. They can advise on permit requirements and ensure your plans comply with local bylaws.

Clerk's Office and Legal Affairs
Phone: 450-455-3371, option 0
Address: 2555 Dutrisac, Suite 200, Vaudreuil-Dorion J7V 7E6

This office can provide information on local regulations, bylaws, and enforcement around short-term rental operations in Vaudreuil-Dorion.

It's recommended to first contact the Permits and Inspections Division to understand the permitting process. Then follow up with the other relevant departments as needed when applying for approvals to legally operate a short-term rental in Vaudreuil-Dorion.

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

From browsing real estate investing forums like Reddit and Bigger Pockets, it's clear that many Airbnb hosts in Vaudreuil-Dorion find the local regulations around short-term rentals to be quite strict and challenging to navigate.

One Bigger Pockets user shared their experience trying to operate an Airbnb in Vaudreuil-Dorion without proper permits. They received violation notices from the city and ultimately had to shut down their rental after being unable to bring it into compliance with local bylaws and zoning rules.

Another host on a Reddit thread discussed the difficulties of obtaining the required "notice of compliance" from the city to legally register with Quebec's provincial tourism corporation (CITQ). They mentioned having to submit extensive documentation like floor plans, photos, and proof of insurance.

A common sentiment on these forums is that Vaudreuil-Dorion seems less "Airbnb friendly" compared to more tourist-driven markets. While some hosts attempt to fly under the radar, the consensus is that operating an illegal rental carries significant risks of fines up to $50,000 in this jurisdiction.

One Bigger Pockets member noted that Vaudreuil-Dorion has shown it will actively investigate complaints about non-compliant Airbnb listings and take enforcement action. This member strongly cautioned against trying to circumvent the city's short-term rental rules.

However, some hosts felt the municipal regulations were reasonable for preserving housing and residential neighborhoods. A Reddit comment mentioned that while a hassle, the licensing process helps ensure short-term rentals are properly insured, follow safety codes, and don't disturb surrounding homes.

Overall, many hosts seem to find Vaudreuil-Dorion's short-term rental regulations quite strict but necessary to legally operate an Airbnb rental in the city. Careful adherence to zoning, registration, and tax requirements is advised based on feedback from these real estate investing communities.

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.