An STA located within a dwelling unit where the owner:
- Lives full time, and
- Uses the property as their principal residence
If a separate or accessory dwelling unit is rented, it is not considered owner-occupied.
Short-Term Accommodations
A short-term accommodation (STA) is the use of all or part of a legally established dwelling unit to provide temporary lodging for less than 28 consecutive nights in a calendar year.
This includes arrangements such as:
- Bed and breakfasts
- Rentals offered through online platforms
- Any similar commercial transaction involving payment
It does not include:
- Hotels or motels
- Hospitals or care facilities
- Long-term care homes
- Campgrounds or similar uses
Council approved the Short-Term Accommodations By-law (By-law 2025-176), effective Dec. 1, 2025, which sets the rules for operating short-term accommodations in the City of Belleville. Refer to the by-law for full details and regulations.
Types of STAs
Any STA that is not owner-occupied is classified as a whole-home STA for administrative purposes.
Licensing
A licence is required in all cases, including:
- Renting a room occasionally
- Listing a basement apartment
- Offering short stays through platforms such as Airbnb
Licences are valid for one year from the date of issue.
Fees
| Type of STA | Licence Fee | Renewal Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Whole-home | $1,000 | $500 |
| Owner-occupied | $500 | $250 |
Getting a Licence
Please Note: Properties located within 100 metres of another registered STA are not eligible to apply. Use our online map to determine eligibility before completing the application.
1. Submit your Application
Complete the online application form and include all required documents.
2. Application Review Process
Your application will be reviewed after payment is received. The following departments may review your submission:
- Planning
- Building
- By-law enforcement
- Fire prevention
You may be contacted for additional information.
3. Decision
- If approved – your licence will be issued.
- If denied – you have the option to appeal the decision.
Renewing your Licence
You must renew your licence each year before it expires. To renew, submit:
- A renewal application
- All required supporting documents
Municipal Accommodation Tax
A 4% municipal accommodation tax (MAT) applies to stays of less than 30 days.
- Paid by guests at the time of booking
- Applies to most types of short-term lodging
- Must be remitted to the City
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about short-term accommodations? This section provides clear answers to common questions about licences, eligibility and requirements.
I only rent occasionally. Do I still need a licence?
Yes.
Can I rent my basement apartment?
Yes, but you must have a licence.
My neighbour has a licence. Can I get one too?
Not always. There must be at least 100 metres between STAs. Refer to our online map to check your eligibility.
The municipal accommodation tax (MAT) is a 4% tax applied to short-term stays of less than 30 days.
How it works:
- The tax is charged to guests at the time of booking
- It applies to most short-term accommodations, including those booked through online platforms
- The operator is responsible for collecting and remitting the tax to the municipality
Why it is collected:
Revenue from MAT helps support local tourism, events and municipal services.
Important:
You may still be responsible for MAT even if a booking platform collects it on your behalf. Check your platform agreement and ensure all required payments are submitted to the City.
How long can guests stay in a short-term accommodation?
A short-term accommodation can be rented for less than 28 consecutive nights. Stays of 28 nights or more are considered long-term rentals and are not permitted under a short-term accommodation licence.
How many guests are allowed at one time?
A maximum of four guests is permitted at one time.
An exception may apply if you rent an entire single-detached dwelling under one booking. In that case, additional guests may be permitted in accordance with the by-law.
What happens if I operate without a licence?
Operating a short-term accommodation without a valid licence is not permitted.
You may be subject to:
- Fines or penalties
- Enforcement action by the municipality
- An order to stop operating
To avoid penalties, make sure you apply for and receive your licence before listing or renting your property.
Contact Us
Business Licensing
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