FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 15, 2018
City looking for feedback on Nelson’s short-term rental regulations; On-line survey open until April 10th, 2018
Nelson, BC – City Council adopted Nelson’s first regulations and licensing system for short-term rentals in 2016. They also passed a resolution to commit to reviewing the short-term rental regulations in June 2018 to consider how the regulations have been working for the community in the first year of implementation.
Council saw a need to regulate Nelson’s short-term rental (STR) market as they were concerned that these rentals were impacting longer-term rentals in the community. Council is cognizant that STRs provide extra income for home owners and have worked to find a balance to ensure there is a level playing field for STR operators, while also meeting the needs of local long-term renters.
“City Council has made it a priority to accommodate STRs for the benefit of visitors, residents, and neighborhoods, while at the same time mitigating potential negative impacts on our long-term rental market.” says Mayor Deb Kozak. “We will continue monitor the STR licensing program and gather feedback from residents and businesses to ensure the regulations we have in place continue to meet the needs of the community.”
When the City implemented the STR regulations and licensing system, there were 80 operators, with only 9 of those having a business licence. We now have 53 licensed STR accommodators in the City – each of whom is fully licensed and in compliance with City regulations.
To help inform policy review, the City is checking in with all residents and businesses by hosting a short survey which is available online at www.nelson.ca/str. The survey provides some background information and an update on the success of the regulations in terms of licences issued and compliance with the regulations.
The survey will be open until April 10th, 2018.
Media Contacts:
Kevin Cormack, City Manager – (250) 352-8203
Pam Mierau, Manager, Development Services – (250) 352-8217
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