Short-term Rentals
Short-term Rental Licensing program
Township of Severn is introducing a licensing program for short-term rentals to support responsible rental activity and provide clearer information for operators, renters, residents, and neighbouring property owners. The program begins January 1, 2027.
Online applications will open November 12, 2026.
Who should apply?
If you own, manage, or are preparing to operate a short-term rental in Severn, please review the program requirements and confirm whether your property and rental activity require a licence. The Short-term Rental Licensing and Regulations By-law (2026-48) confirms which properties and activities are covered.
Licence fees
The fee is $250 per rental bedroom, plus HST. The application fee is due when you apply and is non-refundable.
Please make sure your application is complete before submitting, as no portion of the fee will be refunded.
Get ready to apply
The application is online and includes sections for uploading required documents.
To help avoid delays, prepare these materials before you begin:
- proof of property ownership, such as a current tax bill or water bill
- written permission to operate the rental, if you are not the property owner
- a signed Licensee Code of Conduct
- a floor plan showing the rental area, bedrooms, bedroom windows and fuel-fired appliances, if applicable
- a site diagram showing property lines, buildings, parking and relevant features such as docks, decks, wells and septic tanks
- the name, phone number, and email address of the responsible person
- a renter information package, including a Renter Code of Conduct
- current or sample advertising or listing materials
About the Operator Program Guide
Severn developed the Short-term Rental Licensing Program Guide to help current and prospective operators understand what’s required to apply for a licence and operate a rental in Severn. It walks you through the application process, fees and supporting documents, and explains what information renters must receive and what responsibilities continue after a licence is issued.
The guide also includes an application checklist, examples of site diagrams and floor plans, and templates to help you prepare renter information. Reviewing it before you apply can help you gather what you need and submit a complete, consistent application.
Operator responsibilities
Licence holders must keep their application information up to date, provide renters with the required information package, follow the occupancy limit and make sure renters understand the rules for noise, parking, garbage, fireworks, open-air burning, pets and property amenities.
The licensing program does not replace other Township by-laws. Existing regulations continue to apply.
Responsible person
Each licensed rental must have a responsible person who is available while the property is rented, can respond by phone or email within one hour, and can attend the property within two hours when required.
The responsible person’s name and contact information must be included in the application and renter information package. The Township will also publish this contact information, along with basic details about the licensed rental, on this page once the licence is approved.
Concerns about a short-term rental
For a non-emergency concern, contact the rental’s responsible person first.
If the issue is not resolved, submit a by-law complaint through eServices or contact By-law Enforcement by email at bylaw@severn.ca or 705-325-2315. Complaints must include your name and contact information; anonymous complaints will not be investigated.
For police matters, safety concerns, threats, trespassing or emergencies, contact the OPP or call 9-1-1 in an emergency.
Questions?
For questions about the program or by-laws, contact our By-law department at bylaw@severn.ca or 705-325-2315.
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