Short-term Rentals

Township of Severn does not currently licence short-term rental accommodations.​ 

Regulatory by-laws

Some of the regulatory by-laws that currently apply to short-term rentals in Severn include:

Short-term Rental Licensing Program

Following Council’s decision at the May 20, 2026 Council meeting, the Township will be implementing a Short-term Rental Licensing program as noted as Option #2 in Report No. A26-019 to support responsible short-term rental activity, improve accountability, and provide clearer information for operators, renters, residents, and property owners.

Short-term Rental Licensing By-law

A Short-term Rental Licensing By-law will be brought forward for Council’s consideration at a Special Council meeting on Wednesday, June 24.

If approved, the by-law will allow the Township to implement the Short-term Rental Licensing Program.

If you have any comments or questions regarding the proposed Short-term Rental Licensing Program or the Short-term Rental Licensing By-law, please email the Clerk or call 705-325-2315 x232.

This page will be updated as materials are finalized.

Visit our Council portal

What are short-term rentals?

Short-term rentals commonly refer to when all or part of a dwelling unit is used to provide sleeping accommodations for any rental period that is less than 28 to 30 consecutive days in exchange for payment.

Online short-term rental platforms such as Airbnb, RentbyOwner, and Vrbo describe online platforms that connect consumers to property owners or managers that rent these spaces. Short-term rentals have increased in popularity as they provide a unique alternative to hotels during travel, and offer income potential to the home owner. Short-term rentals can present challenges to existing regulations and municipal by-laws. Homeowners should be aware of the by-laws that may affect the short-term rental of their property in Severn.

How to submit a complaint about a short-term rental property

Police matters, safety concerns, threats, trespassing, or emergencies should always be directed to the OPP or 911 in an emergency.

1. Contact the rental platform

If you have a concern or complaint about a short term rental, you can directly contact the online platform that the rental is listed on. These companies may impose fines and restrictions on these properties as a result of complaints. 

2. Contact us

By-law enforcement is responsible for investigating violations and ensuring compliance with all municipal by-laws.

If you have a concern about a short-term rental that may not be following our by-laws, please visit our eServices portal to submit your complaint.

Previous Council direction

November 19, 2025

On November 19, 2025, Council directed staff to bring forward reports outlining updates to the By-law Complaints and Violations Policy, and to detail implementation options for an Administrative Monetary Penalty (AMP) system utilizing our existing regulatory by-laws. 

March 18, 2026

At its meeting on March 18, 2026, Council directed staff to work toward the implementation of an Administrative Monetary Penalty System, known as AMPS, to support more timely and effective by-law enforcement.

This system is intended to support compliance with Township by-laws, including matters related to noise, parking, open-air burning, property standards, and other local regulations. More serious offences may still proceed through the Provincial Offences Act process where appropriate.

Updates will be provided on this page as available.

Contact us

1024 Hurlwood Lane
Severn, Ontario

Phone: 705-325-2315
Fax: 705-327-5818
Contact us

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