Level the field for short-term rentals

I am writing to express my concern about short-term rentals, and its effects on communities and the lodging industry.

Home-sharing appeals to certain travellers and to homeowners wanting to boost their income. Platforms that support short-term rentals, like Airbnb, maintain that the revenue generated helps people to stay in their own homes. But they are corporations that encourage real estate investors who operate short-term rentals on a commercial scale. This creates conflicts in neighbourhoods by operating without regard for zoning; negatively affects neighbours’ enjoyment of their properties as a result of increased noise, garbage, demand for parking, and partying; negatively affects neighbours’ property values; and jeopardizes public safety by increasing the risk of criminal activity.

The Saskatchewan Hotel & Hospitality Association believes that anyone operating a short-term rental business should be limited to principal residences only, registered and comply with municipal bylaws and be licensed.

While we support a homeowner occasionally renting a room, we do not support individuals acting as commercial operators and not being subject to the same regulations and taxes as hotels.

Jim Bence, president and CEO Saskatchewan Hotel & Hospitality Association