Niagara Falls
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Niagara falls
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STR Regulations for Niagara falls
Short-Term Rental Regulations in Niagara Falls, NY
Overview of Short-Term Rentals
Short-Term Rentals (STRs), referred to as Vacation Rental Units (VRUs), are allowed in Niagara Falls, but with significant restrictions. VRUs are specifically defined as short-term rental properties for tourists and visitors, typically offered through platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo.
Key Restrictions and Zoning
Zoning Requirements
VRUs are NOT permitted in residential areas. They are only allowed in three specific commercial zones:
- Tourist Commercial (TC)
- General Commercial (GC)
- Central Business (CB)
Property Limitations
- Maximum of three bedrooms per VRU
- Owner does NOT live on the property (unlike Bed and Breakfasts)
Licensing and Application Process
Required Documentation
To apply for a VRU license, you'll need:
- Government-issued ID
- Property transfer/deed
- Commercial insurance proof
- Site plan
- Floor plan
- Parking management plan
- Municipal Accommodation Tax paperwork
- Building inspection (if renovations occurred)
- Fire inspection
Application Details
- Initial license cost: $500
- Annual renewal: $250 (due April 30th)
- Submit application to Debra Jones, Licensing Coordinator
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 905-356-7521 ext. 4283
Additional Regulations and Compliance
Fines and Penalties
- First offense for operating an unlicensed VRU: Up to $50,000
- Subsequent offenses: Up to $100,000 each
Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT)
- $2.00 flat fee per night of occupancy
- Operators must register, collect, and remit this tax
Enforcement and Reporting
Enforcement is complaint-based. Illegal VRUs can be reported through:
- Online reporting form
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 905-356-7521 ext. 8000
Relevant Resources
Key Documents
Applicable Bylaws
- Vacation Rental Unit By-laws: 2018-92, 2021-57, 2021-99
- Business Licensing Bylaw
- Municipal Accommodation Tax Regulations
- Noise Bylaw
- Parking and Traffic Bylaw
- Property Standards Bylaw
Contact Information
Zoning Section:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 905-356-7521 ext. 4330
City Hall:
- Address: 4310 Queen Street, Niagara Falls, ON, Canada L2E 6X5
- Phone: 905-356-7521
Recommended Next Steps
- Review zoning map to confirm property eligibility
- Gather required documentation
- Complete VRU application
- Register for Municipal Accommodation Tax
- Obtain necessary insurance and inspections
Disclaimer: Always verify current regulations directly with the city, as rules may change.
Photos of Niagara falls
Overview of Niagara falls
Niagara Falls, NY, located in western New York State, is renowned for its iconic waterfalls that captivate millions of tourists annually. The city has a population of approximately 48,000 residents and is situated about 20 miles north of Buffalo, NY. Its proximity to the Canadian border and the scenic Niagara River further enhance its appeal.
The main attraction is, undoubtedly, the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls themselves, comprising the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and part of Horseshoe Falls. Visitors can experience these natural wonders up close via Niagara Falls State Park, which offers breathtaking views, walking trails, and boat tours like the Maid of the Mist. The park also features the Cave of the Winds, providing an exhilarating experience behind the Bridal Veil Falls.
Additional noteworthy landmarks include the Niagara Gorge, offering hiking opportunities amid dramatic landscapes, and Old Fort Niagara, showcasing over 300 years of military history. The city is also home to attractions such as the Aquarium of Niagara, which hosts a variety of marine life exhibits.
The growth of short-term rentals in Niagara Falls, NY, is driven by these compelling tourist attractions and the city's strategic location. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture and the natural beauty of the area, making Niagara Falls an attractive destination for short-term stays.