Council decides to permit short-term rentals, with regulations to be put in place early next year.
The City of Welland has decided to allow short-term rentals.
A short-term rental is defined as a dwelling that is rented for 28 days or less, but doesn't include a bed and breakfast, hotel/motel or boarding or lodging house.
On Tuesday, council approved an amendment to the Zoning By-law permitting short-term rental accommodations as a secondary use in industrial, residential and agricultural zones, as well as residential dwellings in commercial zones.
Currently, short-term rentals aren't allowed in Welland, though bed and breakfasts, as well as accessory apartments are permitted.
"We know that short-term rentals already exist in the City," said CAO Steve Zorbas. "What we're able to do now is regulate them and ensure that anyone who operates a short-term rental understands that they have a responsibility to ensure there are no negative impacts on those living next door."
The amendment proposes that short-term rentals have three or less guest bedrooms, be subject to licensing and not display external advertising on the site.
A licensing fee of $1,029.50 has been set, with a yearly renewal fee of $75.
Keep Talking Justice Reform: MP
NRP Warn of Opioid Overdose Surge
Teenagers Wanted After Welland Car Crash
Nurse Practitioner Impacting Niagara Falls ER
Grimsby, Port Colborne Honour Remembrance Day
St. Catharines Man Charged with Drug Dealing
Wainfleet Man Wins Lottery... 1st Time
MP Plans to Hear More Vaccine Injury Stories