Province pauses short-term accommodation rentals

UPDATE: Short-term accommodations allowed to re-open as of Jan. 31.

Short-term accommodation rentals are not permitted as of 12:01 am on Wednesday, Jan. 5 as outlined in Ontario’s enhanced COVID-19 measures.

The provincial measure will be in place for at least 21 days (until Jan. 27) subject to trends in public health and the health system.

The restrictions on short-term accommodation rentals apply regardless of when the booking took place. Short-term accommodation rentals may be provided to individuals who are in need of emergency housing.

The restrictions apply to whole-home and owner/tenant occupied short-term accommodations, cabins, and cottages but not hotels, motels, lodges, resorts, and student residences. The government has not banned owners from visiting their cottage or secondary residence.

County bylaw officers will enforce the new restrictions. If you believe a short-term accommodation rental is operating in contravention of the restrictions, call 613.476.2148 extension 2050.

The provincial government has also brought in new regulations around social gatherings. Social gatherings are permitted under the following conditions:
Indoor gatherings limited to five people or fewer
Outdoor gatherings limited to 10 people or fewer

Organized public events are permitted under the following conditions:
Indoor events limited to five people or fewer
Outdoor events have no limits on number of attendees, but face coverings and/or masks must be worn when distancing (two metres or more) cannot be maintained.