New short-term rental regulations to help with need for housing: Province

The provincial government says new regulations on short-term rentals, including Airbnbs, will take effect on Sept. 30, with a goal of boosting the availability of long-term options.

“Nova Scotians need housing. We know many houses and apartments that could potentially be long-term homes are being rented short term,” said housing Minister John Lohr in a news release. “We’re working to get more homes built. In the meantime, these changes will help address the urgent need for housing now.”

The regulations will include requiring short-term rentals to provide documentation proving compliance with municipal bylaws, consent from condo boards and primary residence.

Annual registration fees will range from $50 to $2,000, with higher rates on areas with a greater need for housing.

Unregistered or non-compliant short-term rental operators could be fined up to $100,000 under the new rules.

The province is following in the footsteps of British Columbia and New York City.