Short-Term Rentals

Short-term rentals are a type of accommodation where an individual rents a residence, or a portion of a residence, for a short period of time. These rentals are typically arranged through online platforms such as Airbnb or VRBO. 

If you plan to operate a short-term rental in Milton, you must obtain a licence before offering or advertising your property. Short-term rental licences help ensure rentals are safe, well-managed, and comply with municipal by-laws. 

This page outlines what you need to apply, how the process works, and the responsibilities of short-term rental owners. 

Be a good neighbour 

Milton is a welcoming community. If you host guests at your short-term rental, you are responsible for ensuring they follow community standards and local by-laws. 

When operating a short-term rental: 

    • Quiet hours are between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. daily 

  • Follow parking regulations 
    • Provide off-street parking 

    • Do not allow guests to block sidewalks or park on lawns 

  • Maintain your property 
    • Failure to maintain the property may result in fines 

  • Manage waste properly 
    • Follow scheduled garbage and recycling collection requirements through Halton Region 

For inquiries about noise, parking, or garbage, use the Town’s contact form. For concerns about property maintenance or compliance, contact the hosting platform (Airbnb or VRBO). 

Short-term rental licence 

A short-term rental is defined in the Zoning By-law as the rental of a dwelling unit, or part of a dwelling unit, for 28 days or less, without providing meals or commercial services. 

As of July 15, 2022, all short-term rental owners in Milton must obtain a licence before operating. 

An owner is defined as a person who owns, leases, rents, occupies, manages, or otherwise controls the property. 

What you need 

Before you apply, make sure you meet the following requirements: 

  • Be at least 18 years of age 

  • Provide a local contact name and address, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week 

  • The contact must respond to calls from Town Enforcement or Police within 24 hours 

  • Confirm the property is your principal residence 

  • Confirm that your rental agreement or condominium by-law permits short-term rentals 

  • Provide valid government-issued identification at the time of application 

  • Keep records of all short-term rental activity and provide them to the Town if requested 

  • Provide 24-hour emergency contact information to guests 

  • Limit occupancy to two persons per bedroom 

  • Comply with all applicable federal, provincial, and municipal laws 

  • Remove listings and advertisements when directed by the Town 

Fees 

An annual licensing fee of $375 applies to all short-term rental licences. 

How to apply 

Applications for short-term rental licences must be submitted in person at Town Hall. 

Follow these steps to apply for a short-term rental licence: 

Step 1: Confirm eligibility 

Visit the Development Services counter at Town Hall to determine if a Certificate of Occupancy can be issued. 

If a certificate cannot be issued, you may: 

  • Withdraw your application, or 

Step 2: Obtain Certificate of Occupancy 

If approved, pay the applicable fee. Once processed, you will receive your certificate. 

Step 3: Complete your application 

Complete the required forms: 

Step 4: Submit your application 

Bring your completed application and supporting documents to Licensing and Enforcement at Town Hall. 

At this time, you will also pay the licensing user fee. 

Step 5: Inspection and approval 

A Licensing and Enforcement Clerk will contact you to schedule any required inspections. 

After required inspections are complete, staff will confirm whether your licence will be issued. 

After you apply 

After submitting your application, Town staff will review your materials and coordinate any required inspections. You may be contacted for additional information.  

Your licence is not valid until it has been approved and issued. 

Contact Licensing and Enforcement