Considering running an Airbnb or other short-term rental in Belleville? Before listing your property, it’s essential to understand the City of Belleville’s by-law that governs short-term accommodations (STAs). These regulations were introduced in 2022 to protect neighbourhoods, improve accountability, and ensure health and safety standards for visiting guests.
Whether you’re an investor, homeowner, or someone casually renting part of your home, this guide will help you understand what’s allowed, what’s required, and where to go for more information.
What is a Short-Term Accommodation (STA) in Belleville?
The City of Belleville defines a short-term accommodation as the rental of a dwelling—or part of one—for less than 30 consecutive days. This includes full-home rentals and rooms within a principal residence. Hotels, motels, inns, and traditional long-term rentals are not considered STAs.
Examples of STAs include:
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Airbnb or VRBO listings
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Bed & Breakfast operations
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Short-term room rentals within a principal residence
To be legal, all short-term accommodations in Belleville must be licensed under the City’s STA licensing program.
Key Rules for Short-Term Accommodations in Belleville
Here’s a breakdown of the most important things property owners should know before renting their properties as short term rentals:
1. Licensing is Mandatory
All short-term accommodations in Belleville require a valid licence, even if you only rent occasionally. Advertising your property without a licence is not permitted.
Each licence is valid for one year, non-transferable, and cannot be renewed without an updated application and proof of insurance.
2. Principal Residence Requirement
Belleville does not require STAs to be the operator’s principal residence. This means an investor can legally operate a short-term rental in a property they do not live in, provided they meet all other licensing requirements. However, they must have a Local Contact Person available 24/7 who can respond within 30–60 minutes in case of issues.
3. Maximum Number of Guest Rooms
The by-law allows up to 3 guest rooms to be rented at a time in a short-term accommodation, and to accommodate a maximum of 4 individuals. Unless it is an entire single-detached Dwelling Unit rented under a single booking.
4. Guest Safety and Fire Requirements
To protect guests and minimize risk, your STA must:
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Provide posted evacuation routes
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Have working smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers on every floor
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Use hardwired or 10-year sealed battery smoke alarms (no regular battery-operated devices)
5. Separation Between STAs
To limit overconcentration, the City requires a 100-metre distance between licensed STAs—except in the Downtown Belleville Improvement Area (BDIA), where this rule is waived.
6. Limit on Total STAs in the City
The City has capped the number of active STA licences at 150. Once that cap is reached, no new licences will be issued until space becomes available.
7. No Events Allowed
STAs may not be used to host events like weddings, receptions, or large gatherings. These uses are strictly prohibited under the by-law.
8. Parking & Responsible Operation
Guests must use designated parking spaces, and a local contact must be available to respond within 30–60 minutes to any emergency or complaint.
Who Should Apply for an STA Licence?
Licensing applies to anyone renting part or all of their home for under 30 days at a time, including:
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Homeowners listing on Airbnb or VRBO
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People renting out guest suites or finished basements
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Bed and breakfast operators
If it’s less than 30 days, you need a license.
If your Belleville property fits one of these categories, you’ll need to apply through the City of Belleville’s Short-Term Accommodation Licensing page.
Considering Buying an Investment Property?
There are plenty of houses for sale in Belleville, Ontario, that may suit your goals—whether you plan to live in the home or operate a short-term rental. Visit our Belleville MLS® listing directory to view current Belleville houses for sale and real estate listings.
Thinking about Prince Edward County instead? You can also explore our guide to PEC STA regulations for a comparison of rules across our region.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re already operating a short-term rental in Belleville or thinking of buying a home to start one, it’s critical to stay informed and follow the by-law. These regulations are designed to ensure safe, respectful hosting that supports both neighbourhoods and tourism.
Need help navigating your next real estate purchase or want to discuss investment opportunities? Book a consultation with our team or browse available listings at quinteliving.com.
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