Both the City of Edmonton and City of Calgary have passed bylaws about the licencing of short-term rentals. The City of Edmonton’s bylaw about short-term rentals is already in effect. The City of Calgary’s bylaw about short-term rentals will come into effect on February 1, 2020.
This page provides information on short-term rentals in Edmonton only. Information about short-term rentals in Calgary will be added to this page. If you have a question about short-term rentals outside of Edmonton, contact your local municipality.
Short-term rentals in Edmonton
What is a short-term rental in Edmonton?
A short-term rental is rental accommodation in a private residence that lasts for 30 consecutive days or less. A person can rent a portion or all of the premises. For example, the rental accommodation can be an entire home, a condominium, a private room, a shared room or a space in a home where a “host” (the accommodation provider) lives.
Last Reviewed: October 2019
Do I need a business licence to operate a short-term rental in Edmonton?
Yes, you must have a valid City of Edmonton Business Licence to operate a short-term rental. The licence fee for a short-term rental is $92. If the City of Edmonton issues you a licence, it will notify Alberta Health Services (AHS). AHS will then follow up with you on compliance with health regulations—which may include an inspection of the property. The licence is valid for one year from the date it is issued or renewed. To learn more about how to apply for a business licence and the licencing process, go to the City of Edmonton’s website.
Last Reviewed: October 2019
What are my responsibilities as a short-term rental host in Edmonton?
If you have a valid City of Edmonton Business Licence for a short-term rental, you must follow certain conditions under the City’s Business Licence Bylaw:
• Make sure that you provide guests with an updated copy of the information guide on the City of Edmonton’s bylaws. The guide contains information on rules relating to garbage collection and disposal, noise and parking.
• Post your phone number in the rental property.
There are fines for not following these conditions.
Last Reviewed: October 2019
I’m thinking of operating a short-term rental unit in a condominium in Edmonton. Do I need the condominium board’s approval before applying for a licence?
You should get permission from your condominium board. Be aware that condominiums may have bylaws restricting business operations in units.
Last Reviewed: October 2019
I’m a tenant and thinking of renting out my unit as a short-term rental in Edmonton. Do I need my landlord’s approval before applying for a licence?
You should get permission from your landlord. Be aware that a landlord may restrict business operations in their property and/or short-term rentals through the lease.
Last Reviewed: October 2019
Can I operate a business out of a short-term rental unit in Edmonton?
No, you cannot operate a business out of a short-term rental unit unless you have a licence authorizing you to operate the business. There are fines for operating an unlicenced business.
Last Reviewed: October 2019
I have concerns about a short-term rental unit in Edmonton. What can I do?
If you have concerns about a short-term rental unit (e.g., noise, parking, garbage collection/disposal, maintenance) that you cannot resolve with the landlord or owner of the property, you can call 311 or file a complaint on the City of Edmonton’s website.
Last Reviewed: October 2019
General Questions
Who operates short-term rentals?
Short-term rentals are often operated by a property owner or a management company.
Last Reviewed: October 2019
How are short-term rental transactions completed?
Short-term rentals are usually transacted between “hosts” (the accommodation provider) and “guests” through online platforms such as AirBNB, VRBO, HomeAway and Flipkey.
Last Reviewed: October 2019
