Supporting Local Hospitality: Nova Scotia's Short-Term Rental Community.

STRANS is dedicated to promoting the benefits of short-term rentals in Nova Scotia,

supporting local entrepreneurs and advocating for regulations that ensure a fair and thriving industry.

Empower Your Business: Join STRANS and Make a Difference in the STR Industry.

As a member, you gain access to expert advocacy, best practices, and a collective voice influencing policy at all levels.

Together, we can ensure fair, sensible regulations for a thriving and responsible STR industry.

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Drive Positive Change: Sponsor STRANS and Boost Nova Scotia's Economy.

Your sponsorship helps advocate for fair legislation and promotes sustainable growth in the short-term rental industry.

Gain visibility and positive brand association while making a lasting impact on our community and hospitality sector.

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Quick Links

Tourist Accommodations Registry:

Canada Revenue Agency (CRA):

  • Understand the tax obligations, including GST/HST requirements and income reporting.
  • Canada Revenue Agency

Municipal Bylaws and Regulations:

  • Familiarize yourself with local bylaws, zoning regulations, and licensing requirements specific to your area.
  • Check your municipality's website for detailed information. For example, Halifax's regulations can be found on the Halifax municipal site.

In Nova Scotia, short-term rental regulations vary across different municipalities. Here are some key bylaws for short-term rentals in Nova Scotia:

  1. Halifax:
    • As of September 1, 2023, Halifax requires all short-term rentals (STRs) to comply with new land-use by-law regulations.
    • STRs are only permitted in residential zones if they are part of the primary residence of the host. This means secondary units like backyard suites are not allowed as STRs in residential zones.
    • In commercial zones, where traditional tourist accommodations are permitted, STRs are also allowed.
    • Hosts must register their STRs annually with the Tourist Accommodations Registry by April 1st. The registration fee is $50 for properties with 1 to 4 bedrooms and $150 for those with 5 or more bedrooms​ (Home)​​ (Furnished Housing Claim)​.
  2. Lunenburg:
    • Any building intended for short-term accommodation must have a valid building permit prior to construction or conversion.
    • A valid occupancy permit is also required before the space can be used for short-term rentals​ (Furnished Housing Claim)​.

For further details and the latest updates on short-term rental regulations, you can visit the official websites of Halifax and the Government of Nova Scotia:

Airbnb Host Resources:

  • Utilize Airbnb’s extensive host resources, including community support, best practices, and local regulations.
  • Airbnb Host Resources

Insurance Providers:

  • Ensure you have the right insurance coverage for short-term rentals, including liability and property insurance.
  • Companies like Square One Insurance and Aviva Canada offer specialized STR policies.

Tourism Organizations:

  • Partner with local tourism boards to promote your rental and stay informed about regional tourism trends.
  • Destination Canada and provincial tourism sites offer valuable insights.

Collaborate for a Better Tomorrow.

Partner with us as we work towards creating a regulatory framework that balances the interests of hosts, guests, and residents. Together, we can make a difference.

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