Correspondence: Email Re: Follow-Up – Short-Term Rentals, Amnesty Period, and Bylaw Alignment

From: Diane Fownes Sent: April 30, 2026 2:15 PM To: Mayor And Council Email mayorandcouncil@viewroyal.ca Subject: Follow-Up – Short-Term Rentals, Amnesty Period, and Bylaw Alignment

Dear Mayor and Council,

I am writing to provide a brief follow-up to my previous correspondence, in advance of the May 5 meeting.

Since my original letter, I have received clarification from the Chief Administrative Officer confirming that residents are currently unable to comply with provincial short-term rental regulations during the amnesty period. This confirms that the issue is not simply confusion, but that there is no lawful pathway for residents to operate.

Given that, I would ask Council to consider not only the amnesty period, but whether the current bylaw itself requires amendment to align with provincial legislation and provide a clear, workable framework for residents.

I also want to raise a point of consistency. Bed and breakfasts remain permitted and are able to operate with business licences. These uses involve short-term stays, guests coming and going, and similar neighbourhood impacts. It is not clear what principle distinguishes those uses from other forms of short-term rental that are currently prohibited.

More broadly, the provincial framework was developed to address large-scale commercial operations while allowing limited participation by individual homeowners. A complete prohibition removes that distinction and prevents residents from participating at all.

I would encourage Council to consider a more balanced approach that aligns with the provincial framework, provides clarity, and allows residents a lawful way to operate.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Diane Fownes