MEDIA RELEASE

For Immediate Distribution

September 6, 2023 – (Halifax, NS) – The Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia (TIANS) applauds the implementation of new Halifax Regional Municipality by-laws that came into effect on September 1^st, 2023, which will strengthen the regulations for Short-Term Rentals (STR) in the region.

“Nova Scotia’s tourism businesses are required to meet a number of regulations to operate and, for too long, the proliferation of short-term rentals has created an unlevel operating environment for operators who pay commercial taxes and licensing fees, and who meet safety and regulatory requirements.  This is a step in the right direction,” says Wes Surrett, Chair of TIANS.

TIANS has been advocating on this issue for years and is pleased to see action taken by Nova Scotia’s largest municipality. The changes that will limit where and how STR’s can operate within residential zones and the requirement of a registration system is something that TIANS fully supports.

“There are a number of issues that have arisen as a result of the unregulated growth of Short-Term Rentals, and the social impact on communities related to available housing is a significant one,” says TIANS President, Darlene Grant Fiander. “We anticipate an immediate positive economic impact for legitimate accommodation operators, as well as improved access to housing.”

Working with partner associations and stakeholders, TIANS is committed to representing the best interests of the Industry; enhancing and supporting the development of a competitive business environment; advocating on issues critical to the Industry’s success; and most importantly, leading Nova Scotia’s most promising economic sector.

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For more information, please contact:
Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia
lisa@tourism.ca
902.423.4480
www.tians.org