The Municipality of Pictou County and the Town of New Glasgow are jointly reviewing proposed amendments to regulate short-term rental properties (Airbnb, VRBO, etc.) within the county.
What is being proposed?
The draft bylaw would require all short-term rental operators to: - Register with the municipality annually ($150/year fee) - Meet minimum safety standards (smoke detectors, CO alarms, fire extinguisher) - Limit rentals to their primary residence OR a single investment property - Provide proof of liability insurance ($2M minimum)
Why is this being considered?
Council has received 47 formal complaints over the past 18 months related to noise, parking, and neighbourhood character in areas with high concentrations of short-term rentals. At the same time, local tourism operators say short-term rentals provide valuable accommodation capacity during peak seasons.
Have your say
A formal public meeting will be held at New Glasgow Town Hall on July 15, 2026 at 6:30 PM. Written submissions are accepted until July 10, 2026.
Share your thoughts below. For official submissions, contact your municipal office directly.