Guide to investing in Southern Georgian Bay
Looking for an Airbnb or Investment Property in Collingwood and The Blue Mountains?
Here’s What You Need to Know
Investing in short-term accommodations (STAs) or rental properties in Collingwood, The Blue Mountains, Meaford, and The Grey Highlands can be a fantastic opportunity—but understanding local regulations is key. Since zoning and licensing laws differ by municipality, knowing the rules upfront helps you make a smart investment. This guide breaks it all down for you so you can move forward with confidence.
ways to Earn in the Rental Market
In Southern Georgian Bay, rental income typically falls into three categories:
Short-Term Accommodations (STAs) – Commonly known as Airbnb-style rentals.
Seasonal Rentals – Leased for a full ski or summer season.
Annual Rentals – Traditional long-term leases.
This guide explains explains your real estate investment options and what you need to know to make the right investment for your goals.
Short-Term Accommodations
The demand for short-term rentals is strong in our region, especially near ski resorts. But strict zoning and licensing rules mean not all properties qualify. No one wants to buy a property only to realize they can’t rent it out—let’s make sure you go in with all the right info.
Collingwood
Until January 2025, Collingwood prohibited STAs (except for licensed bed & breakfasts in primary residences). New regulations now allow limited STAs:
200 licenses issued annually on a first-come, first-served basis.
Rentals must be in a primary residence or accessory unit where the owner resides.
Three license categories:
Class A – Guest Room STA License
Class B – Principal Residence STA License
Class C – Additional Residential Dwelling Unit STA License
More details: Town of Collingwood
Key takeaway: You cannot purchase a second property solely for Airbnb in Collingwood. STAs are restricted to primary residences.
The Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains has designated STA zones, primarily around Blue Mountain Village Resort.
A license is required and must be renewed when ownership changes.
If a property is outside STA-approved zones, short-term rentals are not permitted.
Pro tip: Work with a local Realtor to verify zoning before purchasing. Many buyers working with out-of-town agents have unknowingly purchased properties that cannot be legally rented as STAs.
Meaford – No official STA licensing program.
- Current bylaws allow rentals of up to three bedrooms in a single detached home.
Enforcement is currently minimal, but a licensing system may be introduced soon.
If you’re considering an Airbnb in Meaford, staying informed about potential regulatory changes is a must.
The Grey Highlands
The Grey Highlands permits STAs with a licensing program:
Maximum occupancy: 2 guests per bedroom, 10 guests per property.
In subdivisions or settlements, STAs are capped at 15% of properties per street (some streets have reached this limit, so availability is limited in certain areas).
Owner or designated agent must be available 24/7 within 60 minutes.
The 15% cap is currently under review—investors should stay updated.
Seasonal Rentals
If you’re looking for an alternative to STAs, seasonal rentals are a local favorite—especially for ski families who return year after year. Unlike STAs, they don’t require special zoning or licenses, but rentals must be 30 days or longer.
Ideal features for seasonal rentals:
Proximity to ski clubs (e.g., Alpine, Craigleith, Georgian Peaks, Beaver Valley)
Hot tubs, fireplaces, mudrooms with boot dryers
Tenants must provide proof of a primary residence elsewhere
Summer vs. Winter:
Ski chalets are highly sought after in winter but may struggle in summer.
Waterfront properties excel in summer but may be harder to rent in winter.
Grey Highlands & Meaford have demand, especially near Beaver Valley Ski Club.
Seasonal rentals work well for homeowners who travel frequently or spend winters in warmer destinations.
Annual Rentals
Annual rentals fall under Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) and do not require special zoning or licenses. However, tenant screening is key.
Landlord responsibilities:
Credit checks, employment verification, and personal references
Understanding tenant and landlord rights under the RTA
Recognizing that tenants establish primary residency, making eviction more complex
Long-term rentals offer stability, but a well-vetted tenant is crucial to maintaining a stress-free investment.
Invest with Confidence
Every investor’s goals are different—whether you’re after a weekend rental or a year-round income property, I’ll help you navigate the market and find the right fit. A strategic approach, combined with expert guidance, ensures you maximize your investment while staying compliant with local regulations.
Want to ensure your investment is a success? Let’s talk about your options! With deep local knowledge, I’ll help you avoid pitfalls and find the best property to meet your goals.