What is the Ontario Short-Term Rental Association?

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How it works

OSTRA operates by engaging directly with policymakers, city councils, and government agencies to influence the development of short-term rental laws. The association monitors regulatory changes across the province and informs its members through newsletters, meetings, and online resources.

It gathers data and commissions studies to demonstrate the economic and social value of short-term rentals to local communities. Furthermore, OSTRA provides a platform for members to network, share best practices, and collaborate on addressing common challenges.

Why it matters

For property owners and managers in Ontario, OSTRA provides crucial representation in a complex and often restrictive regulatory environment. Membership offers access to timely information on legal requirements, helping operators maintain compliance and avoid penalties.

By uniting the industry, the association amplifies the voice of individual hosts, enabling more effective advocacy than one could achieve alone and working to protect their right to operate.

Examples

• A host in Toronto facing new licensing rules consults OSTRA's resources to understand the application process and compliance requirements.
• A group of cottage owners in the Muskoka region joins OSTRA to collectively voice their concerns to the local council about proposed occupancy limits.
• OSTRA leadership presents a report to the Niagara Falls city council outlining the positive economic impact of vacation rentals on local tourism, arguing against a potential ban.
• The association sends an urgent alert to members about a new bylaw proposal in Ottawa that could significantly impact their operations, and provides a template for writing to their city councilors.