Short term rental platforms like Airbnb are being put under the microscope in Sarnia.
City council has endorsed a motion from councillor Bill Dennis, asking staff to look into the potential of regulating the industry.
Dennis said without municipal regulations -- the market is turning into a free-for-all.
"The short term market should include, but not be limited to, online rental platforms such as Airbnb, HomeAway, HomeToGo and VRBO," said Dennis. "I do understand the planning advisory committee is looking at bed and breakfasts under the safe housing review, but I don't believe that we can afford to wait to consider this short term rental piece. Timing is of the essence, given residents safety concerns coupled with the explosive growth in this market."
Dennis said residents are concerned about neighbourhood safety, privacy and parking.
He said if the homes are acting like a business, they should be treated like a business and subject to city fees, taxes and regulations.
"This rapidly growing market is a major contributor, in my opinion, to our lack of affordable housing challenges within the city."
In May, Windsor council decided to more forward on regulating short term rental platforms.
Sarnia staff have been asked to include details from Windsor's decision in an information report, due back in September.
