A Guide to Bed &
Breakfast Establishments in Residential Zones
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A bed and breakfast is the licensed use
of a dwelling by a resident for the provision of temporary lodging of
paying guests. Two guest rooms are permitted with the serving of a
morning meal to such guests. The dwelling will also include the use of a
common living and dining area.
How the City defines Bed and
Breakfast establishments:
A bed and breakfast must meet all
of the following requirements:
- Located in a
single family residential zone, with a single family residence as
the principle use.
- All employees are
residents of that home.
- No structural
alterations to the dwelling.
- No exterior
indication that there is a home occupation (except permitted sign),
including outdoor storage.
- No noise,
vibration, smoke, dust, fire hazards, electrical interference or
traffic congestion.
- Only a 0.3 square
metre (3 square feet) sign with the owner’s name and occupation is
permitted (can be illuminated but not flashing). No other signs or
advertisements.
- Maximum of 2
guest rooms.
- No cooking
facilities in the rented rooms.
- Rental rates can
not be posted on the property.
- More than one
means of access and egress from the premise.
- Maintain a guest
register.
- No paying guest
can stay for more than 14 consecutive days.
- No sales of
alcoholic beverages.
- Parking must be
provided in accordance with 12.4A of the Zoning Bylaw, plus one
stall per rented room.
- The premise must
be equipped with approved fire extinguishers having a minimum of
2-A:10B-C rating.
- Each premise must
have an emergency plan approved by the Fire Chief.
What you need to start your
business:
You need to apply for a business
license. Your business license needs to be approved by the Building
Inspector, Fire Chief, Public Health Inspector and Electrical Inspector
before it will be issued.
What you need to submit an
application:
You must submit a copy of the
emergency plan, which will be posted in your Bed and Breakfast. The
emergency plan will need to be approved by the Fire Chief. A site plan
showing access to the property and parking stalls will also be helpful
in determining if you are able to have a bed and breakfast on your
property.
What to do after you get your
license:
You are required to post your
business license in a visible location at your place of business. Each
calendar year, you are required to obtain an updated business license.
You must keep the City up-to-date on any changes to your business. You
must keep a guest registry and you must properly maintain your fire
safety equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long will it take to
process my application?
Processing times vary. Since many professionals need to review your
application, it may take up to 2 weeks to receive your business license.
What happens if my application is denied?
Your application could be denied for many reasons. A Bed and Breakfast
needs to have the appropriate fire safety features, adequate parking,
adequate access to the property, and be in a adequately constructed and
maintained building. It also needs to be in a residential zone and
restricted to the specifications in this brochure. If denied, ask Staff
what options are available to you.
Where can I find more information about
business licenses?
You can read more about business licenses and home occupations in the
Business license brochure available in the Planning Department.
This publication is
intended to provide general information only. It is not intended to
be used as an official interpretation of the various codes and
regulations in effect.
Updated January 2007
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