Town of Essex Launches STRU Hotline

In effort to provide a better resident experience, the Town of Essex has launched a dedicated Short-Term Rental Unit (STRU) hotline for reporting all STRU related concerns including parking, noise, fire, and licensing infractions. Individuals can now contact the hotline 24/7 at 1-833-ESSX STR (1-833-377-9787) to speak to a live agent and report a concern regarding the operation of a short-term rental unit in the Town of Essex.

As of January 1, 2023, owners of Short-Term Rental Units are required to have a valid license under by-law 2025 in order to advertise or operate an STRU in the Town of Essex. Enforcement is now in effect and may result in monetary penalties.

Since STRUs are often found in residential neighbourhoods, the Town of Essex has adopted a system of zoning regulations and licensing to ensure STRU operators are complying with municipal bylaws, and that the character of neighbourhoods is maintained. All persons seeking to operate a STRU in the Town of Essex must be located in a district, and within a building, where STRUs are permitted under the Zoning Bylaw. All STRU must also obtain a licence from the Town of Essex to operate within the jurisdiction.

Application for STRU licensing remains open. To apply for an STRU license, visit www.essex.ca/STRS to access the online STRU Licensing Application. As a reminder, only those STRUs located in a residential district operating on or before May 9, 2022 are eligible for a licence. New and existing STRUs are permitted to operate with a licence in commercial, agricultural and select green districts.

For more information, visit www.essex.ca/STRs