Norfolk County is asking residents, businesses, and visitors to weigh in on a proposed approach to managing and growing tourism in the community.
The plan includes three key components: a short-term rental by-law, a four per cent municipal accommodation tax, and the creation of a municipal development corporation to support tourism marketing and economic development. County council approved all three initiatives in principle during meetings in March and has directed staff to gather additional public feedback before moving forward.
Officials say the proposed short-term rental by-law would introduce rules around registration, safety, parking, zoning, and enforcement for properties rented for periods of less than 30 days. Meanwhile, the municipal accommodation tax would apply to overnight stays in hotels, motels, and short-term rentals, with funds used to promote tourism and support local economic growth.
The proposed municipal development corporation would serve as a destination marketing organization, helping promote Norfolk County as a visitor destination while involving representatives from council, the tourism industry, and the broader community. The goal is to create a more coordinated and sustainable approach to tourism in the region.
Residents can provide input at upcoming public engagement sessions in Port Dover on April 27 and Port Rowan on May 11. Feedback can also be submitted through an online survey available on the county’s Engage Norfolk platform until May 15.
No final decisions have been made, and officials say public feedback will help shape the final recommendations brought back to council for consideration.
