1. Licensing & Regulations

• Business license required: Since April 1, 2025, any provision of temporary accommodation (up to 180 consecutive days) through short‑term rental platforms necessitates a business license in Calgary.

• Two categories:

  • Primary Residence: New license costs $172, renewals $131; plus a $114 fire inspection fee for both.

  • Non‑Primary Residence: New $510, renewal $260; same $114 inspection fee.

• Tiered system based on rooms: Older system distinguished Tier 1 and Tier 2 by number of rooms—now replaced by primary vs. non‑primary residence categories.

2. Safety & Documentation Requirements

Hosts must submit:

• Fire safety plan, featuring floor layouts, locations of smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, detectors, and exits.

• Proof of ownership, or if not the owner, a written authorization.

• If in a condo, submit written board approval (older requirement, though enforcement softened).

• Liability insurance: Minimum $2 million coverage, from a registered Alberta insurer, specifically covering short‑term rentals.

3. Operational Rules & Best Practices

• Guest limits: Max two adults per bedroom (excluding minors).

• Egress windows: Every rentable room must have an accessible window that can open without tools, for emergency escape.

• No overlapping bookings—only one reservation at a time per listing.

• Emergency contact info: Must be clearly displayed and responsive promptly.

• Advertise license number in all listings and marketing materials.

• Guest records: Maintain electronic guest records (e.g., names, emails, dates) and provide upon request.

4. Taxes & Fees

• Tourism levy: Alberta imposes a 4% tourism levy on stays under 30 days—hosts must collect and remit.

• GST: Required if gross rental income exceeds $30,000 annually.

• Income tax: All rental income is taxable; eligible expenses (e.g., mortgage interest, utilities, insurance) can be deducted.

5. Local Attitude & Enforcement

• Generally Airbnb‑friendly: Hosts often find Calgary’s approach reasonable, emphasizing education over penalties.

• Affordable housing protection: New non‑primary residence licenses are limited until vacancy rates improve.

• Condo board enforcement relaxed: City won’t decline licenses based on condo board objections alone.

Quick Recap: Short Term Rentals in Calgary

Selecting & Placing a Fire Extinguisher

1. Why 5 lb ABC Fire Extinguisher?

• Versatile: Effective for Class A (paper/wood), B (flammable liquids), and C (electrical) fires.

• Ideal for homes and short-term rentals—compact but powerful, offering good reach and discharge time.

• Meets and exceeds the 2A minimum rating requirement for a fire extinguisher.
• A typical 5 lb extinguisher has a 3A rating that exceeds the requirement.

2. Mounting & Placement Guidelines

• Height: The top of the extinguisher must be no more than 5 ft (1.53 m) above the floor; bottom at least 4 in (10 cm) off the ground.

• If the extinguisher weighs over 40 lb, mount handle no higher than 3.9 ft (1.19 m); but 5 lb units are typically lighter.

3. Recommended Locations

• Kitchen: Within 30 ft of potential fire sources (e.g., stove).

• Every level: At least one extinguisher per floor—especially near garages or entrances.

• Ensure each extinguisher is clearly visible, accessible, and ideally marked with signage.

4. Maintenance Best Practices

• Monthly visual checks: Ensure pressure is adequate, hose/nozzle are intact, and the unit is unobstructed.

• Annual servicing: By a qualified provider; include recharging if used, and hydrostatic testing at 6 or 12 years as per type.

Final Takeaways

For Airbnb/short-term rental hosts in Calgary, operating confidently means:

• Acquiring the correct business license (primary vs. non-primary)

• Preparing a robust fire safety plan

• Ensuring proper insurance coverage

• Following occupancy and listing rules

• Maintaining fire safety equipment—like a 5 lb ABC extinguisher—according to code

By staying compliant, you not only protect your guests and property—but also build trust and operational stability in Calgary’s growing STR market.

This is only a partial list of requirements and may not be fully up to date or all inclusive for your situation, consult your authority having jurisdiction for all current requirements in your area.