City seeks public feedback on potential implementation of Residential Rental Licensing Program

The City of Kingston is seeking public input on the potential implementation of a Residential Rental Licensing Program. Property owners, renters and landlords are invited to provide feedback by completing the Residential Rental Licensing survey on the Get Involved Kingston platform. 

This engagement initiative comes after City Council passed a motion on Dec. 20, 2022, in which staff were directed to draft a report that would examine the implementation of a pilot Residential Rental Licensing Program (RRLP), along with other potential regulatory options. In this iteration of the RRLP, the pilot program is proposed to apply to properties containing 1 to 4 residential rental units on a lot in Sydenham and Kingscourt – Rideau, two districts with a high density of rental properties. 

“This engagement will help us better understand residents’ experiences and concerns with residential rental units,” says Curtis Smith, Director of Licensing and Enforcement at the City of Kingston. “A Residential Rental Licensing Program could help us identify potential issues with units and build an inventory of the City’s existing rental housing stock. Our goal is to achieve this at the lowest cost to all participants.” 

Feedback gathered from the engagement will be used to identify residents’ and property owners’ concerns with rental units, as well as gather feedback on the potential benefits and limitations of an RRLP. Concerns and feedback alike will be considered when drafting the RRLP.   

Survey participants have the option to enter a draw for a $100 VISA gift card as a thank you for their time. The engagement closes on Dec. 21, 2023.