Norfolk County seeking public input on three proposed tourism initiatives

Norfolk County Council is asking residents, businesses, and visitors to share their thoughts on a proposed approach to tourism in the community. 

The proposed approach includes a Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT), Short-Term Rental (STR) by-law, and Municipal Development Corporation (MDC). The goal is to manage tourism activity while supporting local businesses and the community.

At meetings held on March 10 and March 24, Council approved the MAT and STR By-law in principle, and Council approved forming an MDC-1 and MDC-2.

Council directed staff to complete additional public consultation on the MAT, STR, and MDC-1. 

What is being considered 

Short‑Term Rental (STR) By‑law 

A short‑term rental is a home, cottage, or part of a home that is rented for short periods, usually less than 30 days, to visitors or travellers. Examples include a cottage, a home, or a room in a home. The draft approach looks at registration, safety, parking, zoning, and enforcement. 

Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) 

A municipal accommodation tax is a 4% tax (user fee) added to overnight stays in hotels, motels, and short-term rentals. The tax (user fee) is paid by the visitor. The funds collected would be used to support tourism promotion and economic development in Norfolk County.  

Municipal Development Corporation (MDC‑1) 

A municipal development corporation is a corporation owned and established by a municipality to support economic development initiatives and partnerships, and to operate as the destination marketing organization (DMO). A DMO is a group that helps attract visitors to an area by marketing local attractions, events, and experiences, and sharing information that helps people plan their visit. 

The proposed MDC‑1 is a governance model that could help support tourism marketing and related initiatives, with representation from Norfolk County Council, the tourism industry, and the broader community. 

Background information on all three initiatives is also available on Engage Norfolk. 

No final decisions have been made. Public feedback will be used to refine the proposed approach before recommendations are brought back to Council for consideration. 

In-person opportunities to provide feedback 

Community members are invited to attend in-person public engagement sessions in Port Dover and Port Rowan. 

• Port Dover - Monday, April 27, 2026 
  Erie Beach Hotel, Harbour Hideaway Room 
  Open House: 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
• Port Rowan - Monday, May 11, 2026
  Port Rowan Community Centre, 14 College Ave, Port Rowan
  Open House: 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. 

Online survey 

Feedback can also be shared by completing an online survey at EngageNorfolk.ca. The survey is available now and will close at midnight on May 15, 2026.

Quotes 

Deputy Mayor Adam Veri 

 “The introduction of a Municipal Accommodation Tax represents a new multi-million-dollar investment into Norfolk County’s tourism economy. This new funding stream will help small businesses grow, encourage new private investment, and enhance community infrastructure that also benefits year-round residents.  

Council is committed to strong community-led governance that ensures thoughtful and appropriate use of MAT funds. Taking advantage of consultation opportunities is the best way for residents, businesses, and community groups to inform Council as it prepares to take this important leap forward.”   

John Regan, Director of Strategic Innovation and Economic Development  

“Tourism is a key economic driver for Norfolk County, and this work is about building a framework that supports sustainable growth. By bringing forward these draft initiatives together and engaging the community, we can ensure the approach reflects local priorities while positioning Norfolk for long-term success.”