Montreal's Short-Term Rental Rules: Tourism vs. Safety

0:00Montreal's short-term rental rules are sparking debate as tourist season ramps up. Airbnb warns the city could lose big on tourism cash if it doesn't ease restrictions put in place last March. Those limits mostly banned hosting in residential areas from June 10th through September 10th, aimed at stopping illegal listings under the old mayors. Watch. The rules got tougher after a tragic fire in old Montreal last March that killed seven people, including six staying in Airbnb spots. City leaders call short-term rentals a growing problem back then, and they've stuck with seasonal curbs, despite pushback. More than a dozen hosts showed up at a city council meeting Monday night, pushing hard for changes. They say that bands are hurting locals who want to rent out their main homes during peak times, like summer festivals. Airbnb wants year-round flexibility for primary residences, paired with a straightforward permit process. They pointed that as showing fewer rooms available, which could ding the economy around big events like the Formula One Grand Prix weekend.

1:02With warmer weather drawing crowds, the pressure is on for Montreal to rethink its approach and keep the tourism dollars flowing strong. That's the story for today.