Municipal Accommodation Tax Survey - CLOSED

Norfolk County is evaluating the feasibility and implementation potential of a Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) to strengthen tourism promotion and tourism development.

What is it?

Since 2017, Ontario municipalities have had the option to implement a Municipal Accommodation tax on hotel stays and short-term rentals. This creates sustainable funding for tourism promotion and development. Over 80 municipalities across the province have adopted this approach to support local economic development and tourism initiatives.

VIDEO: Should tourists help fund Norfolk County's growth? You decide.

How would it work?

The MAT is a user fee charged to visitors staying at local accommodations (hotels, motels, B&Bs, Airbnb, etc.). A small fee of 4% is added to the guests’ bill when they stay at local accommodation providers.

What does this mean for residents?

This is not a tax increase for Norfolk County residents. Only visitors using local accommodations would pay this fee. The revenue would fund tourism marketing and destination development, potentially through a dedicated tourism organization that could be managed by the proposed Municipal Development Corporation (MDC). Funds could also support quality-of-life improvements like recreation facilities that benefit visitors and residents.

This short (5-minute) survey is intended to collect important insights that will inform the feasibility and implementation potential of adopting a MAT in Norfolk County. Please take a few minutes to share your perspectives on this potential tourism development tool.