Getting Ahead of STR Rules Through Local Advocacy – Anyone Been Here Before?

[Joseph2571]

PaRx Nature Prescription

Hey everyone,

After falling hard for sustainable travel as a guest, I knew I wanted to build something of my own—something rooted in nature, quiet, and connection. So, I packed up city life, moved to the woods, and started creating an eco-tourism retreat that invites people to slow down and breathe a little deeper.

It’s been incredible. And honestly, with initiatives like PaRx—Canada’s first national, evidence-based nature prescription program where doctors now write actual prescriptions for Provincial and National Parks—it feels like the rest of the world is finally catching up to what many of us already knew: time in nature heals.

That said, since the year before I bought my place, I’ve been having conversations with local officials about STR rules and bylaws. The response has been consistent: “We’re still discussing it.” So, for now, we’re in this limbo space—no finalized policy, no formal regulations, but lots of quiet side conversations, and usually only when problems surface.

We’re in a rural, tourism-reliant area, so there’s an understanding that STRs bring value—guests mean local dollars, potential future residents, and all the ripple effects of thoughtful hosting. But as many of you know, in small communities, it only takes one loud, unhappy voice to sway things at council.

I came across the “Policy & Civic Engagement Champion” role in the Community Leadership Team info, and it got me thinking: maybe it’s time to stop waiting for bylaws to happen to us and instead be part of shaping them.

So, I’m putting this out there:

• Has anyone here been part of local advocacy efforts around STRs?
  
  
• What worked (or didn’t)?
  
  
• Any tools, strategies, or advice for building partnerships and having productive conversations in small-town settings?

I’m not looking to make waves—just hoping to bring hosts, neighbours, and community leaders to the same table so we can create something that works for everyone.

Thanks in advance for sharing anything that might help.

Gratefully, Joe

[Rebecca · Accepted solution]

Hello @Joseph2571 👋

Sounds like you’ve been on quite the journey! Moving to the woods to create something meaningful is impressive. And it’s great to hear about initiatives like PaRx - I've never heard of that so thank you for sharing this with the community. 

I can imagine it's very frustrating being in limbo with STR rules.  Have you thought about reaching out to your Local Host Club?