US EditionCanmore’s vacancy tax bylaw deemed valid by Alberta judge
- The Town of Canmore will begin imposing a vacancy tax in 2026 on homes left empty over half the year to address affordability issues.
- The tax responds to Canmore's affordability crisis, making it one of Canada's most expensive places, and follows similar measures in British Columbia and Toronto.
- The levy, called a livability tax, charges mostly vacant homes higher rates, requires 183 days occupancy with 60 continuous days, and affects about 25% of homes owned by part-time residents.
- Canmore expects the tax to raise about $12 million annually for affordable housing, while critics warn it punishes loyal taxpayers and could become a "yearly tax grab" by the municipality.
- Mayor Sean Krausert supports the tax, saying it is not targeting second homeowners but addresses community changes caused by part-time owners, while opponents continue organized resistance.
11 Articles
11 Articles
New tax targeting empty homes in Canmore stirs divisions in mountain town
The Town of Canmore will soon begin taxing homeowners who leave their residences empty for more than half the year as part of the Alberta community's bid to reverse course on an affordability crisis that has made it one of the most expensive places to live in Canada.
castanet.net
New tax targeting empty homes in Canmore stirs divisions in Alberta mountain town
The Town of Canmore will soon begin taxing homeowners who leave their residences empty for more than half the year as part of the Alberta community's bid to reverse course on an affordability crisis that has made it one of the most expensive places to live in Canada. The new levy, which the town is ...
edinburgh.gov.uk
The NEN - North Edinburgh NewsBoost to local services from taxes on empty shops and second homes
Since 1 April 2024, following changes to Scottish Government legislation, a 200% Council Tax charge has been applied to second homes. At the same time, non-domestic rates relief on empty commercial properties has been capped at three months
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