Tourism is an important economic driver for Vaughan. Employing more than 12,000 people in 2017, the accommodations and hospitality sector is the fifth largest employment sector in the city.

In 2018, the Conference Board of Canada estimates that the accommodations and hospitality sector generated an estimated GDP of $294-million. This number grows substantially higher when arts, entertainment and recreation businesses are factored in. Leading attractions such as Canada’s Wonderland, Vaughan Mills, the McMichael Canadian Art Collection, LEGOLAND and the upcoming Cirque du Soleil Creactive brings millions of visitors each year who contribute to the local economy and help our small businesses thrive.

Due to recent changes in Provincial Legislation, the City now can implement a Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) as a dedicated source of funding for tourism marketing and promotion. The City of Vaughan has approved a four per cent Municipal Accommodation Tax on hotels, lodges, bed and breakfasts and motels effective Apr. 1, 2019. Pending the establishment of a planning and regulatory framework, the City is also considering applying the MAT to short-term rentals, including online home-sharing platforms. 

Revenue from MAT will be used for marketing the tourism experience in our growing and thriving municipality. Working with a destination marketing organization, Vaughan accommodation providers will offer valuable advice on how to enhance and attract tourism to the city. The funds may also be used to enhance visitor and resident experience while in the City, and may include wayfinding and beautification, infrastructure improvements and communications.

MAT is currently enacted across the province, including GTA municipalities such as the cities of Toronto, Mississauga, Markham and the Town of Oakville, who have all adopted the standard rate of four per cent.  As competition increases across the GTA, and new accommodation options are available, Vaughan must focus on its business development efforts to capture and increase overnight visits; and provide memorable and authentic experiences to all people as a destination of choice.

MAT Registration Instructions

MAT Registration and Submission Link

MAT Submission Instructions

View the extract from Council meeting (PDF).

View the MAT By-law 029-2019 (PDF) regarding the Municipal Accommodation Tax.

To learn more about the implementation of the MAT, please view the Frequently Asked Questions.

For more information, contact us at mat@vaughan.ca.