Marketing Levy
Marketing Levy
Destination Cape Breton was designated the official destination marketing organization for Cape Breton Island by the five municipalities on the Island in 2011-12. This corresponded with the establishment of the Cape Breton Island Marketing Levy, which provided the majority of the resources to fund the promotion of the Island as a tourism destination.
Levy Changes
In January 2024, the Cape Breton Island Marketing Levy increased from 2% to 3%. The levy is now charged on all fixed-roof accommodations and includes short-term rentals like Airbnb, VRBO, etc. that are registered under the Tourist Accommodations Registration Act. Please note that failing to register can result in significant penalties.
This change was initiated by new province-wide legislation for levies allowing municipalities to generate revenue to attract tourists to their communities.
For more information:
Cape Breton Island Marketing Levy Set at 3%
Marketing Levy Changes on Track for January 2024
Information Session March 19, 2024
Information Session April 10, 2024
As of January 2024, the Marketing Levy rate to be charged by accommodation providers is 3% of the purchase price of the accommodation. Please note: the Marketing Levy is NOT exempt from HST, so the Levy must be applied before the tax. The levy is charged on all fixed-roof accommodations and includes short-term rentals like Airbnb, VRBO, etc. that are registered under the Tourist Accommodations Registration Act.