The Canadian Camping and RV Association (CCRVA) has submitted a proposal to the Canadian government advocating for key policy changes that will directly impact private campground owners. The submission focuses on three major areas: tax classification, electrical infrastructure improvements, and disaster relief funding.

Key Recommendations:

1. Amendment to the Income Tax Act

• CCRVA is advocating for small, family-owned private campgrounds with fewer than five full-time employees year-round to be classified as active businesses rather than passive investments.
• This change would make these campgrounds eligible for the small business tax deduction, reducing their tax rate from up to 50% to approximately 15%.

• Currently, many campground owners face uncertainty and financial strain due to being classified as “Specified Investment Businesses,” requiring them to prove their eligibility annually for tax deductions.

2. Electrical Infrastructure Improvements

• Increased funding is needed to upgrade electrical infrastructure in rural areas to support growing electricity demands in campgrounds.
• With a shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) and more electrically powered RVs, campgrounds require enhanced electrical capacity to accommodate this transition.
• CCRVA proposes that government investment is essential to ensure campgrounds can offer EV charging stations and maintain reliable power for their guests.
• Strategic investments in grid upgrades and incentives for rural businesses will support industry-wide adaptation to future energy needs.

3. Disaster Mitigation and Business Relief Funding

• The increasing impact of wildfires, floods, and other natural disasters puts campground owners at risk of significant financial loss.
• Many seasonal businesses like campgrounds do not qualify for existing federal emergency relief programs.
• CCRVA is calling for the creation of a Disaster Mitigation and Business Relief Fund (DMBRF) to:
  
  • Provide financial assistance to campgrounds affected by natural disasters.
  • Support proactive mitigation efforts such as fire prevention and flood-resistant infrastructure.
  • Protect local economies and jobs that depend on the camping and RV industry.

Why This Matters for Campground Owners in Saskatchewan

• These policy changes will lower tax burdens, allowing more campground owners to invest in their businesses.
• Government investment in electrical infrastructure will help ensure that Saskatchewan campgrounds can meet increasing power demands.
• A dedicated disaster relief fund will provide critical financial support to owners impacted by climate-related disasters.

CCRVA’s submission to Finance Canada aims to enhance the sustainability and growth of the private campground sector, ensuring a stronger future for campground owners across the country.