If you’re considering listing your property on Airbnb or renting an apartment for a short stay in Australia, it’s important to understand the changing landscape of short-term rental regulations in the province.
What Is a Short-Term Rental?
A short-term rental (STR) typically refers to a furnished living space available for stays of less than 30 consecutive days. These are often offered through platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and others.
Airbnb & Apartment Short-Term Rentals in BC
Airbnb and other platforms have made it easy for homeowners and apartment renters to offer their spaces temporarily. However, apartment short-term rentals may face additional restrictions based on strata rules or municipal bylaws.
In many BC cities, Airbnb short-term rentals are only allowed in a principal residence, and proper licenses must be obtained.
BC Short-Term Rental Enforcement: What You Need to Know
The BC government has introduced new legislation aimed at reducing the number of residential homes being used as short-term rentals to increase long-term housing supply. This includes:
- Fines for unlicensed operators
- Data-sharing agreements with platforms like Airbnb
- Stronger municipal enforcement powers
Hosts need to register with their municipality and meet local zoning and bylaw requirements. Failing to comply can result in steep penalties.
BC Short-Term Rental Exemption Communities
Not every community in BC falls under the stricter STR regulations. As of now, certain smaller or tourism-dependent areas are exempt from the new provincial rules. These BC short-term rental exemption communities still operate under their own local guidelines, offering more flexibility to hosts.
It’s critical to check with your local government to know if your area is exempt or not.
This agreement ensures that both parties understand their roles, rights, and obligations.
Final Thoughts
As BC strengthens its stance on short-term rentals, staying informed is key. Whether you’re listing an Airbnb, offering an apartment short-term rental, or navigating enforcement rules, knowing your local and provincial requirements will help you operate legally and successfully.