Navigating the short-term rental (STR) landscape in British Columbia requires staying updated on evolving regulations. As of 2025, Kelowna, Peachland, Lake Country, and West Kelowna have specific rules governing STR operations. This guide provides an overview of the current requirements in these municipalities.

Kelowna: Updated STR Regulations

In 2025, Kelowna City Council adopted new bylaws to align with provincial standards:

  • Principal Residence Requirement: STRs must be operated from the host's principal residence.

  • Permitted Units: Rentals are allowed in the primary residence, secondary suites, or carriage houses.

  • Licensing: A valid business license from the City of Kelowna is mandatory.

  • Provincial Registration: Hosts must register their STRs with the provincial registry by May 1, 2025.

  • Occupancy Limits: A maximum of three bedrooms can be used for STR purposes per dwelling unit.

  • Advertising Requirements: Listings must display both the provincial registration number and the local business license number.

Peachland: Existing STR Framework

Peachland's STR regulations, primarily under the "Bed and Breakfast" category, remain consistent with provincial guidelines:

  • Principal Residence Requirement: STRs must be operated within the host's principal residence.

  • Permitted Units: Rentals are allowed in rooms within the primary dwelling or registered secondary suites.

  • Prohibited Units: Whole-home rentals and detached garden suites are not permitted for STR use.

  • Licensing: A valid business license from the District of Peachland is required.

  • Provincial Registration: Hosts must register their STRs with the provincial registry by May 1, 2025.

Lake Country: STR Regulations

Lake Country permits STRs under specific conditions:

  • Zoning Compliance: Accommodations must be within a STVR allowable zone. 

  • Principal Residence Requirement: The home where the STR is located must be occupied by the principal resident for most of the year.

  • Permitted Units: STRs must be located within the primary residence and not in an accessory suite separate from the home.

  • Occupancy Limits: No more than four sleeping units can be rented out at the same time.

  • Parking: There must be parking for all guests on the property; street parking is not permitted.

  • Licensing: A valid District of Lake Country Business Licence is required. 

  • Provincial Registration: Hosts must register their STRs with the provincial registry by May 1, 2025.

West Kelowna: STR Regulations

West Kelowna has established its own STR regulations:

  • Principal Residence Requirement: Operators must reside in the home and be present overnight during the guest's stay. 

  • Permitted Units: Rentals are allowed in the primary residence, but not in accessory buildings like trailers or garages.

  • Licensing: A valid business license from the City of West Kelowna is mandatory. 

  • Advertising Requirements: Listings must display both the provincial registration number and the local business license number.

  • Provincial Registration: Hosts must register their STRs with the provincial registry by May 1, 2025.

Provincial STR Registry: Key Points

The Province of British Columbia has implemented a registry for all STR operators:

  • Registration Deadline: All STRs must be registered by May 1, 2025.

  • Fees: Annual registration fees are $100 for principal residences and $450 for secondary suites or accessory dwelling units.

  • Enforcement: Non-compliant listings may be removed from platforms like Airbnb and VRBO starting June 1, 2025.

Conclusion

Understanding and adhering to local and provincial STR regulations is crucial for hosts in Kelowna, Peachland, Lake Country, and West Kelowna. Ensuring compliance not only avoids potential penalties but also contributes to the sustainability of the local housing market.