B.C. gov’t announces new short-term rental registry

Posted January 20, 2025 2:30 pm.
Last Updated January 20, 2025 2:47 pm.
B.C.’s housing ministry is launching a registry for short-term rentals to crack down on “speculators” operating illegally in the province.
The registry is designed to curtail the amount of short-term rentals so families in B.C. can find places to live long-term.
The government will require anyone operating a short-term rental on platforms like AirBnB or Vrbo to register with the province. This will include hosts outside areas with a principal-residence requirement.
“Our main focus was to cut red tape so we can get more housing supply online. That means more small-scale multi-units, more transit-oriented development,” said Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon in a press conference Monday.
In a statement, the province said it will give hosts a registration number that must be displayed on all listings as of May 1. Hosts who don’t comply with the rules will have their listings removed on June 1.
There will also be annual registration fees, ranging from $100 for hosts who live on the property, $450 for those who live elsewhere, and $600 for so-called strata hotels.
“We’re proud to welcome people from around the world to visit and make Vancouver their home. As our city grows, it’s vital to ensure there’s enough housing for everyone who wants to live here. Together, we’re finding the right balance – supporting our thriving tourism industry while also prioritizing housing for our residents.” said Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim
According to the statement, B.C.’s efforts to limit short-term rentals saved British Columbians more than $600 million on rent in 2023.
The ministry says the provincial registry comes on top of short-term rental rules set out by municipalities, including meeting business licence requirements.
Monday’s action on short-term rentals is part of the government’s $19-billion investment in the Homes for People Plan. The plan is designed to deliver more middle-income housing in a shorter time frame, while curtailing the amount of short-term rentals in the province.
—With files from The Canadian Press