If you operate or invest in short‑term rentals in the Lower Mainland your landscape has shifted. Recent updates at both provincial and municipal levels have created a new regulatory framework designed to protect long‑term housing while allowing homeowners to earn supplemental income. Here is a clear breakdown of the most important changes and what they mean for you.
Provincial Registry Launch
Starting May 1 2025 all short‑term hosts in British Columbia are required to register their properties with the new provincial Short‑Term Rental Registry. Hosts must display a valid provincial registration number on all listings and platforms are required to verify registrations before advertising .
Any listing without registration as of June 2 2025 will be removed and bookings will be cancelled beginning June 23 2025 .
Principal‑Residence Requirement
A key rule limits short‑term rentals to the host’s principal residence plus one secondary suite or accessory dwelling. This rule applies in all communities with populations over ten thousand and many nearby districts. Some areas may opt out annually by March 31.
Vancouver and other municipalities adopt this provincial floor and may add stricter requirements locally.
Municipal Licensing in Vancouver
Vancouver requires a separate city business licence costing approximately $1,060 per year for short‑term rentals. Hosts must include this number in all marketing. Strata approval and proof that the property is a principal residence are also mandatory .
Enforcement and Compliance
The new provincial compliance unit will monitor registrations and handle enforcement. Privacy is protected, but non compliant listings face removal. Fines of up to $3,000 per day for hosts and up to $50,000 per violation for municipalities can be applied .
Impact on Your Business
Listings without proper registration or licences face removal and booking cancellations. Many operators are already seeing their listings delisted this summer. Reddit users are sharing stories of sudden cancellations made to comply with the new rules .
Without municipal and provincial approval platforms will actively prevent bookings on those listings.
What You Should Do Now
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Confirm that your property qualifies as a principal residence or a permitted accessory suite
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Register with the provincial system before May 1 and renew annually
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Apply for your Vancouver short‑term rental license and include its number in your listing
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Ensure strata or landlord approvals are in place
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Prepare for upcoming changes by updating listing information on all platforms
Final Thoughts
These regulations aim to balance housing needs with tourist accommodation demand. Compliance is critical. If your rental is properly licensed these changes can enhance your credibility and stability. If not you risk losing bookings and facing penalties.
Would you like a compliance checklist or help restructuring your short‑term rental operations? Reply to this email and I can guide you through each step.
Let’s ensure your property stays both legal and profitable.
Imran Ali
The Ali Group
📧 [email protected]
📞 604-616-555
