What you need to know about short term accommodations regulations in West Kelowna
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, Aug. 5, 2021
Short term accommodations operators must now apply for a business licence and follow new regulations in the City of West Kelowna; and they can find resources online to help with the process.
Short term accommodations have an important role in our economy and licensing and regulations reduce impacts to neighbourhoods, protect long term rental supply and ensure operators are accountable for the wellbeing and safety of guests and residents. Regulations were implemented July 13, 2021, meaning all operators currently advertising or booking Short Term Accommodations must now hold a valid annual business licence.
At the time of application, a one-time fee of $250 is due; and, the annual licence fee is $500. Failure to obtain a licence and follow regulations may result in fines of $250 to $1,000 for each day of operation and possible further legal action.
Visit westkelownacity.ca/shorttermaccommodations to find eligibility details, applications, the Operator Guidebook and questions and answers.
A short term accommodation is defined as a portion of a primary residence rented for less than 30 days and is permitted only within a single detached dwelling, secondary suite or carriage home. To be eligible to operate a short term accommodation:
- The property must be the applicant’s principal residence for the majority of the year and have the permitted zoning
- An application must be submitted for a Short Term Accommodation Business Licence
- Applications must include a Good Neighbour Agreement, Fire & Safety Self Evaluation Attestation, Fire Safety Plan, Parking Site Plan and, if applicable, Owner/Strata Consent Form.
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