As of May 2025, the British Columbia government will be implementing a new Short-Term Rental (STR) Registry as part of its broader effort to regulate and monitor short-term rental activity across the province. This initiative is designed to increase transparency, enforce compliance with municipal bylaws, and address the ongoing housing crisis by ensuring that rental properties align with local zoning and housing availability goals.What is the STR Registry?
The STR Registry requires operators of short-term rentals—typically defined as accommodations rented for less than 90 consecutive days—to register their properties with the province. Upon registration, owners will receive a unique Short-Term Rental Registration Number, which must be displayed on all rental listings, including those on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo. The registry aims to prevent illegal or non-compliant rentals and improve enforcement of local bylaws.
How Does This Affect the Sunshine Coast?
The Sunshine Coast has long been a popular vacation destination, and short-term rentals play a significant role in the local economy. However, recent short-term rental bylaw changes have placed additional restrictions on these properties, limiting where and how they can operate. The introduction of the provincial registry adds another layer of regulation that property owners must navigate.
Key impacts include:
- Increased Oversight: Local governments will have better tools to track and enforce compliance with existing bylaws, which could lead to stricter enforcement actions.
- Potential Reduction in STR Availability: The combination of new bylaws and the registry could reduce the number of short-term rentals, potentially impacting both visitors looking for accommodations and property owners who rely on STR income.
- Fines & Penalties: Owners operating without a valid registration number or in violation of local bylaws could face fines or removal from rental platforms.
What Should STR Owners Do?
If you currently operate or plan to offer a short-term rental on the Sunshine Coast, you should:
- Register Your Property: Visit the BC Government’s Short-Term Rental Registry to complete the registration process.
- Review Local Bylaws: Ensure your rental complies with the latest municipal regulations.
- Monitor for Updates: Policies and enforcement measures may continue to evolve, so staying informed is crucial.
Looking Ahead
While the registry aims to regulate short-term rentals more effectively, its long-term impact on tourism and housing availability remains to be seen. Sunshine Coast property owners should be prepared for increased oversight and potential shifts in the rental market. If you have questions about how these changes may affect your property, we recommend consulting with local authorities or industry experts.