The Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) is reminding short-term rental operators to register with the province and ensure they are in compliance with land-use bylaws.
In a March 4 news release, the CSRD reminded short-term rental (STR) hosts and operators they must be registered with the B.C. government's new Short-Term Rental Registry by May 1, in order to remain on listing platforms. Hosts who fail to comply will have their listings taken down beginning June 1, and may also face administrative penalties. Furthermore, the province has indicated registration may be denied or later cancelled if an STR is not permitted by local government.
In addition to obtaining a provincial registry number, owners of STRs within CSRD electoral areas are being urged to contact the regional district's planning staff to review zoning regulations and confirm if their rental accommodation is permitted on the property. If not, the CSRD can outline possible options for property owners. One option is to apply for a Temporary Use Permits (TUP), which may allow specific land uses not permitted by zoning regulations. In the CSRD, TUPs are generally valid for three years with the possibility of one renewal.
"Having a provincial registry number for your STR does not negate the need for your property to be zoned appropriately for this use," cautioned CSRD development services general manager Gerald Christie in the media release.
The CSRD estimated there are more than 1,500 short-term rentals operating within its boundaries.
Further information can be found on the B.C. government Short-Term Rentals webpage, and on the CSRD's Short-Term Rentals webpage. The CSRD page will be updated as more information becomes available from the province.
Questions about CSRD bylaws or applications can be directed to plan@csrd.bc.ca or 250-832-8194.
