New short-term rental rules approved for Electoral Areas East and West ahead of 2026 tourism season

Eligible property owners in Electoral Areas East and West will soon be able to operate short-term rentals under a new Regional District of Central Okanagan regulatory framework.

The Regional Board approved the required bylaw amendments at a regular meeting on Thursday, May 14. The approval follows extensive public engagement earlier this year, including public consultation in January and a public hearing in March.

“The rural communities that showcase the natural beauty of the Central Okanagan are a big part of what makes our region so desirable for residents and visitors alike—it’s important we get short-term rentals right,” said Regional Board Chair Loyal Wooldridge. “Our role is to listen closely to our communities and shape growth in a way that reflects their values. This framework supports local tourism and strengthens our economy, while recognizing and protecting the unique character of our rural areas. We know these are places people deeply value, and this sets clear expectations to help maintain the quality of life for long-term residents.”

The framework introduces new rules, safety standards and licensing requirements, creating a consistent approach to short-term rentals in Electoral Areas East and West and strengthening the RDCO’s ability to manage compliance.

What residents need to know

Under the updated bylaws, short-term rental operators in Electoral Areas East and West must obtain a RDCO business licence before operating or advertising and comply with both provincial and local requirements.

Under the new short-term rental rules for Electoral Areas East and West:

• Short-term rentals are allowed in a house, a room in a house or a legal secondary suite in residential zones within an RDCO fire protection area, and in tourist cabins within designated commercial tourist zones.
• Only one short-term rental is permitted per property, limited to a maximum of four bedrooms and up to eight guests per booking.
• Short-term rentals are not permitted in accessory dwellings, recreational vehicles, yurts or tents.
• Eligible properties must meet fire and life safety standards, provide at least one dedicated off-street parking space, and display an RDCO-issued contact information sign.
• A designated operator or representative must be available 24 hours a day and able to respond to complaints within two hours.

Operators are responsible for fulfilling their licensing requirements and operating responsibly within their neighbourhoods. Updated bylaws have also put in place new enforcement measures for the RDCO to address concerns, issue fines and, if necessary, revoke a short‑term rental business licence.

Residents interested in operating a short-term rental in Electoral Areas East and West are encouraged to review eligibility requirements and begin preparing their application materials. Residents can find application materials, the short-term rental operator guidebook and full program details at rdco.com/STR.