B.C. to bring in new rules on short-term rentals to create more housing
VICTORIA — The B.C. government has introduced legislation that would rein in what it says is a rapidly expanding short-term rental market.
Premier David Eby says the number of short-term rentals has ballooned in recent years and the government is taking action to reduce “profit-driven mini-hotel operators” by bringing in new enforcement tools.
Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon introduced the bill in the legislature today, saying there has been “an explosion” of short-term rental units and this legislation will target areas with high housing needs.
The legislation would force short-term rental platforms to share their data with the province for enforcement and tax purposes, and would limit short-term rentals to within a host’s own home, or a basement suite or laneway home on their property.