Short Term Rental Project

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The City is seeking to complete an update to its Short Term Rental regulations. This section of TalkRevelstoke will inform you of key upcoming dates on things like Council meeting and public engagement as it relates to the Short Term Rental Project. In addition, check out the "Short Term Rental Documents" section of this page to stay up to date with things like Council reports, presentations, and other pertinent documents related to Short Term Rental.

Public engagement details are now available and you can sign up to provide feedback through interactive group sessions. Six (6) sessions will be held, with four (4) in person and two (2) online. If you aren’t able to attend any sessions, no worries, a public survey is available to complete that will be open until February 13, 2026. To sign up for an interactive group session, email building@revelstoke.ca or call 250-837-3637 with your name, email, along with the time you are requesting to join. Spaces are limited to ensure constructive discussion, so we request no more than one individual per household attends. More information about the public engagement events and survey is provided below.

Click here to access the public survey that is available until end of day, February 13, 2026.

Looking for more information? Sign up for email updates, review the contents of this page, and signup for the City’s newsletter. If you have done all of this and are still keen to learn more, please contact the project manager by emailing str@revelstoke.ca

Public Engagement Details

The City will be hosting interactive group sessions to gather feedback from the community about the opportunities and risks associated with three policy scenarios that have been developed, detailing how Short Term Rentals can be managed in our community. Four sessions will be held in person, and two will be held online. 16 spaces are available for each in person session, and 20 spaces are available for each online session. The sessions will be 1.5 hours in length, and structured with a brief 10 minute presentation by staff, followed up facilitated group discussion about each policy scenario. Details of each policy scenario are provided below.

The sessions will be held during the following times:

Monday January 26: 10:00AM-11:30 AM (Macpherson Room, Revelstoke Community Centre)
Monday January 26: 6:30 PM-8:00 PM (Macpherson Room, Revelstoke Community Centre)
Wednesday January 28: 10:00AM-11:30AM (Macpherson Room, Revelstoke Community Centre)
Wednesday January 28: 6:30 PM-8:00 PM (Macpherson Room, Revelstoke Community Centre)
Monday February 2: 10:00AM-11:30 AM (ONLINE)
Tuesday February 3: 6:30 PM-8:00 PM (ONLINE)

Staff will compile notes from each engagement session for reporting to Council. The intent of the interactive group sessions is for staff to understand the opportunities and risks so that when bylaws are drafted, these items can be accounted for to mitigate impacts and maximize opportunities.

In addition to the interactive group sessions, a public survey will be available until February 13, 2026. The survey is available for all members of the community, including those that attend the interactive group sessions. The intent of the survey is to allow the community to provide specific feedback under each scenario and highlight which scenario they think is most suitable for Revelstoke.

Policy Scenario Summary

On November 13, 2025, Staff presented three (3) revised policy scenarios for how Short Term Rental can be regulated in Revelstoke based on feedback from Council at the October 16, 2025 Committee of the Whole meeting. A high level summary of the three policy scenarios is provided below. The staff report from November 13, 2025 that includes more details is available in the document section of this page.

Policy Scenario #1: Allow Short Term Rentals (with a principal resident requirement) in all low-density residential areas of the City
Policy Scenario #2: Allow Short Term Rentals (with a principal resident requirement) in specific low-density residential areas of the City that are deemed more suitable for this type of business
Policy Scenario #3: Allow Short Term Rentals (with a principal resident requirement) in all low-density residential areas of the City, with a maximum cap on the number of licenses issued

Under each policy scenario, regulations pertaining to 24/7 property management, parking, good neighbour agreements, and advertising will be required. Staff continue to work with the project team to develop an economic / housing impact model to better understand the implications for the community associated with each policy scenario.

Previous Project Updates

Between October 2024 and February 2025, staff had worked on completing background research for the project while the Development Services department was wrapping up the Zoning bylaw Comprehensive Re-Write Project. This resulted in a comparative analysis against other resort municipality short term rental regulations, which you can find in the document section of this page. Staff prepared a short summary of this analysis and a more comprehensive summary.
The City had a successful initial Public Information Meeting on February 26 where the community learnt more about the project and had the opportunity to ask questions. Missed the meeting? No worries it was livestreamed and can be viewed on the City of Revelstoke Youtube page. Staff have answered all questions asked and have prepared a Questions and Answers sheet.
The City wishes to extend its appreciation to all community members who participated in the public survey that closed March 31, 2025. In total, 517 individuals completed the survey, with the vast majority being permanent residents of Revelstoke. The results of the survey have been posted to the documents section of this page.
Staff presented a report to Council on April 22, 2025 outlining potential goals for the Short Term Rental project. The staff report and presentation are uploaded to the documents center of this page.
On May 13, 2025, Council endorsed the following goal for the Short Term Rental project: To allow permanent residents in Revelstoke to participate in the tourism economy by utilizing a “made in Revelstoke” solution while accounting for the unique needs of the community as a resort municipality
On October 16, 2025, staff presented a report to Committee of the Whole (Council) outlining the high level principles associated with three policy scenarios for how Revelstoke could manage Short Term Rentals into the future. Council provided feedback on the scenarios, which were revised and brought back for Council consideration in November 2025. Council directed that staff undertake public engagement in the new year. The staff report is available in the document section of this page.
On November 13, 2025, Staff presented three (3) revised policy scenarios for how Short Term Rental can be regulated in Revelstoke based on feedback from Council at the October 16, 2025 Committee of the Whole meeting. A high level summary of the three policy scenarios is provided below. The staff report from November 13, 2025 that includes more details is available in the document section of this page.

In a Hurry? Here is What You Need to Know!

The City is completing a review of its Short Term Rental regulatory framework and needs feedback from the community!

Short Term Rental refers to the use of a dwelling unit on a temporary basis (less than 30 days at any one time) for the financial benefit of the property owner to provide accommodation to the traveling public. Short Term Rental differs from a Bed and Breakfast in that a Short Term Rental involves the renting of an entire dwelling unit (whether that’s a single-detached home, condo, or secondary suite), whereas a Bed and Breakfast involves renting rooms within a single-detached home that is occupied by a principal resident.

Revelstoke updated its Short Term Rental regulations in April 2022, clarifying where this use is permitted, expanding allowances in the downtown area and Hay Road area. In October 2023, the Province of BC enacted the Short Term Rental Accommodations Act, giving municipalities more tools to regulate Short Term Rental. In October 2024, Council directed staff to review potential updates to the City’s existing Short Term Rental regulations in light of the new legislation. Through 2025, staff will work to complete public engagement, research with other municipalities in BC, and economic analysis guide any potential bylaw changes. The general phasing of the project is outlined below:

Overview of the Project

The City of Revelstoke is completing a comprehensive review of its Short Term Rental regulations. The project is anticipated to take approximately 12 months to complete and will be using internal resources at the City with some external consultant support to complete an economic analysis.

The scope of the STR review includes:

Review of existing STR regulations to identify complexities that can be streamlined;
Review of options to regulate STR with a focus on regulations for whole home rentals and those where they are operated by a permanent resident onsite operator, accounting for recent changes introduced by the Province through Bill 35;
Public engagement to inform the community of the new provincial legislation, existing STR regulations, and to gather feedback on what the desired intent of STRs; and
Review options for regulating STR and present to Council for feedback to be embedded via bylaw.

The objectives of the project include:

Improve community understanding of the existing Short Term Rental regulatory framework, the provincial legislation, as well as the implications for opting into the permanent residency requirement.
Provide objective information to council and the community on the implications associated with significant restrictions on STR including but not limited to opting into the permanent residency requirement under the Short Term Rental Accommodations Act.
Establish a clear objective of what the community is seeking to achieve by updating Short Term Rental regulations.
Create a more clear and comprehensive STR regulatory framework in Revelstoke.

How will the public be engaged?

The public engagement strategy is multi-faceted for this project. Staff have developed a project management plan that allows for ample time for the community to provide feedback at key milestones. Below provides specific details and the estimated timing of major public engagement events. While the intent is to follow the engagement process as shown below, these tactics and specific timing of events may be subject to change as the project progresses to ensure that the community has sufficient time to be informed and work with staff to provide feedback. Staff will update TalkRevelstoke should there be any changes to the engagement strategy or timing. In addition to the items below, the City will use the community newsletter, social media, mailouts, newspaper advertisements, Committee of the Whole updates, online surveys, online Q & As, and the Mayor’s YouTube videos to increase awareness about the project and key events.

February 26, 2025: Initial Public Information Meeting that will be held in-person at the Revelstoke Community & Aquatic Centre, MP3 Room (600 Campbell Avenue) as well as online. This meeting was livestreamed provided opportunity for the community to become informed about the project, understand the key milestones and engagement activities, and to ask questions.
February – March 2025: Initial community survey to gather high level feedback about what the community is seeking to achieve by regulating Short Term Rental in Revelstoke.
Fall 2025 / Winter 2026: Targeted stakeholder engagement with operators, hoteliers, tourist accommodation industry, City commissions etc. and broader community engagement through Public Information Meetings, surveys (as needed) to gauge support for draft bylaw amendments in advance of formal Council consideration.

Latest News

Click here to access the public survey that is available until end of day, February 13, 2026.

Public Engagement Details

The sessions will be held during the following times:

Monday January 26: 10:00AM-11:30 AM (Macpherson Room, Revelstoke Community Centre)
Monday January 26: 6:30 PM-8:00 PM (Macpherson Room, Revelstoke Community Centre)
Wednesday January 28: 10:00AM-11:30AM (Macpherson Room, Revelstoke Community Centre)
Wednesday January 28: 6:30 PM-8:00 PM (Macpherson Room, Revelstoke Community Centre)
Monday February 2: 10:00AM-11:30 AM (ONLINE)
Tuesday February 3: 6:30 PM-8:00 PM (ONLINE)

Policy Scenario Summary

Policy Scenario #1: Allow Short Term Rentals (with a principal resident requirement) in all low-density residential areas of the City
Policy Scenario #2: Allow Short Term Rentals (with a principal resident requirement) in specific low-density residential areas of the City that are deemed more suitable for this type of business
Policy Scenario #3: Allow Short Term Rentals (with a principal resident requirement) in all low-density residential areas of the City, with a maximum cap on the number of licenses issued

Previous Project Updates

Between October 2024 and February 2025, staff had worked on completing background research for the project while the Development Services department was wrapping up the Zoning bylaw Comprehensive Re-Write Project. This resulted in a comparative analysis against other resort municipality short term rental regulations, which you can find in the document section of this page. Staff prepared a short summary of this analysis and a more comprehensive summary.
The City had a successful initial Public Information Meeting on February 26 where the community learnt more about the project and had the opportunity to ask questions. Missed the meeting? No worries it was livestreamed and can be viewed on the City of Revelstoke Youtube page. Staff have answered all questions asked and have prepared a Questions and Answers sheet.
The City wishes to extend its appreciation to all community members who participated in the public survey that closed March 31, 2025. In total, 517 individuals completed the survey, with the vast majority being permanent residents of Revelstoke. The results of the survey have been posted to the documents section of this page.
Staff presented a report to Council on April 22, 2025 outlining potential goals for the Short Term Rental project. The staff report and presentation are uploaded to the documents center of this page.
On May 13, 2025, Council endorsed the following goal for the Short Term Rental project: To allow permanent residents in Revelstoke to participate in the tourism economy by utilizing a “made in Revelstoke” solution while accounting for the unique needs of the community as a resort municipality
On October 16, 2025, staff presented a report to Committee of the Whole (Council) outlining the high level principles associated with three policy scenarios for how Revelstoke could manage Short Term Rentals into the future. Council provided feedback on the scenarios, which were revised and brought back for Council consideration in November 2025. Council directed that staff undertake public engagement in the new year. The staff report is available in the document section of this page.
On November 13, 2025, Staff presented three (3) revised policy scenarios for how Short Term Rental can be regulated in Revelstoke based on feedback from Council at the October 16, 2025 Committee of the Whole meeting. A high level summary of the three policy scenarios is provided below. The staff report from November 13, 2025 that includes more details is available in the document section of this page.

In a Hurry? Here is What You Need to Know!

The City is completing a review of its Short Term Rental regulatory framework and needs feedback from the community!

Overview of the Project

The scope of the STR review includes:

Review of existing STR regulations to identify complexities that can be streamlined;
Review of options to regulate STR with a focus on regulations for whole home rentals and those where they are operated by a permanent resident onsite operator, accounting for recent changes introduced by the Province through Bill 35;
Public engagement to inform the community of the new provincial legislation, existing STR regulations, and to gather feedback on what the desired intent of STRs; and
Review options for regulating STR and present to Council for feedback to be embedded via bylaw.

The objectives of the project include:

Improve community understanding of the existing Short Term Rental regulatory framework, the provincial legislation, as well as the implications for opting into the permanent residency requirement.
Provide objective information to council and the community on the implications associated with significant restrictions on STR including but not limited to opting into the permanent residency requirement under the Short Term Rental Accommodations Act.
Establish a clear objective of what the community is seeking to achieve by updating Short Term Rental regulations.
Create a more clear and comprehensive STR regulatory framework in Revelstoke.

How will the public be engaged?

February 26, 2025: Initial Public Information Meeting that will be held in-person at the Revelstoke Community & Aquatic Centre, MP3 Room (600 Campbell Avenue) as well as online. This meeting was livestreamed provided opportunity for the community to become informed about the project, understand the key milestones and engagement activities, and to ask questions.
February – March 2025: Initial community survey to gather high level feedback about what the community is seeking to achieve by regulating Short Term Rental in Revelstoke.
Fall 2025 / Winter 2026: Targeted stakeholder engagement with operators, hoteliers, tourist accommodation industry, City commissions etc. and broader community engagement through Public Information Meetings, surveys (as needed) to gauge support for draft bylaw amendments in advance of formal Council consideration.

Have a Question? Post it here!

Ask a question about the project and staff will be happy to respond.

Share 1.Why does the public engagement framework not include a policy scenario that maintains or strengthens existing short-term rental restrictions, rather than assuming some form of expansion into residential areas? 2. How is the City reconciling the proposed expansion or normalization of short-term rentals in residential neighbourhoods with a housing-first approach, given ongoing housing shortages, low rental vacancy rates, and rising rents? 3. Housing research shows that rental vacancy rates below approximately 3% drive rent inflation and housing insecurity. What vacancy rate or housing condition threshold would justify expanding short-term rentals in residential areas? 4. How do the proposed policy scenarios protect housing availability for local workers, families, seniors, and people on fixed incomes who are most affected by housing scarcity and cost-of-living pressures?? 5. If short-term rental licenses are expanded or capped city-wide, what mechanisms exist to reduce or reverse those permissions if housing conditions worsen over time? on Facebook Share 1.Why does the public engagement framework not include a policy scenario that maintains or strengthens existing short-term rental restrictions, rather than assuming some form of expansion into residential areas? 2. How is the City reconciling the proposed expansion or normalization of short-term rentals in residential neighbourhoods with a housing-first approach, given ongoing housing shortages, low rental vacancy rates, and rising rents? 3. Housing research shows that rental vacancy rates below approximately 3% drive rent inflation and housing insecurity. What vacancy rate or housing condition threshold would justify expanding short-term rentals in residential areas? 4. How do the proposed policy scenarios protect housing availability for local workers, families, seniors, and people on fixed incomes who are most affected by housing scarcity and cost-of-living pressures?? 5. If short-term rental licenses are expanded or capped city-wide, what mechanisms exist to reduce or reverse those permissions if housing conditions worsen over time? on Twitter Share 1.Why does the public engagement framework not include a policy scenario that maintains or strengthens existing short-term rental restrictions, rather than assuming some form of expansion into residential areas? 2. How is the City reconciling the proposed expansion or normalization of short-term rentals in residential neighbourhoods with a housing-first approach, given ongoing housing shortages, low rental vacancy rates, and rising rents? 3. Housing research shows that rental vacancy rates below approximately 3% drive rent inflation and housing insecurity. What vacancy rate or housing condition threshold would justify expanding short-term rentals in residential areas? 4. How do the proposed policy scenarios protect housing availability for local workers, families, seniors, and people on fixed incomes who are most affected by housing scarcity and cost-of-living pressures?? 5. If short-term rental licenses are expanded or capped city-wide, what mechanisms exist to reduce or reverse those permissions if housing conditions worsen over time? on Linkedin Email 1.Why does the public engagement framework not include a policy scenario that maintains or strengthens existing short-term rental restrictions, rather than assuming some form of expansion into residential areas? 2. How is the City reconciling the proposed expansion or normalization of short-term rentals in residential neighbourhoods with a housing-first approach, given ongoing housing shortages, low rental vacancy rates, and rising rents? 3. Housing research shows that rental vacancy rates below approximately 3% drive rent inflation and housing insecurity. What vacancy rate or housing condition threshold would justify expanding short-term rentals in residential areas? 4. How do the proposed policy scenarios protect housing availability for local workers, families, seniors, and people on fixed incomes who are most affected by housing scarcity and cost-of-living pressures?? 5. If short-term rental licenses are expanded or capped city-wide, what mechanisms exist to reduce or reverse those permissions if housing conditions worsen over time? link

1.Why does the public engagement framework not include a policy scenario that maintains or strengthens existing short-term rental restrictions, rather than assuming some form of expansion into residential areas? 2. How is the City reconciling the proposed expansion or normalization of short-term rentals in residential neighbourhoods with a housing-first approach, given ongoing housing shortages, low rental vacancy rates, and rising rents? 3. Housing research shows that rental vacancy rates below approximately 3% drive rent inflation and housing insecurity. What vacancy rate or housing condition threshold would justify expanding short-term rentals in residential areas? 4. How do the proposed policy scenarios protect housing availability for local workers, families, seniors, and people on fixed incomes who are most affected by housing scarcity and cost-of-living pressures?? 5. If short-term rental licenses are expanded or capped city-wide, what mechanisms exist to reduce or reverse those permissions if housing conditions worsen over time?

Christine Hewitt asked 24 days ago

Hi Christine,
Thank-you for reaching out with your thoughtful question.
1) We recommend reviewing prior Council reports posted on TalkRevelstoke to familiarize yourself with the progress that was made based on prior engagement and Council direction to establish the current policy scenarios. When completing the survey, there is an option to indicate that you don't support any of the scenarios and to explain what would be supported.
2) While significant progress regarding purpose built rental has been made in the community over the past 2-3 years, you are correct that this is a challenge with any updates to short term rental regulations. While Revelstoke is a resort municipality with an in-demand tourism sector, striking an appropriate balance between housing needs and tourism is critical. Short term rentals play a role here - they can help provide income support to local residents to manage the cost of housing, but they also have the potential to increase the cost of housing. Understanding tradeoffs becomes important in and final decisions that are made. When excluding site-specific zones (resort lands, mackenzie village), 4.9% of all dwellings in the City are currently permitted to be used as a STR (half of which currently have a principal residence requirement), with approximately 0.9% of all dwellings in the City (excluding those site-specific zones) operating as a STR. When excluding these site specific zones, the vast majority of housing in traditional residential neighbourhoods is used for long-term occupancy.
3) As the City is under 10,000 in population, vacancy data is not collected consistently or reliably for Revelstoke so it becomes a challenging benchmark to use. The numbers above when we look at how many dwellings are eligible to be used as a STR and how many are operating as such become important benchmarks.
4) Managing STRs is one of many tools in the toolkit for providing housing in the community, but should not be viewed as the silver bullet for providing housing for all community members (the numbers above show that if we restrict STR significantly, it will not provide the housing that Revelstoke needs). It will take implementation of various tools over many years to see meaningful progress on housing. As of late, some of the items that the City has completed to provide housing includes: supporting non-profit housing through direct funding and municipal land disposition (see Policy DS-25 and DS-26 for more details); strengthen protections for tenants and residents in manufactured homes; comprehensive inventory of all City land for affordable housing; completion of a master plan to guide development of 400 homes on City land; and the adoption of a Official Community Plan, Zoning Bylaw and Development Cost Charges bylaw that incentivizes the creation of a larger quantity of smaller units for market housing (as opposed to a smaller quantity of larger homes that Revelstoke has historically seen, putting housing out of reach for many). We have seen more housing built, but more work still needs to be done into the future implementing all of the tools available at the local level.
5) Council has the ability to change zoning regulations which would rescind historic approvals for STRs. Under new provincial legislation, these properties would not be "grandfathered" (i.e. qualify as a legal non-conforming use) and would be required to comply with the new regulations.
Share Good morning, thank you Paul for sending the update on STRs. I appreciate the understanding on this important topic. I noted at the beginning of the document that requests council provide direction on the allowing of STRs in the downtown and adjacent areas to downtown. In reviewing the 3 scenarios it appears that this is still missing or have I missed something? I would also comment that it has been a couple of years and there has been significant forward movement to provide more employee housing. Will this be factored into the final discussions. on Facebook Share Good morning, thank you Paul for sending the update on STRs. I appreciate the understanding on this important topic. I noted at the beginning of the document that requests council provide direction on the allowing of STRs in the downtown and adjacent areas to downtown. In reviewing the 3 scenarios it appears that this is still missing or have I missed something? I would also comment that it has been a couple of years and there has been significant forward movement to provide more employee housing. Will this be factored into the final discussions. on Twitter Share Good morning, thank you Paul for sending the update on STRs. I appreciate the understanding on this important topic. I noted at the beginning of the document that requests council provide direction on the allowing of STRs in the downtown and adjacent areas to downtown. In reviewing the 3 scenarios it appears that this is still missing or have I missed something? I would also comment that it has been a couple of years and there has been significant forward movement to provide more employee housing. Will this be factored into the final discussions. on Linkedin Email Good morning, thank you Paul for sending the update on STRs. I appreciate the understanding on this important topic. I noted at the beginning of the document that requests council provide direction on the allowing of STRs in the downtown and adjacent areas to downtown. In reviewing the 3 scenarios it appears that this is still missing or have I missed something? I would also comment that it has been a couple of years and there has been significant forward movement to provide more employee housing. Will this be factored into the final discussions. link

Good morning, thank you Paul for sending the update on STRs. I appreciate the understanding on this important topic. I noted at the beginning of the document that requests council provide direction on the allowing of STRs in the downtown and adjacent areas to downtown. In reviewing the 3 scenarios it appears that this is still missing or have I missed something? I would also comment that it has been a couple of years and there has been significant forward movement to provide more employee housing. Will this be factored into the final discussions.

Steven Hui asked 3 months ago

Hi Steven,
Thanks for the question. There has been significant increase in employee accommodation within the community including 167 purpose built rental dwelling units (apartment buildings) that have received occupancy over the past 12 months.
As part of the most recent COTW discussion and presentation, it appears that for now (notwithstanding significant pubic feedback as to why expanded STR in downtown/surrounding commercial areas is in the public interest), that the rules as they exist for the downtown and adjacent areas will remain as is. That said, we encourage everyone to participate in future engagement events to provide feedback that can be used in crafting City bylaws.
Thanks for the question,
Paul
Share Policy Scenario #1 appears to include both R-LD1 and R-LD2 zones, whereas Scenario #2 appears to exclude R-LD2. R-LD2 zoned lots are beside or across the street from R-LD1 lots and the size of lots and existing types and sizes of homes in most cases are equivalent to R-LD1. When there is a single R-LD2 lot surrounded by R-LD1 lots or R-LD2 is beside R-LD1, how is that a different "area" of the City as described in the City Staff Report Nov. 13, 2025 page 3 under Policy Scenario #2 "it would only be permitted in specific areas of the City where the impact associated with the STR use is anticipated to be minimal."? Stating that R-LD2 is in different areas of the City is not correct. Equally there are individual R-LD1 lots surrounded by or beside R-LD2 or other zones and those would be permitted for STR under Scenario #2 which is incongruous with the statement in the Nov. 13, 2025 City Staff report "specific areas of the City where the impact associated with the STR use is anticipated to be minimal." Thank you for your response. on Facebook Share Policy Scenario #1 appears to include both R-LD1 and R-LD2 zones, whereas Scenario #2 appears to exclude R-LD2. R-LD2 zoned lots are beside or across the street from R-LD1 lots and the size of lots and existing types and sizes of homes in most cases are equivalent to R-LD1. When there is a single R-LD2 lot surrounded by R-LD1 lots or R-LD2 is beside R-LD1, how is that a different "area" of the City as described in the City Staff Report Nov. 13, 2025 page 3 under Policy Scenario #2 "it would only be permitted in specific areas of the City where the impact associated with the STR use is anticipated to be minimal."? Stating that R-LD2 is in different areas of the City is not correct. Equally there are individual R-LD1 lots surrounded by or beside R-LD2 or other zones and those would be permitted for STR under Scenario #2 which is incongruous with the statement in the Nov. 13, 2025 City Staff report "specific areas of the City where the impact associated with the STR use is anticipated to be minimal." Thank you for your response. on Twitter Share Policy Scenario #1 appears to include both R-LD1 and R-LD2 zones, whereas Scenario #2 appears to exclude R-LD2. R-LD2 zoned lots are beside or across the street from R-LD1 lots and the size of lots and existing types and sizes of homes in most cases are equivalent to R-LD1. When there is a single R-LD2 lot surrounded by R-LD1 lots or R-LD2 is beside R-LD1, how is that a different "area" of the City as described in the City Staff Report Nov. 13, 2025 page 3 under Policy Scenario #2 "it would only be permitted in specific areas of the City where the impact associated with the STR use is anticipated to be minimal."? Stating that R-LD2 is in different areas of the City is not correct. Equally there are individual R-LD1 lots surrounded by or beside R-LD2 or other zones and those would be permitted for STR under Scenario #2 which is incongruous with the statement in the Nov. 13, 2025 City Staff report "specific areas of the City where the impact associated with the STR use is anticipated to be minimal." Thank you for your response. on Linkedin Email Policy Scenario #1 appears to include both R-LD1 and R-LD2 zones, whereas Scenario #2 appears to exclude R-LD2. R-LD2 zoned lots are beside or across the street from R-LD1 lots and the size of lots and existing types and sizes of homes in most cases are equivalent to R-LD1. When there is a single R-LD2 lot surrounded by R-LD1 lots or R-LD2 is beside R-LD1, how is that a different "area" of the City as described in the City Staff Report Nov. 13, 2025 page 3 under Policy Scenario #2 "it would only be permitted in specific areas of the City where the impact associated with the STR use is anticipated to be minimal."? Stating that R-LD2 is in different areas of the City is not correct. Equally there are individual R-LD1 lots surrounded by or beside R-LD2 or other zones and those would be permitted for STR under Scenario #2 which is incongruous with the statement in the Nov. 13, 2025 City Staff report "specific areas of the City where the impact associated with the STR use is anticipated to be minimal." Thank you for your response. link

Policy Scenario #1 appears to include both R-LD1 and R-LD2 zones, whereas Scenario #2 appears to exclude R-LD2. R-LD2 zoned lots are beside or across the street from R-LD1 lots and the size of lots and existing types and sizes of homes in most cases are equivalent to R-LD1. When there is a single R-LD2 lot surrounded by R-LD1 lots or R-LD2 is beside R-LD1, how is that a different "area" of the City as described in the City Staff Report Nov. 13, 2025 page 3 under Policy Scenario #2 "it would only be permitted in specific areas of the City where the impact associated with the STR use is anticipated to be minimal."? Stating that R-LD2 is in different areas of the City is not correct. Equally there are individual R-LD1 lots surrounded by or beside R-LD2 or other zones and those would be permitted for STR under Scenario #2 which is incongruous with the statement in the Nov. 13, 2025 City Staff report "specific areas of the City where the impact associated with the STR use is anticipated to be minimal." Thank you for your response.

email.gjm asked about 2 months ago

Hello,
Thank-you for your question. Please keep in mind at this time these are high level policy options. We will still need to gather public feedback that will help shape the actual proposed amending bylaws that get into the detail on how zones are changing.

Scenario 2 could involve creation of a new zone, or expanding the R-LD6 zone to site-specific areas. It could also involve a land use overlay to the low density residential zones that could potentially incorporate R-LD1 and R-LD2 directly embedded into the zoning bylaw. At this time it is better to think about these at a high level in terms of what approach makes the most sense for Revelstoke from a strategic perspective. The actual amending bylaws where we get into the specifics of how zones could be impacted has not yet been prepared.
If you want to chat further on this, please email str@revelstoke.ca and we can set up a time to discuss over the phone so that we can provide some clarity towards the questions you have.
Thanks for the question!
Paul
Share How likely is it that STRs might not be allowed in Mackenzie Village? Is that under consideration? on Facebook Share How likely is it that STRs might not be allowed in Mackenzie Village? Is that under consideration? on Twitter Share How likely is it that STRs might not be allowed in Mackenzie Village? Is that under consideration? on Linkedin Email How likely is it that STRs might not be allowed in Mackenzie Village? Is that under consideration? link

How likely is it that STRs might not be allowed in Mackenzie Village? Is that under consideration?

MCP asked 4 months ago

Hello,
Mackenzie Village operates under what is called a comprehensive development (CD) zone. This is a site specific zone that has specific allowances for short term rental. While Council has land use authority to change zoning allowances under provincial legislation, thus far in the project there has been no direction for staff to alter development rights within CD zones. We recommend following this project so you can review the proposed changes to short term rental regulations in Revelstoke as they are drafted to provide feedback.
Thanks for the question,
Paul Simon
Share Why are BnB's prohibited from operating in conjunction with secondary suites? Question repeated due to un-satisfactory response. Consider this scenario... A homeowner occupies their primary suite and chooses to rent their secondary suite to one individual (John). The secondary suite has 2 bedrooms. One bedroom is occupied by John and the other bedroom is vacant. John wishes to share his home with one temporary occupant. Why is John prohibited from operating his dwelling as a BnB? John's dwelling cannot be legally separated from the main unit, therefore should be classified as a single family dwelling. Definintion: "A secondary suite is a complete living unit with its own kitchen, sleeping area, and washroom facilities contained within another dwelling. The two dwelling units (the primary residence and the secondary suite) and any common spaces make up a single real estate entity. A secondary suite cannot be stratified or otherwise legally separated from the main unit." Source: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/secondary-suites on Facebook Share Why are BnB's prohibited from operating in conjunction with secondary suites? Question repeated due to un-satisfactory response. Consider this scenario... A homeowner occupies their primary suite and chooses to rent their secondary suite to one individual (John). The secondary suite has 2 bedrooms. One bedroom is occupied by John and the other bedroom is vacant. John wishes to share his home with one temporary occupant. Why is John prohibited from operating his dwelling as a BnB? John's dwelling cannot be legally separated from the main unit, therefore should be classified as a single family dwelling. Definintion: "A secondary suite is a complete living unit with its own kitchen, sleeping area, and washroom facilities contained within another dwelling. The two dwelling units (the primary residence and the secondary suite) and any common spaces make up a single real estate entity. A secondary suite cannot be stratified or otherwise legally separated from the main unit." Source: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/secondary-suites on Twitter Share Why are BnB's prohibited from operating in conjunction with secondary suites? Question repeated due to un-satisfactory response. Consider this scenario... A homeowner occupies their primary suite and chooses to rent their secondary suite to one individual (John). The secondary suite has 2 bedrooms. One bedroom is occupied by John and the other bedroom is vacant. John wishes to share his home with one temporary occupant. Why is John prohibited from operating his dwelling as a BnB? John's dwelling cannot be legally separated from the main unit, therefore should be classified as a single family dwelling. Definintion: "A secondary suite is a complete living unit with its own kitchen, sleeping area, and washroom facilities contained within another dwelling. The two dwelling units (the primary residence and the secondary suite) and any common spaces make up a single real estate entity. A secondary suite cannot be stratified or otherwise legally separated from the main unit." Source: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/secondary-suites on Linkedin Email Why are BnB's prohibited from operating in conjunction with secondary suites? Question repeated due to un-satisfactory response. Consider this scenario... A homeowner occupies their primary suite and chooses to rent their secondary suite to one individual (John). The secondary suite has 2 bedrooms. One bedroom is occupied by John and the other bedroom is vacant. John wishes to share his home with one temporary occupant. Why is John prohibited from operating his dwelling as a BnB? John's dwelling cannot be legally separated from the main unit, therefore should be classified as a single family dwelling. Definintion: "A secondary suite is a complete living unit with its own kitchen, sleeping area, and washroom facilities contained within another dwelling. The two dwelling units (the primary residence and the secondary suite) and any common spaces make up a single real estate entity. A secondary suite cannot be stratified or otherwise legally separated from the main unit." Source: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/secondary-suites link

Why are BnB's prohibited from operating in conjunction with secondary suites? Question repeated due to un-satisfactory response. Consider this scenario... A homeowner occupies their primary suite and chooses to rent their secondary suite to one individual (John). The secondary suite has 2 bedrooms. One bedroom is occupied by John and the other bedroom is vacant. John wishes to share his home with one temporary occupant. Why is John prohibited from operating his dwelling as a BnB? John's dwelling cannot be legally separated from the main unit, therefore should be classified as a single family dwelling. Definintion: "A secondary suite is a complete living unit with its own kitchen, sleeping area, and washroom facilities contained within another dwelling. The two dwelling units (the primary residence and the secondary suite) and any common spaces make up a single real estate entity. A secondary suite cannot be stratified or otherwise legally separated from the main unit." Source: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/secondary-suites

JM asked 9 months ago

Hello JM,
As indicated in the prior response, this would change the use from a B&B to a short term rental (STR), which may not be permitted in your zoning. If STR is not permitted in your zoning, then you cannot undertake that use. See the definition of short term renal and B&B in the zoning bylaw for further information (remember, a B&B is out of the single family dwelling - STR is out of a separate dwelling unit that is self contained, which includes a secondary suite). Some zones in the City do allow a secondary suite to be used as a short term rental, please refer to the short term rental factsheet on the City's webpage for more information on the different rules for STR in different zones.
If you think a STR should be permitted in a secondary suite in all standard residential zones the same way a B&B is permitted, it is recommended that you participate as part of this process to provide feedback to this effect. The public survey closed March 31, and there will be further opportunities for specific engagement. I also recommend posting this in the ideas tool of TalkRevelstoke so other community members can comment on the idea.
Under zoning and BCBC, a secondary suite is not classified as a single-family dwelling. It is its own separate use. And yes, you are correct, a title cannot be raised for a secondary suite. This would make the building a two-unit dwelling under zoning regulations, and have implications for code compliance (fire separation etc.).
Regards,
Paul
Share Two questions: 1. Why are BnB's prohibited from operating in conjunction with secondary suites? 2. Do any by-laws currently exist to restrict off-street parking requirements per bedroom for long term rentals, and how are they enforced? on Facebook Share Two questions: 1. Why are BnB's prohibited from operating in conjunction with secondary suites? 2. Do any by-laws currently exist to restrict off-street parking requirements per bedroom for long term rentals, and how are they enforced? on Twitter Share Two questions: 1. Why are BnB's prohibited from operating in conjunction with secondary suites? 2. Do any by-laws currently exist to restrict off-street parking requirements per bedroom for long term rentals, and how are they enforced? on Linkedin Email Two questions: 1. Why are BnB's prohibited from operating in conjunction with secondary suites? 2. Do any by-laws currently exist to restrict off-street parking requirements per bedroom for long term rentals, and how are they enforced? link

Two questions: 1. Why are BnB's prohibited from operating in conjunction with secondary suites? 2. Do any by-laws currently exist to restrict off-street parking requirements per bedroom for long term rentals, and how are they enforced?

JM asked 10 months ago

Hi JM,
Great questions.
1. If a secondary suite is run as a B&B, this would constitute a short term rental use. STR is temporary accommodation in a self-contained dwelling unit, whereas a B&B entails sharing your single family home with temporary occupants.
2. The current use for long term rental (boarding, lodging and rooming house) has minimum parking requirements. Parking would be evaluated as part of a business license, and would be enforced based on complaints.
Have a great week,
Paul
Share As for "Targeted stakeholder engagement with operators", which STR Operators will you be consulting with and in what manner of contact since there is no formal organization of STR Operators? Will all those with active STR licenses be included in the engagement process equal to the hoteliers? on Facebook Share As for "Targeted stakeholder engagement with operators", which STR Operators will you be consulting with and in what manner of contact since there is no formal organization of STR Operators? Will all those with active STR licenses be included in the engagement process equal to the hoteliers? on Twitter Share As for "Targeted stakeholder engagement with operators", which STR Operators will you be consulting with and in what manner of contact since there is no formal organization of STR Operators? Will all those with active STR licenses be included in the engagement process equal to the hoteliers? on Linkedin Email As for "Targeted stakeholder engagement with operators", which STR Operators will you be consulting with and in what manner of contact since there is no formal organization of STR Operators? Will all those with active STR licenses be included in the engagement process equal to the hoteliers? link

As for "Targeted stakeholder engagement with operators", which STR Operators will you be consulting with and in what manner of contact since there is no formal organization of STR Operators? Will all those with active STR licenses be included in the engagement process equal to the hoteliers?

C.S. asked 11 months ago

Hi C.S.,
General operators are invited to participate as part of public engagement events (we have about 240 licenses issued currently with varying requirements for each licensee depending on zoning). Targeted engagement with the Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Revelstoke etc. will be undertaken as part of this project. I note that there are property management companies who are part of these organizations who manage various individual Short Term Rental properties in the City.
Share Is this Short Term Rental Project primarily aimed at addressing the BC Provincial STR legislation for opting in or out, reforming the Municipal Short Term Rental Bylaws, or does it encompass both aspects? on Facebook Share Is this Short Term Rental Project primarily aimed at addressing the BC Provincial STR legislation for opting in or out, reforming the Municipal Short Term Rental Bylaws, or does it encompass both aspects? on Twitter Share Is this Short Term Rental Project primarily aimed at addressing the BC Provincial STR legislation for opting in or out, reforming the Municipal Short Term Rental Bylaws, or does it encompass both aspects? on Linkedin Email Is this Short Term Rental Project primarily aimed at addressing the BC Provincial STR legislation for opting in or out, reforming the Municipal Short Term Rental Bylaws, or does it encompass both aspects? link

Is this Short Term Rental Project primarily aimed at addressing the BC Provincial STR legislation for opting in or out, reforming the Municipal Short Term Rental Bylaws, or does it encompass both aspects?

C.S. asked 11 months ago

Hi C.S.,
The only item that can be opted into with respect to the provincial legislation is the principal residence requirement. All other legislative requirements are applicable for Revelstoke. The project intends to get an understanding from the public and council on what is the community goal with respect to regulating Short Term Rentals. Once this goal is established, then staff can come up with different policy scenarios on how this goal could be accomplished, and complete an economic analysis giving the potential outcomes of each scenario. Depending on feedback received, opting into the principal residence requirement may be part of one policy scenario. The best way to think about the provincial principal residence requirement is as one tool in the toolbox, rather than the main focus of the project. Keep in mind even without opting into the provincial principal residence requirement, we can still implement a local principal residence requirement (which we already do in some parts of the City). A lot of tools to consider in how to best manage Short Term Rentals for Revelstoke!
Share How does the Council and City Staff intend to address the reopening of STR (Short-Term Rental) rules in light of potential economic impacts, such as decreased softwood lumber exports due to looming US tariffs and reduced traffic from CP Rail exports? Is there a concern that revising these regulations could further limit economic opportunities for our community, potentially leading to a ban on STRs? on Facebook Share How does the Council and City Staff intend to address the reopening of STR (Short-Term Rental) rules in light of potential economic impacts, such as decreased softwood lumber exports due to looming US tariffs and reduced traffic from CP Rail exports? Is there a concern that revising these regulations could further limit economic opportunities for our community, potentially leading to a ban on STRs? on Twitter Share How does the Council and City Staff intend to address the reopening of STR (Short-Term Rental) rules in light of potential economic impacts, such as decreased softwood lumber exports due to looming US tariffs and reduced traffic from CP Rail exports? Is there a concern that revising these regulations could further limit economic opportunities for our community, potentially leading to a ban on STRs? on Linkedin Email How does the Council and City Staff intend to address the reopening of STR (Short-Term Rental) rules in light of potential economic impacts, such as decreased softwood lumber exports due to looming US tariffs and reduced traffic from CP Rail exports? Is there a concern that revising these regulations could further limit economic opportunities for our community, potentially leading to a ban on STRs? link

How does the Council and City Staff intend to address the reopening of STR (Short-Term Rental) rules in light of potential economic impacts, such as decreased softwood lumber exports due to looming US tariffs and reduced traffic from CP Rail exports? Is there a concern that revising these regulations could further limit economic opportunities for our community, potentially leading to a ban on STRs?

C.S. asked 11 months ago

Hi C.S.,
This is a great question, and while we don't have a crystal ball on how other items will play out in the economy, completing an economic analysis to better understand the potential impacts of different rules around Short Term Rental is a critical part of this project.
Share What motivated the City to reevaluate the short-term rental (STR) rules and regulations, and will this enable successive Councils and their members to modify these rules every four years? How can we guarantee that these policies, which significantly affect residents, maintain a degree of stability? on Facebook Share What motivated the City to reevaluate the short-term rental (STR) rules and regulations, and will this enable successive Councils and their members to modify these rules every four years? How can we guarantee that these policies, which significantly affect residents, maintain a degree of stability? on Twitter Share What motivated the City to reevaluate the short-term rental (STR) rules and regulations, and will this enable successive Councils and their members to modify these rules every four years? How can we guarantee that these policies, which significantly affect residents, maintain a degree of stability? on Linkedin Email What motivated the City to reevaluate the short-term rental (STR) rules and regulations, and will this enable successive Councils and their members to modify these rules every four years? How can we guarantee that these policies, which significantly affect residents, maintain a degree of stability? link

What motivated the City to reevaluate the short-term rental (STR) rules and regulations, and will this enable successive Councils and their members to modify these rules every four years? How can we guarantee that these policies, which significantly affect residents, maintain a degree of stability?

C.S. asked 11 months ago

Hi C.S.,
The current regulations are under review in accordance with direction received by Council on October 22, 2024. You can check out the staff report and corresponding meeting minutes here. Changes in provincial regulations introduced through Bill 35 which gives municipalities more tools to regulate Short Term Rental was one of the components that triggered a review of CIty regulations.

Page last updated: 08 Dec 2025, 04:10 PM

Short Term Rental Project

Have a Question? Post it here!

How likely is it that STRs might not be allowed in Mackenzie Village? Is that under consideration?

Two questions: 1. Why are BnB's prohibited from operating in conjunction with secondary suites? 2. Do any by-laws currently exist to restrict off-street parking requirements per bedroom for long term rentals, and how are they enforced?

As for "Targeted stakeholder engagement with operators", which STR Operators will you be consulting with and in what manner of contact since there is no formal organization of STR Operators? Will all those with active STR licenses be included in the engagement process equal to the hoteliers?

Is this Short Term Rental Project primarily aimed at addressing the BC Provincial STR legislation for opting in or out, reforming the Municipal Short Term Rental Bylaws, or does it encompass both aspects?

What motivated the City to reevaluate the short-term rental (STR) rules and regulations, and will this enable successive Councils and their members to modify these rules every four years? How can we guarantee that these policies, which significantly affect residents, maintain a degree of stability?

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Lifecycle

Phase 1 - Project Management, Background Review & Initial Engagement

Phase 2 - Scenario Development, Economic Analysis

Phase 3 - Refinement of Scenarios, Bylaw Drafting

Phase 4 - Public launch & Initial Council Consideration

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Short Term Rental Documents (Chronological Order)