Maple Ridge, Canada Short-Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

What are Short-Term Rental (Airbnb, VRBO) Regulations in Maple Ridge, Canada?

Short-term rentals like Airbnb and VRBO have become increasingly popular in Maple Ridge, British Columbia. However, the city has specific regulations in place to ensure these accommodations align with local bylaws and do not negatively impact surrounding neighborhoods. As a real estate expert specializing in short-term rentals, I'll break down the current rules and proposed changes.

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Maple Ridge

Currently, Maple Ridge only allows short-term rentals in the form of licensed Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs) in single-detached homes. To operate legally, hosts must:

• Obtain a business license from the city
• Ensure the property meets all BC Building and Fire Code requirements
• Comply with any strata property rules and regulations, if applicable

Failure to adhere to these regulations can result in penalties. One Redditor warned, "I for one would report any short-term rental to the city the moment it becomes a slight issue."

However, the rise of online booking platforms like Airbnb and VRBO has led to an increase in unlicensed short-term rentals in Maple Ridge. In 2021, there were 134 active listings, jumping to over 220 by early 2024. This has raised concerns about the impact on housing availability and neighborhood livability.

In response, the city is proposing updates to modernize its short-term rental regulations. The draft rules would:

1. Allow short-term rentals in more housing types (e.g., apartments, townhouses)
2. Require rentals to be at the owner's primary residence
3. Limit rentals to a maximum of 6 guests and 3 bedrooms
4. Improve enforcement to ensure rentals are not disruptive to neighbors

These changes aim to strike a balance between supporting tourism and protecting long-term rental supply as Maple Ridge's vacancy rate hovers around 1%.

The province has also introduced new rules, effective May 1, 2024, restricting short-term rentals to principal residences in communities with over 10,000 residents, including Maple Ridge. This is a minimum requirement, and the city's bylaws may be more restrictive.

While some see short-term rentals as an opportunity, with one Redditor saying, "Why is housing crisis my, a common man, issue. It's either this and make some quick $ here and there or we just leave it empty," others argue they take up valuable housing that could support local residents and workers.

As Maple Ridge prepares to host the 2024 BC Summer Games, the lack of licensed accommodations means many visitors will likely stay in neighboring communities. The city is working to attract new hotels, but suitable sites have been challenging to secure.

The bottom line for hosts and guests is to understand and comply with all municipal, provincial, and strata regulations to avoid penalties and ensure a positive experience for everyone. Stay tuned as Maple Ridge finalizes its updated short-term rental bylaw in the coming months.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirements in Maple Ridge

To legally operate a short-term rental in Maple Ridge, property owners must obtain a business license from the city. The proposed licensing requirements aim to ensure STRs are safe for guests and do not negatively impact surrounding neighborhoods. Here's what you need to know:

Key requirements for STR licensing in Maple Ridge:

1. STRs must be the owner's principal residence, where they live for at least 5 months of the year
2. Only one STR is permitted per property
3. STRs are allowed in more housing types under the proposed rules, including apartments and townhouses
4. Maximum of 6 guests and 3 bedrooms
5. Property must meet all BC Building and Fire Code requirements
6. Strata rules and regulations must be followed, if applicable

To apply for an STR business license:

1. Request a pre-application meeting with the Planning Department by emailing the Pre-Application Meeting Request Form to planning@mapleridge.ca or submitting it to the Planning Front Counter at City Hall.

2. After the meeting, submit a complete application package including:

1. Application form
2. Authorized Agent Consent Form (if using an agent)
3. Site Disclosure Statement
4. Other required documents per the Application Submission Checklist

3. Pay the application fee as invoiced by city staff. Fees are payable online.

The city is working to streamline the application process, but timelines can vary depending on the complexity of the proposal. Reach out to the Planning Department for an estimated timeline for your specific case.

Penalties for operating an unlicensed STR in Maple Ridge may include fines and business closure. One Reddit user warned they would "report any short-term rental to the city the moment it becomes a slight issue."

It's crucial for hosts to understand and comply with all municipal, provincial, and strata regulations. The city continues to update its STR bylaws to balance supporting tourism with protecting long-term rental supply. By obtaining proper licensing, STR operators can avoid penalties and help ensure a positive experience for both guests and the surrounding community.

Required Documents for Maple Ridge Short-Term Rentals

To operate a short-term rental in Maple Ridge legally, property owners must submit several documents as part of their business license application. These requirements aim to ensure STRs are safe, accountable, and do not disrupt the surrounding community. Here are the key documents needed:

1. Signed Good Neighbour Agreement: This agreement emphasizes the owner's commitment to maintaining harmony within the community. It outlines expectations around noise, parking, and other potential nuisances.
2. Proof of General Liability Insurance: STR operators must provide evidence of adequate insurance coverage for any unforeseen incidents that may occur on the property.
3. Detailed Property Information: Applicants must submit information such as the number of bedrooms available for guests, an emergency contact name and number, and details on available on-site parking. This helps the city understand the scale and setup of the STR.
4. Strata Council Authorization: For properties that are part of a strata, written permission from the strata council is required to operate an STR.
5. Additional Information or Documents: The License Inspector may request further information or documentation as needed to process the application.

In addition to these application documents, STR operators must also ensure they have the following in place:

1. Emergency Contact Information: A name and number for an emergency contact must be provided to all guests.
2. Fire Safety Plan: A fire safety plan must be visibly posted near all entrances and exits of the STR.
3. Smoke Alarms: Working smoke alarms are required in every bedroom and on each floor of the STR.
4. Fire Extinguisher: An accessible fire extinguisher must be available on each level of the property.
5. Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Carbon monoxide detectors must be installed on every floor to ensure guest safety.

These documents and safety measures can be obtained and prepared by the STR operator. The Good Neighbour Agreement and Property Information forms are provided as part of the business license application package, available on the City of Maple Ridge website.

By gathering and submitting all required documentation, and implementing the necessary safety precautions, STR hosts can ensure they are operating in compliance with the City of Maple Ridge's short-term rental regulations. This not only protects hosts from potential penalties but also helps create a positive experience for guests and neighbors alike.

Maple Ridge Short-Term Rental Taxes

When operating a short-term rental in Maple Ridge, it's essential to understand the various taxes that apply to your business. These taxes contribute to the local economy and are a necessary part of running a compliant STR. Here's a breakdown of the key taxes STR operators in Maple Ridge need to be aware of:

1. Provincial Sales Tax (PST): The PST is a tax applied to the sale of goods and services in British Columbia, including short-term accommodations. STR operators must collect and remit 8% PST on the total price of the accommodation, including any additional charges such as cleaning fees.
2. Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT): The MRDT, also known as the "hotel tax," is a tax levied on short-term accommodations in participating municipalities. In Maple Ridge, the MRDT rate is 2% of the total accommodation price. This tax is used to fund tourism marketing and development initiatives in the region.
3. Goods and Services Tax (GST): The GST is a federal tax that applies to most goods and services in Canada, including short-term rentals. STR operators must collect and remit 5% GST on the total accommodation price.

In total, STR operators in Maple Ridge are required to collect and remit 15% in taxes (8% PST + 2% MRDT + 5% GST) on the total price of the accommodation.

It's important to note that online platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo may collect and remit some of these taxes on behalf of hosts. For example, as of July 1, 2022, Vrbo collects and remits the PST and MRDT for all reservations in British Columbia under 30 nights. However, hosts are ultimately responsible for ensuring they are compliant with all applicable tax laws.

Possible Write-Offs and Deductions

STR operators in Maple Ridge may be eligible for certain write-offs and deductions to help offset the costs of running their business. Some common expenses that may be deductible include:

1. Mortgage interest and property taxes (if the STR is in a portion of your home)
2. Utilities and maintenance costs
3. Cleaning and supplies
4. Insurance premiums
5. Advertising and platform fees
6. Depreciation of furniture and equipment

It's essential to keep accurate records of all income and expenses related to your STR business and consult with a tax professional to ensure you are claiming all eligible deductions.

By understanding and complying with the tax requirements for short-term rentals in Maple Ridge, hosts can avoid penalties, contribute to the local economy, and run a successful and sustainable business.

British Columbia Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

In addition to Maple Ridge's local regulations, short-term rental hosts must also comply with provincial rules that came into effect on May 1, 2024. These new rules, introduced by the B.C. government, aim to return more STR units to the long-term rental market and establish a new provincial role in regulating STRs.

Key provincial requirements for STRs in B.C.:

1. The principal residence requirement restricts STRs to the host's primary residence, plus one additional unit, secondary suite, or laneway/garden suite on the same property in communities with populations over 10,000.
2. Hosts must display a valid business license number where local governments require one.
3. STR platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo must share data with the provincial government and remove listings that do not comply with regulations.
4. Fines for hosts breaking municipal bylaws have increased from $1,000 to $3,000 per infraction, per day.

The Provincial Short-Term Rental Compliance Enforcement Unit, phased in beginning May 1, can conduct investigations into alleged non-compliance, potentially resulting in fines and compliance orders. Fines could range from $500 to $5,000.

These rules apply to over 60 communities across B.C., including Maple Ridge. Some smaller municipalities with populations under 10,000 have opted into the legislation, with the new laws coming into effect on November 1 for those communities.

While the province justifies the new rules as necessary to prioritize housing for residents, critics argue they will hurt the tourism sector and resident hosts who rely on STR income. Airbnb Canada has expressed concerns about the "heavy-handed" and "one-size-fits-all" approach.

Despite these concerns, the B.C. government is moving forward with the regulations. Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon stated, "We need to prioritize housing for people in our communities," and disputed worries about a lack of vacation accommodations, noting principal residences can still be listed and efforts are underway to expand hotel capacity.

Maple Ridge STR hosts must navigate both local and provincial regulations to operate legally and avoid penalties. Staying informed about any updates or changes to these rules is crucial for hosts to remain compliant and successful in their STR businesses.

Does Maple Ridge Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Based on discussions among hosts and residents on platforms like Reddit and BiggerPockets, Maple Ridge appears to take a relatively strict approach to enforcing short-term rental regulations compared to other cities. The consensus is that the city is not particularly Airbnb-friendly, with hosts facing significant challenges in navigating the regulatory landscape.

One recurring theme is the difficulty of dealing with city hall when it comes to obtaining permits and approvals for STRs. Hosts have reported that the process is often slow, confusing, and frustrating, with messages going unanswered and applications taking an inordinate amount of time to process. This bureaucratic hurdle has led some hosts to operate under the radar, without proper licensing or permits.

The introduction of new provincial regulations in May 2024, which restrict STRs to principal residences in communities like Maple Ridge, has further complicated matters for hosts. Many have reported a sudden drop in bookings and inquiries, as potential guests become wary of the legal status of their reservations. This uncertainty has forced some hosts to heavily discount their rates or consider exiting the market altogether.

Despite these challenges, there are still hosts who continue to operate STRs in Maple Ridge, either in compliance with the rules or by finding loopholes and workarounds. However, the general sentiment is that the city's enforcement efforts have made it increasingly difficult for hosts to run profitable and sustainable STR businesses.

One host on Reddit summed up the situation succinctly: "Airbnbs are not allowed at all unless you re-zone your house as a tourist destination - even if you're just renting a room." This strict approach, coupled with the limited resources for enforcement, has created a challenging environment for STR hosts in Maple Ridge.

In conclusion, while some hosts may still operate STRs in Maple Ridge despite the rules, the city's regulatory framework and enforcement efforts have made it a relatively unfriendly destination for Airbnb and other short-term rental platforms. Hosts looking to start or maintain an STR business in Maple Ridge should be prepared to navigate a complex and often frustrating process, with no guarantee of long-term success.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Maple Ridge

Starting a short-term rental business in Maple Ridge can be a rewarding venture, but it's crucial to follow the proper steps to ensure compliance with local regulations and set yourself up for success. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to get started:

• Understand the Regulations: Familiarize yourself with Maple Ridge's current and proposed STR regulations, including the requirement for STRs to be within the owner's principal residence and the limit of one STR per property. Review the information provided on the Engage Maple Ridge website to stay informed about any updates or changes. Attend public meetings or reach out to the city's Planning Department for clarification on any aspects of the regulations you're unsure about.
• Determine Eligibility: Assess whether your property meets the requirements for an STR in Maple Ridge. Currently, STRs are only permitted in licensed Bed & Breakfasts within single-detached homes. However, proposed changes may allow STRs in more housing types, such as apartments and townhouses. If you're part of a strata, review your strata bylaws to ensure STRs are permitted and understand any additional restrictions.
• Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits: Apply for a business license from the City of Maple Ridge. Complete the Business License Application and submit it to the Bylaw, Licensing & Community Safety Department at City Hall. Pay the required fees, which start at $110 per year. Be prepared for inspections to ensure your property meets all safety requirements before your license is issued.
• Prepare Your Property: Ensure your STR meets all building and fire safety requirements, including smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and carbon monoxide detectors. Make any necessary upgrades or repairs to create a safe and welcoming space for guests. Consider hiring a professional to inspect your property and identify any potential safety hazards or areas for improvement.
• Gather Required Documentation: Collect all necessary documents for your STR application, such as proof of ownership, insurance, and strata council authorization (if applicable). Create a detailed property information sheet that includes emergency contact information, parking details, and house rules. Use the City of Maple Ridge's STR application checklist to ensure you have all the required documents.
• List Your Property: Once your STR is licensed and ready for guests, create listings on popular platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo. Take high-quality photos, write compelling descriptions, and set competitive rates to attract bookings. Highlight unique features of your property and the local area to stand out from other listings. Be responsive to inquiries and maintain a high response rate.
• Manage Your STR: Establish a system for managing bookings, guest communication, and cleaning between stays. Consider using STR management software or hiring a professional property manager to streamline operations. Provide exceptional customer service to encourage positive reviews and repeat bookings. Regularly gather feedback from guests to identify areas for improvement.
• Stay Compliant: Keep accurate records of all bookings and income for tax purposes. Collect and remit all required taxes, including the 8% PST, 2% MRDT, and 5% GST. Stay informed about any changes to local or provincial STR regulations and adjust your operations as needed. Consult with a tax professional to ensure you're claiming all eligible deductions and maximizing your STR's profitability.

By following these steps and staying attuned to the evolving regulatory landscape, you can successfully launch and operate a compliant and profitable short-term rental business in Maple Ridge.

Who to Contact in Maple Ridge about Short-Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

If you have questions or need assistance with short-term rental regulations and zoning in Maple Ridge, here are the key contacts and resources:

City of Maple Ridge Planning Department

• Phone: 604-467-7341
• Email: planning@mapleridge.ca
• Address: 11995 Haney Place, Maple Ridge, BC V2X 6A9

Contact the Planning Department for inquiries related to zoning, land use, and the city's Official Community Plan as it pertains to short-term rentals.

City of Maple Ridge Bylaw & Licensing Services

• Phone: 604-467-7305
• Email: bylaws@mapleridge.ca
• Address: 11995 Haney Place, Maple Ridge, BC V2X 6A9

Reach out to Bylaw & Licensing Services for questions about obtaining a business license for your short-term rental, as well as any enforcement concerns.

Engage Maple Ridge Website

URL: https://engage.mapleridge.ca/sta

Visit the Engage Maple Ridge website for the latest information on the city's short-term accommodation regulations, including draft requirements, handouts, and presentations.

In addition to these official city contacts, there are several online communities where Maple Ridge short-term rental hosts can connect, share experiences, and seek advice:

• Airbnb Community Center: The Airbnb Community Center is a global forum where hosts can discuss a wide range of topics, from listing management to local regulations. While not specific to Maple Ridge, you can search for relevant threads or start a new discussion.
• Airbnb Hosts Forum: Airhostsforum.com is an independent forum dedicated to connecting Airbnb hosts from around the world. You can join conversations, ask questions, and learn from experienced hosts.
• BiggerPockets Forums: BiggerPockets is a popular real estate investing platform with a section dedicated to short-term rentals. You can network with other hosts, investors, and industry professionals.

By reaching out to the appropriate city departments and engaging with online host communities, you can stay informed about Maple Ridge's evolving short-term rental landscape and ensure your STR business remains compliant and successful.

What Do Airbnb Hosts in Maple Ridge on Reddit and Bigger Pockets Think about Local Regulations?

Airbnb hosts in Maple Ridge have mixed feelings about the city's short-term rental regulations, according to discussions on various online forums. Here are some real-life experiences and opinions shared by hosts:

Reddit - r/MapleRidge: In a thread titled "AirBnb Potential?", one user expressed their doubts about the viability of short-term rentals in Maple Ridge, stating, "AirBnB isn't technically allowed by the municipality and exists in a grey area. Neighbours can complain and have bylaw officers come around." Another user commented, "I for one would report any short term rental to the city the moment it becomes a slight issue."

Reddit - r/vancouverhousing: In a discussion about new provincial short-term rental rules, a user clarified that renting out a spare bedroom in a primary residence would not be specifically restricted under the new regulations. They added, "generally people are not upset at people renting out spaces in places they live in, they are upset at people buying up spaces to rent out."

BiggerPockets Forums: In a thread titled "STR Markets in Pacific NW? Is anything viable for cash flow?", a potential investor expressed concerns about the tough regulatory environment in Washington state, particularly in popular vacation destinations. They noted, "Lots of regulations in some of the more popular vacation destinations, very high prices, etc..."

While some hosts believe that short-term rentals could help address the lack of accommodations in Maple Ridge, others are concerned about the impact on housing affordability and neighborhood livability. The general sentiment seems to be that the city's current regulations make it challenging for hosts to operate legally and profitably, with many fearing potential complaints from neighbors and enforcement actions by the city.

As Maple Ridge continues to review and update its short-term rental policies, hosts will need to stay informed and adapt to the evolving regulatory landscape to ensure compliance and maintain positive relationships with the community.

Disclaimer: While we here at BNBCalc strive to keep all of our city regulation guides updated and accurate with all the latest local laws, we still do not suggest using them as your sole or primary source for local regulations. We also do not recommend you rely on the third-party sources we link to or reference, and we are not responsible for any of the information on these third-party sites. These guides are for entertainment purposes only and only provide basic information and should not be considered as legal advice.

We highly recommend directly contacting the responsible parties for each city and hearing what their officials have to say. Ultimately, it's your responsibility as an investor to ensure you fully comply with the local laws, and it's best to speak with professionals before making an investment decision.