Revelstoke Short-Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Revelstoke

Revelstoke, a picturesque town in British Columbia, has implemented regulations to govern the operation of short-term rentals, also known as Airbnb or VRBO rentals. These regulations aim to strike a balance between supporting the tourism industry and addressing concerns related to housing availability and neighborhood impacts.

In March 2022, the City of Revelstoke adopted Bylaw No. 2295 and Bylaw No. 2318, which established a framework for STR operations. Here are the key points to consider when starting an STR business in Revelstoke:

Permitted Areas: STRs are allowed in certain areas, including existing zoned properties and 59 properties adjacent to the Revelstoke Mountain Resort and Mackenzie Village, bounded by Hay Road and Camozzi Road. Additionally, single-family dwellings in the C2 (Downtown Fringe Commercial) zone are permitted for STRs.

Principal Residence Requirement: For properties adjacent to the resort and in the C2 zone, the STR must be operated by a permanent resident living on-site, either in the primary dwelling or a secondary suite. STRs are not permitted in carriage or garden suites in these areas.

Licensing and Fees: Operators must obtain a business license from the City. For principal residences (Stream 1), a partial-unit RGA license is required, with an application fee of $400 and an annual licensing fee of $200. For non-principal residences (Stream 2), a Temporary Use Permit (TUP) is necessary, with a $1,500 application fee and a $2,000 annual business license fee. TUPs are valid until December 31, 2024, with the possibility of renewal for an additional 1-3 years.

Regulations: STRs are subject to various regulations, including occupancy limits (maximum of 4 bedrooms and 8 occupants), parking requirements (1 stall per bedroom), and compliance with fire safety and sewerage disposal requirements.

Provincial Regulations: As of May 1, 2024, the Province of British Columbia will implement a principal residence requirement for STRs in municipalities with a population of 10,000 and over, as well as smaller neighboring communities. Revelstoke, with a population of around 4,800, has the option to opt in or opt out of this requirement.

The implementation of STR regulations in Revelstoke has sparked debates among residents. Some have expressed concerns about the impact on long-term rental housing availability and potential disturbances in residential neighborhoods. Others have argued that STRs provide supplemental income for homeowners and support the tourism industry.

It's important to note that the regulations are subject to change, and prospective STR operators should stay informed about any updates or modifications to the bylaws and comply with the latest rules.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Revelstoke

To operate an STR in Revelstoke, operators must obtain the appropriate license from the City. The licensing requirements differ based on whether the STR is located in the principal residence of the owner (Stream 1) or in a non-principal residence (Stream 2).

For Stream 1 STRs, where the owner resides in the property, the following licensing requirements apply:

• Owners must apply for a partial-unit RGA license, which allows them to rent out up to two bedrooms in their principal residence year-round while they are present during guest stays.
• The application fee for a partial-unit RGA license is $400, and the annual licensing fee is $200.

For Stream 2 STRs, where the property is not the principal residence of the owner, the licensing requirements are more stringent and temporary:

• Owners must apply for a Temporary Use Permit (TUP), which grants permission to operate a non-principal residence STR until December 31, 2024.
• The TUP application fee is $1,500, and the annual business license fee is $2,000.
• After the initial two-year period, owners can apply to renew their TUP for an additional 1-3 years, subject to a $1,000 renewal fee.
• The City of Revelstoke has limited the number of TUPs issued for non-principal residence STRs, with the intention of phasing out this category within the next 2-5 years.

Failure to obtain the required licenses or comply with the regulations can result in bylaw enforcement action and fines.

Required Documents for Revelstoke Short-Term Rentals

To operate an STR in Revelstoke, operators must provide various documents as part of the application process. The required documents differ based on whether the STR is operating in the principal residence of the owner (Stream 1) or in a non-principal residence (Stream 2).

For Stream 1 STRs, where the owner resides in the property, the following documents are typically required:

1. Completed application form
2. Proof of principal residency (e.g., government-issued ID, utility bills, etc.)
3. Floor plans showing the area to be rented
4. Parking plan
5. Proof of ownership or authorization from the property owner
6. Application fee payment

For Stream 2 STRs, where the property is not the principal residence of the owner, additional documents are required, including:

1. Completed Temporary Use Permit (TUP) application form
2. Site plan and floor plans
3. Parking plan
4. Proof of ownership or authorization from the property owner
5. TUP application fee payment ($1,500)
6. Proposed guest management plan
7. Proposed fire safety plan

All STR operators, regardless of the stream, must also provide the following documents:

1. Proof of adequate sewerage disposal and water supply facilities
2. Proof of compliance with fire safety regulations
3. Business license application and fee payment

The City of Revelstoke may request additional documents or information as deemed necessary during the application review process.

Revelstoke-Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

Revelstoke has implemented comprehensive regulations for short-term rentals, also known as Residential Guest Accommodations (RGAs). These rules aim to balance the needs of the tourism industry with the availability of long-term rental housing for residents. Here are the key aspects of Revelstoke's short-term rental rules:

Two Streams of RGAs

Revelstoke has established two streams of permissible RGAs:

1. Stream 1: Allows for dwelling units that have a principal resident. This includes renting out a portion of your principal residence, such as a secondary suite or garden suite, or renting out your entire principal residence for up to three months in a calendar year.
2. Stream 2: For dwelling units where no one permanently resides. This category is being phased out within the next 2-5 years, but in the meantime, a limited number of units can operate under a Temporary Use Permit (TUP).

Licensing and Fees

To operate a Stream 1 RGA (principal residence), owners must apply for a partial-unit RGA license, which allows them to rent out up to two bedrooms year-round while they are present during guest stays. The application fee is $400, and the annual licensing fee is $200.

For Stream 2 RGAs (non-principal residence), owners must apply for a TUP, which grants permission to operate until December 31, 2024. The TUP application fee is $1,500, and the annual business license fee is $2,000. After the initial two-year period, owners can apply to renew their TUP for an additional 1-3 years, subject to a $1,000 renewal fee.

Enforcement and Penalties

Enforcement of the new RGA bylaws began on January 1, 2023. Failure to comply with the regulations can result in bylaw enforcement action and fines.

Principal Residence Requirement

As of May 1, 2024, the Province of British Columbia will implement a principal residence requirement for STRs in municipalities with a population of 10,000 and over, as well as smaller neighboring communities. Revelstoke, with a population of around 4,800, falls below the 10,000 threshold, so the town has the option to opt in or opt out of the provincial principal residence requirement. As of January 2024, Revelstoke had not yet decided whether to adopt the provincial regulations or continue with its own RGA structure.

These comprehensive rules aim to regulate STRs in Revelstoke, addressing concerns about the impact on long-term rental housing availability and potential disturbances in residential neighborhoods. However, the regulations have also raised concerns about their potential impact on the tourism industry and the availability of accommodations for visitors.

Does Revelstoke Strictly Enforce STR Rules? Is Revelstoke Airbnb-friendly?

The Town of Revelstoke has taken a firm stance in regulating short-term rentals, also known as Airbnb rentals. The town's regulations are clear, and the enforcement is strict, indicating that Revelstoke is not particularly Airbnb-friendly.

The town's zoning bylaw explicitly states that the regulations are to be enforced. This statement leaves no ambiguity, demonstrating that the town intends for the regulations to be strictly enforced.

Revelstoke's approach shows that it does not welcome Airbnb operations within the town. The town has chosen not to allow Airbnb to operate freely, indicating that it does not embrace Airbnb's presence.

Based on this, it is evident that Revelstoke does not welcome Airbnb's presence. The town has made a clear decision not to allow Airbnb to operate freely, demonstrating that it does not embrace Airbnb's operations within its boundaries.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Revelstoke

To start a short-term rental business, also known as a Residential Guest Accommodation (RGA), in Revelstoke, you need to follow these steps:

1. Determine if your property qualifies: Revelstoke has two streams of permissible RGAs. Stream 1 allows for dwelling units with a principal resident, while Stream 2 is for non-principal residences and is being phased out within the next 2-5 years.
2. Obtain the necessary permits and licenses: For Stream 1 RGAs, you need to apply for a partial-unit RGA license, which allows you to rent out up to two bedrooms in your principal residence year-round while you are present during guest stays. The application fee is $400, and the annual licensing fee is $200.
3. Apply for a Temporary Use Permit (TUP) if operating under Stream 2: If you plan to operate a non-principal residence RGA (Stream 2), you must apply for a TUP. The TUP application fee is $1,500, and the annual business license fee is $2,000. TUPs are valid until December 31, 2024, with the possibility of renewal for an additional 1-3 years.
4. Provide required documents: Along with the application forms, you will need to submit proof of principal residency (for Stream 1), floor plans, parking plans, proof of ownership or authorization, and application fee payments. For Stream 2, additional documents like a site plan, guest management plan, and fire safety plan may be required.
5. Comply with regulations: Familiarize yourself with Revelstoke's RGA bylaws and regulations, including occupancy limits, fire safety requirements, sewerage disposal requirements, and any other applicable rules.
6. Obtain necessary inspections: Your RGA unit may need to undergo inspections by the Town to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations and other requirements.
7. Prepare your property for short-term rental use:Ensure it is fully furnished, stocked with essential amenities, and meets all required safety codes. Consider hiring a professional cleaning service between guest stays.
8. Create a detailed listing:List your rental on popular platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo. Take high-quality photos, write an accurate description, and set competitive rates. Be sure to include your DBPR Vacation Rental License number in the listing.
9. Collect and remit taxes: STR operators in Revelstoke are required to collect and remit the 3% Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT), 8% Provincial Sales Tax (PST), and 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on rental income.
10. Report rental income: Income generated from STRs is considered taxable income, and you must report it on your annual tax returns.
11. Renew licenses and permits as required: Ensure that you renew your licenses and permits as per the Town's requirements to continue operating your short-term rental business legally.
12. Stay updated on any changes to regulations: Revelstoke's short-term rental regulations are subject to change, so it's essential to stay informed about any updates or modifications to the bylaws and comply with the latest rules.

Failure to comply with Revelstoke's short-term rental regulations can result in bylaw enforcement action and fines. Additionally, the Town may impose further restrictions or phase out certain types of short-term rentals in the future, so it's crucial to stay informed and adapt to any changes in the regulations.

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

If you have questions or need assistance regarding short-term rental regulations, zoning, or any other planning and development matters in Revelstoke, you should contact the Town of Revelstoke's Planning and Development Department.

Planning and Development Department
Town of Revelstoke
474 South Fletcher Road
Revelstoke, BC V0E 2S0
Phone: 604-886-2274
Email: planning@revelstoke.ca

The Planning and Development Department is responsible for administering the Town's Official Community Plan, zoning bylaws, and other regulations related to land use and development, including short-term rental (Residential Guest Accommodation) regulations.

It's advisable to contact the department early in the process to ensure you have a clear understanding of the regulations and requirements before proceeding with any plans or applications for short-term rental operations.

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

From the search results on Reddit and Bigger Pockets, there are a few relevant discussions about Airbnb regulations and hosts' perspectives in Revelstoke and nearby areas:

In a discussion on the r/vancouver subreddit, some users expressed concerns about Airbnb rentals taking away long-term rental units and contributing to housing affordability issues. However, others argued that it provides supplemental income for homeowners and benefits tourism.

On the r/canada subreddit, a thread discussed the housing crisis on the Sunshine Coast, including Revelstoke. Some users mentioned that Airbnb and vacation rentals have exacerbated the shortage of long-term rental housing in the area.

In a thread titled "Short-term Rentals (Airbnb) in Jacksonville," a user inquired about regulations and taxes for operating Airbnb rentals in that city, indicating an interest in understanding local rules.

Another user sought advice on starting Airbnb vacation rentals, highlighting the importance of considering local regulations when entering this business.

In a discussion about Airbnb in Florida, a user expressed caution, stating that while some cities have laws regulating short-term rentals, they are often not enforced, leading them to avoid Airbnb investments.

A user from Connecticut asked about short-term rental laws in the Tampa and Lakeland areas of Florida, demonstrating the need for hosts to understand local regulations.

While there are no direct comments from Revelstoke hosts on these forums, the discussions suggest a mix of perspectives. Some hosts are concerned about regulations limiting their ability to operate, while others recognize the need for rules to address housing affordability and potential impacts on residential neighborhoods.

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.