Three layers of rules
| Layer | What it does |
|---|---|
| Strata bylaws | May prohibit or regulate short-term accommodation (typically stays under 30 days) but may no longer restrict long-term rentals, other than age-restricted (55+) communities |
| Provincial: Short-Term Rental Accommodations Act | Principal-residence requirement in most larger communities since May 2024, a provincial registry and platform obligations |
| Municipal | Business licences, zoning and local principal-residence rules; Kelowna, Vancouver, Victoria and others each have their own |
Fines for short-term rental bylaws
The Strata Property Regulation caps fines for contravening a short-term rental bylaw at $1,000 per day, far above the general bylaw cap. The strata's bylaw must set the amount within the cap, and every fine still requires the s.135 steps: complaint, particulars, response window, hearing if requested, written decision.
Evidence that holds up
- Listings: screenshots with dates, the listing's calendar, and reviews that place guests in the unit on specific nights.
- Access records: fob usage, guest registers, patrol logs, parking passes issued to non-residents.
- Correspondence with the owner, including the particulars letter and the owner's response.
- The council's decision, the fine schedule and proof of delivery of each notice.
AryaPM's short-term rental registry logs STR units, guests and licences, keeps listings and access records on the bylaw file, and issues the s.135 letters with the dates attached.
If the strata permits short-term rentals
A strata that allows STRs should register each unit, record the municipal licence and the provincial registration where required, set house rules for guests, and keep a guest log for security. Guests should never receive portal access or resident privileges; they are visitors of the owner.
Frequently asked questions
Can our strata ban Airbnb-style rentals?
Yes, by a bylaw passed by three-quarter vote and filed at the Land Title Office, subject to the Act's exceptions.
Can we restrict long-term rentals?
No. Since November 2022 the Act removed rental-restriction bylaws except for age restrictions (55 and over).
Does the provincial registry replace our bylaw?
No. The provincial rules apply in addition to your bylaws; a unit can comply with the province and still contravene the strata's bylaw.
Last reviewed 2026-09-21. Product details describe AryaPM as it ships today; legislation summaries are general information, not legal advice.