Frequently asked questions
Common questions about City of Vancouver rental business licence requirements and our services.
Who needs a licence for long-term rentals?
Anyone renting a residential property they own for 90 days or more at a time needs a long-term rental business licence, even with a property manager.
Do I need a licence if I live in the home and have 1–2 tenants?
The City states if you're a residential property owner with up to 2 tenants living with you in your principal residence, you don't need a business licence (e.g., exchange students).
Who can operate a short-term rental?
You must meet principal residence requirements, and you need strata/landlord approval where applicable. The unit must be your principal residence, and you need one licence per person.
What happens if I operate short-term rentals without complying?
The City warns operating without a licence can result in fines or prosecution, and it notes non-compliance may result in fines (example given: up to $1,000 for each offence in the approvals section).
What are the key costs for short-term rentals?
$77 application fee + $1,108 annual licence fee.
What safety items are expected for short-term rentals?
Interconnected smoke alarms, CO detectors if gas appliances, fire extinguishers, fire plan posting, and potentially a fire alarm system depending on building characteristics; keep annual inspection/test records.
Is there anything else beyond the City licence for short-term rentals?
The City states that after receiving the City licence, hosts must also register with the Province of BC and pay a separate provincial fee; failure may lead to listings being removed and bookings cancelled by platforms (per City notice).
What are the costs for long-term rental business licences?
$77 one-time, non-refundable application fee, plus $98 annually per dwelling unit (also listed: $71 per housekeeping unit; $47 per sleeping unit).
When do short-term rental licences need to be renewed?
Short-term rental licences must be renewed annually by December 31. Late renewals may incur penalty fees.
Do I need strata approval for short-term rentals?
If your property is in a strata building, you need written strata corporation authorization to operate a short-term rental.
Still have questions?
Contact us or start your order to begin the rental business licence process.