Guide to Short-Term Rentals in West Vancouver
Thinking about renting out your home, suite, or coach house in West Vancouver? Whether you’re a homeowner or buyer, it’s essential to understand the current short-term rental (STR) rules. As of 2025, new bylaws are in place that regulate how and where short-term rentals can operate in the District of West Vancouver.
This guide outlines everything homeowners and buyers need to know—from provincial registration requirements to local licensing rules—so you can stay compliant and make informed decisions.
Disclaimer: This guide is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal, financial, or professional advice. Short-term rental regulations can change, and specific requirements may vary based on your property. Always confirm the current rules with the District of West Vancouver before making decisions about operating or purchasing a home with a short-term rental.
What Is a Short-Term Rental?
In West Vancouver, a short-term rental is any rental of a residential space for less than 30 consecutive days. This includes full homes, secondary suites, or coach houses often listed on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO.
If you're offering a stay between 30 and 90 days, additional provincial regulations also apply.
Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in West Vancouver?
Yes—but there are strict requirements.
As of January 1, 2025, short-term rentals are permitted in West Vancouver, but only from your principal residence. If your property has a secondary suite or coach house, you can only rent one unit per parcel as a short-term rental (e.g., the main house, the suite, or the coach house—not more than one).
Strata buildings may have their own bylaws that prohibit short-term rentals, so check with your strata council first.
What Do I Need to Legally Operate a Short-Term Rental?
To legally run a short-term rental in West Vancouver, you must:
- Register with the Province of BC by June 1, 2025. This applies to all STR operators.
- Obtain a Short-Term Rental (STR) business licence from the District of West Vancouver before listing or operating your rental.
- Ensure your rental is your principal residence.
- Comply with safety and neighbourhood regulations (details below).
How to Register and Apply for a Business Licence
1. Provincial Registration
All short-term rental hosts must register their listing(s) with the Province of British Columbia. This is a provincial requirement and applies to all hosts operating within West Vancouver.
- Deadline: June 1, 2025
- Register as a host with the Province of British Columbia
2. District of West Vancouver Business Licence
You must also apply for a local business licence. You’ll need:
- A valid Secondary Suite licence (if applicable)
- Proof that the unit meets BC Building Code standards
- Fire safety equipment and an emergency plan
- A signed declaration that this is your principal residence
Short-Term Rental Safety & Bylaw Requirements
Home safety and community impact are priorities.
Your STR must:
- Be a legal dwelling unit (no RVs, trailers, or unauthorized suites)
- Include interconnected smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, and CO detectors (if gas appliances are used)
- Display a fire safety plan and provide emergency contact info
Neighbourhood impact rules include:
- Only one short-term rental per property
- Maximum 8 guests per booking
- Complying with bylaws on noise, parking, and good neighbour conduct
Licensing Fees (2025)
For dwelling units (home, suite, coach house):
- $450 for first-time licence (until July 31, 2025)
- $350 for licences issued after August 1, 2025
- $350 annually for renewals
For lodger/room rentals:
- Same fees as above
What Happens If I Don’t Comply?
Fines range from $500 to $3,000 per day, per infraction. Your licence may be revoked if you violate the terms or misrepresent your application.
Planning to Buy or Sell a Home with a Short-Term Rental?
If you’re buying a home in West Vancouver that is operating as a short-term rental, or you are planning to operate one, ensure that this will be your principal residence, and check that the unit:
- Has the necessary licences
- Is provincially registered
If you’re selling a home with a history of short-term rental use, be aware that buyers will likely ask for:
- Your STR business licence number
- Proof of provincial registration
- Evidence of compliance with fire and zoning regulations
Buyers should review the Property Disclosure Statement (PDS) and request any missing documentation before waiving conditions.
Still Have Questions?
For a detailed step-by-step guide to the local application process, the District has published a helpful STR Operator Handbook.
And if you're located in the City of North Vancouver or the District of North Vancouver at the links below:
City of North Vancouver (CNV) Short-Term Rentals Guide >>
District of North Vancouver (DNV) Short-Term Rentals Guide >>