If you have seen British Columbia’s updated short-term rental rules released on May 1, 2024, you may be concerned as a visitor to Sasquatch Mountain.
These laws target high-density urban areas and have a direct impact on short term rentals in the province.
The good news is that Sasquatch Mountain Resort, along with other areas, isn’t affected by these new limitations.
How The Guidelines Affect Short-Term Rental Regulations in BC
There is a “principal residence requirement” enforced in the new regulations in the Short-Term Rental Accommodation Act.
Only a property owner’s primary residence can be used as a short-term rental. This includes one additional suite if available.
Hosts in affected areas must show business licenses on their listings, online or offline. Listing platforms like Airbnb and VRBO are mandated to remove the listing should they not comply. They’re also obligated to share information with the Province for monitoring.
Hosts that violate these new laws are at risk for a hefty fine which can go up to $3,000 per offense.
The Act takes effect primarily on cities and municipalities that have more than 10,000 residents. This includes Vancouver, Kelowna, and other urban hubs near major resorts.
Some smaller communities, such as Tofino and Pemberton, elected to the principal residence requirement to solve shortages in local housing.
However, resort communities and low-population areas aren’t affected unless they volunteer to implement the rules.
Exemptions to the Short-Term Rental Accommodations Act
Of course, with every rule, there will always be exceptions. The Act does not apply to:
- Reserve lands
- Hotels and motels
- Nisga’a Lands or the Treaty Lands of a Treaty First Nation (unless the Nation chooses to opt into all or part of the legislation through a coordination agreement with the province).
- Vehicles (RV, campers)
- Tents or other temporary shelter
What about Mountain Resorts like Sasquatch Mountain Resort?
Mountain Resorts play a unique role in the tourism industry, and the B. C. Government acknowledges that. That’s why they have exempted designated resort areas from the principal residence requirement. As such, the Black Mountain Cabin and other vacation rental properties in the area can operate freely.
Some resorts included in the exemption benefits are:
- Whistler Blackcomb – known as a global tourist destination, Whistler retains its wide range of accommodations all year for visitors.
- Big White and Sun Peaks Resorts – families can enjoy a wide range of rental ski resort options.
- Revelstoke Mountain Resort – even with new provincial rules set, Revelstoke maintains their short-term rental offerings for skiing and winter sports.
Does it Impact Your Stay at Black Diamond Cabin?
The good news is the Black Diamond Cabin operates without restrictions as it’s within Sasquatch Mountain Resort. You can make your booking with confidence, knowing that your stay won’t be affected. The Sasquatch Mountain Resort proudly offers unrestricted short-term rental options. Travelers and visitors looking for seasonal getaways are always welcome.
Sasquatch Mountain Resort will keep supporting the local economy by continuing to provide short-term accommodation services.
Will Sasquatch Mountain Resort Be Exempt in the Future?
Sasquatch Mountain Resort, as well as other similar resorts, are exempt from the principal residence requirement. This is thanks to the Provincial Government recognizing our importance in supporting tourism in BC.
It’s unlikely to change in the near future, as mountain resorts serve tourists and seasonal visitors only. This makes us unsuitable for long-term housing needs.
However, changes can happen. Ongoing reviews, as well as housing market trends, may influence upcoming policies. For now, we will gladly welcome guests at Sasquatch Mountain Resort without worrying over regulatory impacts.
The Goal of B. C’s Short-Term Rental Legislation’s New Guidelines
BC is experiencing a housing crisis, especially in all forms of attainable housing, which include long-term rentals.
Many reasons, such as population growth and rising interest rates, cause the housing crisis. However, the rise in short-term rentals is further contributing to the shortage.
According to the Government Of British Columbia website, more than 16,000 entire homes are being used for short-term rentals.
The goal is to:
- Get short-term rental units back to the long-term housing market.
- For local governments to attain stronger tools for enforcing short-term rental bylaws.
- Put into place a new Provincial role for regulating short-term rentals.
Conclusion
- C.’s new rental regulations are here to give a balance between the province’s housing needs and the tourism industry. There are strict limits on urban centers. However, mountain resort exemptions ensure Black Diamond Cabin remain available to visitors.
Want more details on rules and specifics of exempt areas? Please visit B.C. Government’s website.
