BC Real Estate Association Calls for Smart Short-Term Rental Fixes to Boost Tourism and Balance Housing Crunch
Vancouver, BC – British Columbia stands at a crucial crossroads. On one side: an urgent housing crisis gripping communities across the province. On the other: a tourism industry gearing up for a potential boom amid global uncertainties and rising domestic travel. Now, the BC Real Estate Association (BCREA) is sounding the alarm and calling for bold, smart changes to short-term rental (STR) laws changes that could unlock economic opportunities without sacrificing the fight for affordable housing.
When Well-Meaning Rules Meet Real-World Consequences
Back in 2022, the province rolled out the Short-Term Rental Accommodations Act with a clear goal: squeeze more homes into the long-term rental market and help ease skyrocketing rents. But the results haven’t been straightforward. Instead, the rules have inadvertently throttled local economies in regions where tourism is a major driver and where STRs don’t just put roofs over visitors’ heads but keep small businesses and communities thriving.
Now, with more British Columbians planning staycations and domestic tourists ready to explore their own backyard this summer, the need to rethink STR regulations has never been more urgent.
Give Local Communities the Power to Decide
One of BCREA’s top recommendations? Let local governments call the shots on zoning for short-term rentals. Right now, the province ties their hands behind their backs with rigid rules: communities can only loosen STR restrictions if their rental vacancy rates stay above 3% for two years straight. For many towns and cities, that bar is impossible to meet and crucial economic opportunities slip through their fingers.
Imagine if municipalities could respond faster and smarter by adjusting STR rules based on what their neighborhoods really need, whether that’s more visitors or more homes for long-term renters. That kind of flexibility could be a game-changer for tourism hotspots and local economies struggling to rebound.
Striking the Right Balance
BCREA is crystal clear: solving the housing crisis is urgent and non-negotiable. They support policies that grow long-term rental supply and protect affordability. But they also insist that economic health especially in tourism-dependent communities must be part of the conversation. STRs don’t just offer convenience to travelers; they are lifelines for property owners and small businesses that count on visitor spending.
This is about crafting a future where housing and economic needs don’t clash but coexist and where policy evolves with the times, not against them.
A Window of Opportunity for BC
Tariffs and trade tensions have created a challenging backdrop, but also a rare opportunity. As domestic tourism rises and travelers seek safe, local adventures, BC can position itself as a leader by modernizing STR laws to fit today’s realities.
The question now is: Will policymakers seize this moment to support vibrant communities, protect housing, and welcome visitors with open arms? The BC Real Estate Association says yes and with the right changes, BC can have it all.
