Over the last few years, the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) has heard an increase in public concern regarding short term rental accommodations (STRs).

The RDEK Board has recognized that pursuing management options of STRs is desirable and as a result public consultation, issue identification and management options for STRs was identified as a 2021 strategic priority. The goal of this planning process is to determine best management options to address STRs.

Over the past few months, a great deal of work has been undertaken by staff on the STR project including:

• RDEK staff combined forces and through the Housing Needs Assessment planning project, data was purchased to determine the number, approximate location and revenue generated of known short term rentals throughout the regional district. A summary of this data will be included in staff’s Request for Decision on the April 7 Planning Committee agenda.
• Research was conducted on how other regional districts and municipalities managed STRs.
• Discussions were held with fellow planners from regional districts throughout B.C. and within local municipalities to discuss STRs.
• Staff have participated in numerous peer-to-peer meetings & webinars regarding STRs.
• There has been consultation with property management companies and representatives from community associations.

WHAT ARE THE RDEK’S OPTIONS IN REGULATING STRs?

Zoning Amendments

The RDEK could amend current zoning bylaws to regulate STRs. A zoning bylaw may regulate the use, location, size, and density of the land, building and other structures. If zoning was used to address STRs the size and location of the STR, number of bedrooms and guests, and parking requirements could be addressed.

Temporary Use Permits

Temporary Use Permits (TUPs) allow the RDEK to permit uses not otherwise allowed within their zoning bylaws. A TUP can specify conditions under which the proposed use can be carried on and can allow and regulate the construction of buildings or structures in respect of the use for which the permit is issued. A TUP requires approval from the Board. A TUP can be authorized for up to three years with the option to renew once for an additional three years.

Order in Council – Business Licences

The RDEK could request an Order-in-Council from the province. This order would grant the RDEK additional powers to make bylaws respecting the licencing of businesses and regulating the carrying on of businesses within the RDEK. The Order-in-Council would address short term rental use as well as other commercial uses within the RDEK.

All three options will require additional public consultation. Depending on which option the Board selects, there will be requirements to amend existing bylaws as well as the potential for the creation of new bylaws.

WHAT IS A SHORT-TERM RENTAL?

STRs refers to the accommodation of paying guests in an entire single-family dwelling, room(s) within a single-family dwelling, secondary suite, apartment or condo for less than 30 days.

RDEK

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