Kelowna skyline/Stock photo (ID 56254505 © Stan Jones | Dreamstime.com)

By Vernon Matters Staff

Protecting renters

Kelowna strengthens tenant protections, updates short-term rental rules

Apr 15, 2025 | 11:04 AM

The City of Kelowna is introducing stronger protections for renters who are displaced by redevelopment, while also updating its approach to short-term rentals.

City council has approved new rules requiring developers to provide three months’ rent, moving expenses and a clear tenant relocation plan before ending leases. A proposed exemption tied to local vacancy rates was removed to ensure all displaced tenants receive support.

The changes are intended to strike a balance between growth and compassion in a city where affordable housing continues to be a growing concern.

Council also adopted several bylaw updates on April 14 to align Kelowna’s short-term rental regulations with new provincial legislation. As a result, the city has reopened business licence applications for short-term rental operators.

The updated rules allow short-term rentals in an operator’s principal residence for stays under 90 days. For the first time, they also permit rentals in secondary suites and carriage houses.

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The city says the changes will protect long-term rental supply, strengthen enforcement and reduce confusion for residents and visitors. Operators must now hold a valid business licence and register their rental with the province to avoid penalties.

Officials say licensing will help ensure short-term rentals are good neighbours and allow the city to enforce rules proactively and fairly.