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By Vernon Matters Staff

holiday or housing?

Should rural areas of RDCO have short-term rental rules?

Dec 20, 2025 | 7:00 AM

The Regional District of Central Okanagan (RDCO) will review if and how it might change regulations to align with cities regarding short term property rentals.

Currently, rural areas do not need to conform to the province’s rules that limit short-term rental accommodation.

The RDCO plans a public consultation process that focuses on what it termed clear, compelling information on why these regulations matter and how it affects housing, neighbourhood safety and livability, and the local and regional economy.

The province has clamped down on short term rentals in bigger cities in recent years, including Kelowna, because of the housing crisis.

After its recent meeting the RDCO board decided to direct staff to begin public engagement and prepare draft bylaw amendments related to short-term rental accommodations in the RDCO’s East and West Electoral Areas.

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The proposed bylaw will modernize existing bylaws, align with provincial legislation and ensure a balanced approach that reflects the unique needs of rural communities. Public engagement is expected to begin in the new year.