Today, we’re diving into some major changes happening in Whistler regarding short-term rentals in residential areas. If you own and operate short-term rental accommodations in Whistler, this is crucial information for you. The Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) is significantly ramping up its enforcement with hefty fines for non-compliance. Let’s break it down.
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RMOW’s New Enforcement Strategy
The RMOW is getting serious about cracking down on non-compliant short-term rentals. Recently, the council passed a motion to increase fines by a whopping 200%, from $1,000 to $3,000 per day. This move aligns with new provincial legislation aimed at shifting short-term rentals to long-term housing. For instance, if you own a home in a residentially zoned neighborhood like Alpine Meadows and rent it out on Airbnb or VRBO for less than 30 days, you’ll face these increased fines.
Highlights from the RMOW Council Meeting
Date of Meeting: May 14th
Key Decision: First, second, and third readings of the bylaw amendments were given.
Legislation: The changes fall under the updated Short Term Rentals Act, introduced by the NDP government in October 2023.
New Fine: $3,000 per day for non-compliance
Lindsay Debou, RMOW’s manager of protective services, explained that while Whistler's zoning already restricts short-term rentals in residential areas, the new ability to impose higher fines and use enhanced enforcement tools will significantly aid in compliance.
“These changes will help us better track and manage short-term rentals, ensuring compliance and maintaining our community standards,” Debou stated.
Enforcement and Impact
In 2024 alone, 61 tickets have been issued for non-compliant rentals, showcasing a strong record of winning disputes in adjudication hearings. Last year, RMOW collected almost $5,000 in unpaid fines and expects to collect up to $15,000 this year, thanks to a new partnership with a debt-collection agency.
Some council members, like Councillors Jessie Morden and Jeff Murl, questioned if $3,000 was enough. While the council unanimously approved the changes, there was discussion about advocating for even higher fines, up to $10,000 per day, through a resolution at the Union of BC Municipalities.
“Our community has done a great job managing this, and these new tools will help us do even better,” said Mayor Jack Crompton.
“These changes will help us better track and manage short-term rentals, ensuring compliance and maintaining our community standards,” Debou stated.
Proposed Increases in Penalties
The RMOW also seeks to increase the maximum bylaw notice penalty from $500 to $5,000. Unlike MTI fines, bylaw notices can be mailed and are easier to apply, but currently have a much lower cap.
Additionally, new provincial requirements will mandate that short-term rental listings include business licenses. The RMOW can cross-check listings with a new provincial registry and request the removal of non-compliant listings from rental websites.
“This is about supporting housing legislation and our community’s needs. Increasing fines is a step in the right direction,” said Councillor Jen Ford.
What Do You Think?
The RMOW is taking significant steps to ensure compliance with short-term rental regulations. With these new measures, they aim to balance the needs of tourists and the local community. What do you think about these changes?
I’ve helped over 1,000 buyers and sellers in the Whistler real estate market over the past 25 years, and I hope my market knowledge has been helpful to you. Catch you in the next post!
