Over the summers of 2021 and 2022, the District has held various engagement opportunities to consult on new regulations for short term rentals within the District. As a destination community, Sicamous attracts vacationers in both the winter and summer months. Online services such as Vacation Rental by Owner (VRBO) or Airbnb have become popular in residential neighbourhoods as an alternative to a hotel. There can be a negative impact on local hotel businesses, the availability of housing, and the residential character of neighborhoods.
Short term rentals are not currently a permitted use in most areas of Sicamous. Enabling regulations to allow short term rentals in specific areas are included in the New Zoning Bylaw, which was adopted at the January 11, 2023 Council Meeting.
Business Licencing Requirements and Fees were updated by adoption of bylaw amendments to the Business Licencing and Fees Bylaws at the February 8, 2023 Council Meeting.
What is a "Short Term Rental"?
The Zoning Bylaw defines "Short Term Rental" as: the use of a Dwelling Unit as a "Sleeping Unit", which is defined as a unit of accommodation, not subject to a tenancy agreement, for rental on a daily, weekly, or monthly rate and may include a bathroom and cooking facilities.
Zones allowing Short Term Rentals, subject to business licencing:
- CR Country Residential
- MUR-2 Seasonal Accommodation
- C-1 to C-4 & C-6 (as a "Tourist Accommodation")
Don't know what your zoning is? Check out our Property Inquiry Map and click on your property, or, turn on the Zoning Layer.
Click Here to go to the Map
For more information, contact:
Sarah Martin, Planner | PH:(250) 836 5261 | EMAIL: smartin@sicamous.ca