Kelowna Airbnb rules for 2026, in plain English

What changed in 2026?

Until this year, BC’s rules meant you could only Airbnb a home you lived in. On April 17, 2026, the Province gave Kelowna an exemption. Starting June 1, 2026, some Kelowna properties can be rented by the night even if the owner doesn’t live there.

Which properties can do it?

Only properties the City has approved. The City keeps a list of properties that could qualify. Each one has to be “rezoned”, which means the City officially approves it for short-term rentals.

For a condo or townhome building, the strata (the owners’ group that runs the building) has to agree and sign the application.

What if my building isn’t approved?

You can still Airbnb the home you live in. You can also rent a suite or carriage house on the property where you live. With a suite or carriage house, the most you can rent is two units and five bedrooms in total.

What licence do I need?

You need a City of Kelowna business licence before you take bookings.

• Application fee: $50
• Licence: $345 a year
• You apply online, and the forms come to you by email to sign.
• You'll need government photo ID and a fire escape plan for your unit.
• For a unit you don't live in, the City's final review takes about 2 to 4 weeks after it has everything.

You also need to register your rental with the Province of BC.

What rules do I have to follow once I’m running?

• Only one booking at a time per unit.
• No more than 2 adults per bedroom.
• No more than 3 bedrooms in a unit can be rented.
• Your licence number and number of bedrooms must be in every online listing. Say whether guest parking is included.
• Someone must be reachable 24/7 to deal with problems.
• A fire extinguisher (type 2A10BC) mounted on the wall on every floor.
• Test smoke alarms every month and keep a log. Replace them after 10 years. Have smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms and extinguishers checked once a year.
• The City can inspect your unit.

What happens if I break the rules?

Fines can be up to $500 per day, for each rule broken, and higher if it keeps happening.

Can my strata still say no?

Yes. Even in an approved building, your strata can have its own rules, like limits on rentals, noise rules or insurance requirements. Always read your strata bylaws before you buy or list.