Kelowna short-term rentals
Airbnb in Kelowna after the 2026 opt-out: what changed.
BC limits most short-term rentals to a host's principal residence. On June 1, 2026 Kelowna became the first city allowed to opt out, but only in part. Here is what that means for buyers.
The provincial rule
Under BC's Short-Term Rental Accommodations Act, short-term rentals in most larger BC communities are limited to the host's principal residence, plus one secondary suite or accessory dwelling on the same property. That rule ended most investor-run Airbnbs in Kelowna starting in 2024.
Kelowna's partial opt-out
The province approved Kelowna's request to opt out of the principal residence requirement effective June 1, 2026, based on the city's higher rental vacancy rate. The exemption applies to properties rezoned into Kelowna's short-term rental sub-zone. Outside that sub-zone, the principal residence rule still applies.
- In the sub-zone: owner occupancy is not required, but a City business licence is.
- Everywhere else in Kelowna: short-term rentals must be in your principal residence or its suite.
- West Kelowna and other communities: rules differ by municipality and zone, so check each one.
Before you buy for Airbnb: confirm the building is in the sub-zone on the City of Kelowna's current list, read the strata bylaws, and run the numbers as a long-term rental too.
How Rob helps investors
Rob will confirm a property's short-term rental status with the City before you write, review strata bylaws during your subject period, and compare short-term and long-term rental income so you are not relying on one scenario.
Sources: BC Gov News, Castanet.
Common questions
Can you Airbnb in Kelowna in 2026?
In most of Kelowna, only in your principal residence or its secondary suite. Since June 1, 2026, properties in the City's short-term rental sub-zone are exempt from the principal residence rule but still need a business licence.
What is the Kelowna short-term rental sub-zone?
It is a zoning designation for specific buildings where the City allows non-owner-occupied short-term rentals under the provincial opt-out. Check the City of Kelowna's current list before buying.
Does the opt-out apply to West Kelowna?
No. The 2026 opt-out was granted to the City of Kelowna. West Kelowna and other communities have their own rules and zones.
What are the penalties for an illegal short-term rental in BC?
The province can fine hosts for breaking the principal residence rule, and fines can be significant. Confirm a property's status before you list it.
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Buying an Okanagan rental property?
Rob will check the rules for the exact property and run the numbers with you.