Before you Apply

What is the Difference Between a STR Accommodation and Bed and Breakfast Operation

• Short-Term Rental Accommodation

  “short-term rental accommodation” means the use of a residential dwelling unit for the temporary commercial accommodation of paying guests for a period of less than one month, but excludes a bed and breakfast operation;

• Bed and Breakfast Operations

  “bed and breakfast operation” means an occupation conducted within a principal dwelling unit, by the residents of the dwelling unit, which provides sleeping accommodations to the traveling public and may include the provision of meals for those persons using the sleeping accommodations;

BYLAW ENFORCEMENT

• Bylaw Enforcements Role

  Bylaw Enforcement Officers will be actively monitoring and enforcing compliance with short-term rental regulations. Property owners operating short-term rental accommodations or bed and breakfast operations without a valid business licence, or in contravention of the applicable regulations, may be subject to enforcement action and liable for daily fines for each day the offence continues.`

  Infractions may include, but are not limited to, exceeding the maximum permitted occupancy or causing disturbances to neighbouring residents.

• Noise Concerns and Other Contraventions

  If you wish to report a concern—such as a noise complaint or parking issue—the first step is to contact the short-term rental operator directly to seek a timely resolution. The STR decal, posted in a visible location on the property, contains the property managers contact information. Alternatively, you may search the Town's online business directory to obtain the necessary contact details. (link here)

  If the issue does not resolve, or continues, the next step would be to contact Bylaw Services at 250-495-6515 and file a concern for further investigation.

TIPS FOR SHORT-TERM RENTAL HOSTS

• Parking

  The Town of Osoyoos requires all short-term rentals to provide adequate off-street parking for their guests, one parking space is required per bedroom. This is a condition for obtaining a business licence and is essential for compliance with municipal regulations. 

  Please communicate these parking arrangements clearly to your guests to ensure compliance. 

• Noise

  The Good Neighbour Bylaw is designed to minimize disturbances and maintain the quality of life in our community. 

  Please ensure your guests are informed of this Town of Osoyoos bylaw, which includes regulations regarding noise.

• Garbage and Recycling

  It is the responsibility of the host to have readily available information regarding garbage disposal and recycling for their guests. For additional details and brochures that can be printed and provided to guests, please visit the following link:

  Town of Osoyoos - Garbage & Recycling

LIVING CLOSE TO A SHORT-TERM RENTAL

• How to Verify if Property is Licenced

  All short-term rentals (STRs) are required to display an STR decal in a visible and prominent location on the property. This decal includes the property managers contact info, the business licence number, and the Town's contact info. Additionally, you may verify a property's licensing status by searching the Town's online business directory. (link here)

• Can Anyone Operate a Short-Term Rental

  Homeowners may offer short-term rentals (STRs) to the public for stays of up to one month. Prior to starting operations, a business licence must be obtained, which involves a review of the property’s use, parking arrangements, signage, and confirmation with basic health and life safety standards.

  Tenants are permitted to operate short-term rentals only with the consent of the property owner.

• What to Do if a Neighbour is Operating an Unlicensed STR

  If you suspect that a neighbouring property is operating a short-term rental without a valid business licence, you may report the concern to Bylaw Services for further investigation. To file a concern, please contact Bylaw Services at 250-495-6515.