Information bulletin
For immediate release
ESQUIMALT, BC— The Township of Esquimalt is considering the future of short-term rentals following the introduction of B.C.’s Short-Term Rental Accommodations Act (Bill 35) in 2024.
To help develop these policies with the community in mind, staff are reaching out to the public to hear their views on short-term rentals in the community. Public feedback along with other research and analysis will be collected in a report for council targeted for March 2026.
Short-Term Rental Accommodations Act (effective since May 2024) defines short-term rentals as those lasting less than 90 days. Local governments may choose to define them differently within their own bylaws.
Short-term rentals are currently prohibited in Esquimalt unless the owner seeks special rezoning and can comply with legacy “Bed and Breakfast” regulations. Currently only 6 properties have this special B&B zoning, with two active business licenses. Council directed staff to consider options for amendments to the Zoning Bylaw and bring the report back to a council meeting. Part of the report is the inclusion of public views on short-terms rentals in Esquimalt.
To help gather feedback, an open house is scheduled on November 26 from 3 to 7PM at the Esquimalt Recreation Center (527 Fraser Street). There is also an online survey open until December 17 or paper copies available at municipal hall.
Learn more or take the survey at EngagingEsquimalt.ca/rentals
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Media contact
Tara Zajac
Manager of Communications
tara.zajac@esquimalt.ca