Short-term Rentals

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Consultation has concluded

Short-term rentals (STRs), also known as vacation rentals or Airbnb's, are residential dwelling units (or portions thereof) that are rented for periods less than 30 days.

STRs impact communities in a variety of ways. Some of the opportunities and challenges of STRs to consider include:


STR OpportunitiesSTR Challenges

Flexible accommodation for tourists.

Neighborhood disruption.

Supplemental income for home owners.

Decreasing housing affordability.

Flexible tenancy options for landlords.

Removal of long-term rental housing.


Other considerations:

  • The growth of STRs has been significant in small and rural communities, with annual growth rates between 42%-44%.
  • In BC, STRs had taken over 16,000 housing units off the long-term market up to the end of 2022.
  • Renting out entire homes, particularly where there are no permanent residents, can have negative impacts on housing availability and affordability.

As a response to the increasing popularity of STRs in our community, and while considering the benefits and challenges of STRs, the Town of Creston has developed STR regulations.

Here’s what to consider when planning to operate a STR:

  1. Short term rentals are now permitted in an operator’s principle dwelling where they live for at least 8 months per year OR in a maximum of one attached accessory dwelling unit (secondary suite) where the operator lives in the principle dwelling in the same building.

  2. STRs are permitted in Zones R1-R6, CDNW, CN, CHS, CG, CDC, AG, but not as the primary use.

  3. A STR business licence fee is $650 annually.

  4. STRs will be required to have an up-to-date fire inspection (within three years).

  5. MRDT must be collected.

  6. A welcome booklet, including emergency contacts and other information, will be provided by the Town that must be made available to all guests.

  7. Every STR operator must maintain a daily register of guests and provide a copy to the Town upon request.

  8. Advertising a Short term rental without a business licence has a $250 penalty per day. Using land contrary to the Zoning Bylaw also has a separate $250 penalty per day.

  9. A grace period of six months from the adoption date, starting March 12th, 2024, has been granted. During this time, STR operators are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new regulations and bring their operations into alignment.

For those seeking further information or assistance navigating the new bylaws, the Community Planning and Development Office is available to provide support. Contact details are as follows:

Short-term rentals (STRs), also known as vacation rentals or Airbnb's, are residential dwelling units (or portions thereof) that are rented for periods less than 30 days.

STRs impact communities in a variety of ways. Some of the opportunities and challenges of STRs to consider include:


STR OpportunitiesSTR Challenges

Flexible accommodation for tourists.

Neighborhood disruption.

Supplemental income for home owners.

Decreasing housing affordability.

Flexible tenancy options for landlords.

Removal of long-term rental housing.


Other considerations:

  • The growth of STRs has been significant in small and rural communities, with annual growth rates between 42%-44%.
  • In BC, STRs had taken over 16,000 housing units off the long-term market up to the end of 2022.
  • Renting out entire homes, particularly where there are no permanent residents, can have negative impacts on housing availability and affordability.

As a response to the increasing popularity of STRs in our community, and while considering the benefits and challenges of STRs, the Town of Creston has developed STR regulations.

Here’s what to consider when planning to operate a STR:

  1. Short term rentals are now permitted in an operator’s principle dwelling where they live for at least 8 months per year OR in a maximum of one attached accessory dwelling unit (secondary suite) where the operator lives in the principle dwelling in the same building.

  2. STRs are permitted in Zones R1-R6, CDNW, CN, CHS, CG, CDC, AG, but not as the primary use.

  3. A STR business licence fee is $650 annually.

  4. STRs will be required to have an up-to-date fire inspection (within three years).

  5. MRDT must be collected.

  6. A welcome booklet, including emergency contacts and other information, will be provided by the Town that must be made available to all guests.

  7. Every STR operator must maintain a daily register of guests and provide a copy to the Town upon request.

  8. Advertising a Short term rental without a business licence has a $250 penalty per day. Using land contrary to the Zoning Bylaw also has a separate $250 penalty per day.

  9. A grace period of six months from the adoption date, starting March 12th, 2024, has been granted. During this time, STR operators are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new regulations and bring their operations into alignment.

For those seeking further information or assistance navigating the new bylaws, the Community Planning and Development Office is available to provide support. Contact details are as follows:

  • CLOSED: This survey has concluded.

    SURVEY CLOSED: Community Feedback Survey on Proposed STR Regulations

    The Town of Creston is considering implementing regulations for STRs (such as Airbnb, VRBO, and similar platforms) within our community. STRs have become increasingly popular in recent years, and while they can provide an additional source of income for homeowners, they can also have a significant impact on the character and livability of our neighborhoods. The Town is seeking input from residents to help shape any potential regulations that may be adopted. We would appreciate it if you could take a few minutes to complete this survey and share your thoughts and concerns on this topic. Your feedback is important to us, and will help inform the Town's decision-making process.

    Consultation has concluded
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