BC STR Start-Up Checklist
Starting a Short-Term Rental in British Columbia
Use this checklist to help in setting up your listing. It is designed to help hosts start responsibly and avoid common compliance mistakes in British Columbia.
1. Confirm You Are Allowed to Host
Before anything else, make sure short-term rentals are permitted for your property.
☐ Confirm your property qualifies under BC’s provincial rules
☐ Check whether principal residence requirements apply
☐ Verify local zoning allows short-term rentals
☐ Review municipal bylaws for limits on unit type, nights, or use
Tip: Do not rely on advice from other hosts or rules from nearby municipalities.
2. Complete Required Registrations and Licences
Operating without the right approvals is one of the most common mistakes.
☐ Register with the Province if required
☐ Apply for a municipal business licence where required
☐ Keep licence and registration numbers on file
☐ Display required numbers accurately on all listings
3. Understand Your Tax Responsibilities
Short-term rentals in BC are subject to multiple taxes.
☐ Confirm which taxes apply:
MRDT
PST
GST (if applicable)
☐ Verify whether your platform collects and remits taxes for you
☐ Register with the Province if required
☐ Set up a system to track and store tax records
4. Set Up Proper Insurance
Standard homeowner insurance is often not enough.
☐ Confirm your insurance allows short-term rental use
☐ Obtain additional coverage if needed
☐ Understand what platform protections do and do not cover
5. Prepare the Property for Guests
Your rental should meet safety, cleanliness, and quality expectations.
☐ Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
☐ Provide fire extinguishers and emergency information
☐ Ensure clear exits and safe access
☐ Furnish the space appropriately for your target guests
☐ Arrange reliable cleaning and maintenance support
6. Create Clear House Rules
Clear rules prevent problems before they start.
☐ Set maximum occupancy limits
☐ Prohibit parties and events
☐ Establish quiet hours aligned with local bylaws
☐ Clarify parking, waste, and shared-space rules
☐ Make rules visible before booking and at check-in
7. Set Up Guest Communication Systems
Responsible hosting requires active management.
☐ Create clear pre-arrival and check-in instructions
☐ Provide a local or 24/7 contact where required
☐ Plan how you will respond to issues quickly
☐ Decide how you will handle rule violations
8. Create Accurate Listings
Your listing must reflect how your rental is legally approved to operate.
☐ Use accurate descriptions and photos
☐ List the correct unit type and capacity
☐ Display required registration or licence numbers
☐ Update your listing if your status changes
9. Set Up Record-Keeping
Good records protect you if questions arise.
☐ Save copies of licences and registrations
☐ Track bookings and income
☐ Maintain tax and expense records
☐ Keep important communications
10. Think Long-Term
Responsible hosting is about sustainability, not just short-term income.
☐ Consider neighbourhood impact
☐ Stay informed as rules evolve
☐ Adjust your operations when needed
☐ Engage with host education and best practices
Final Reminder
Short-term rental rules in British Columbia change. Staying informed and operating in good faith is part of responsible hosting.