Short-Term Rentals (STR) allow homeowners the ability to rent an accommodation for overnight stays inside a dwelling unit in their principal residence. As of March 2026, zoning and business license bylaw changes were adopted, establishing regulations to permit short-term rentals in the District of Oak Bay.
The first step in applying to host a Short-Term Rental in Oak Bay is to ensure your property meets the eligibility criteria, along with Provincial and Municipal Requirements.
Short-Term Rental Eligibility
One per Property
Only one short-term rental is permitted on a parcel of land.
Principal Residence
The STR must be operated in the host’s principal residence.
Dwelling Unit
Must operate in a dwelling unit constructed under an approved building permit.
Secondary Suite
An STR may operate in a secondary suite if the host's principal residence is on the same property.
Maximum Nights
An STR can be rented for a maximum of 60 overnight stays per calendar yer
Provincial Requirements
Short-term rental operators in British Columbia are required to register with the Provincial Short-Term Rental Registry and display registration numbers with online listings.
Oak Bay Requirements
Operators within the District of Oak Bay must comply with municipal bylaws and licensing requirements. This includes obtaining a business license.
Oak Bay Short-Term Rental Business Licence
Hosts will need to submit a Short-Term Rental Business Licence Application, along with supporting documentation, to meet District requirements. This includes:
- Proof you (the operator) reside at the property as your principal residence
- Confirmation you're the registered owner of the dwelling unit
- A safety plan and floor plan
- Contact information for the host
- A $100 fee
We’re finalizing the Short-Term Rental Business Licence application process and materials.
If you are interested in operating a Short-Term Rental in Oak Bay, you can email your name and contact information to be added to a contact list.
Once the application package is available, we will reach out to those who have expressed interest.
Sign up for Application Updates
Email us through the address below with your name and contact information so we can notify you when application forms are available.
Background
March 2026
On March 9, Oak Bay Council adopted Zoning Bylaw Amendment No. 4922, establishing regulations that permit and govern Short-Term Rentals within the District of Oak Bay. The program has been set up to align the District’s limited options for short-term rentals with the provincial approval.
Anyone operating a Short-Term Rental in Oak Bay must obtain a Short-Term Rental Business Licence and comply with the applicable Zoning and Business Licence Bylaws.
May 2025
As of May 1, Short-Term Rental operators in British Columbia were required to register with the Provincial Short-Term Rental Registry. The provincial registration number must be displayed on online listings and may be required by booking platforms.