West Kelowna council approved new bylaws regarding short-term rentals after extensive deliberation, focusing on exemptions for certain property zones. The changes cover zoning, licensing, enforcement, and fees. The city chose not to adopt the province’s short-term rental legislation due to its high vacancy rate. Short-term rentals will also remain limited to primary residences outside of resort areas and tourist zones. Concerns arose over excluding properties in the compact single detached residential zone (RC3) from exemptions, prompting discussions during a public hearing. Despite calls for inclusion, planner Chris Oliver highlighted logistical challenges such as parking issues.

While the council unanimously passed the bylaws, concerns lingered about the potential strain on the vacancy rate and community dynamics. A request was made for a report outlining the scope of implementing short-term rental policies in the RC3 zone, reflecting ongoing deliberations on the matter.