By Sean Phillips, REALTOR®, Strand resident ·
Short answer: In BC, the only age restriction a strata can enforce is one requiring at least one resident of a unit to be 55 or older. Other age limits, such as 19+ or 45+, became unenforceable when Bill 44 took effect in November 2022. The province has since added exemptions, for example for caregivers, so check the current rules and the building's bylaws before you buy.
What the law allows
Under the Strata Property Act, a strata may have a bylaw requiring that one or more persons living in a strata lot have reached a specified age of 55 or older. Bylaws setting lower ages are no longer enforceable.
Exemptions
The province has expanded exemptions to 55+ bylaws. They include situations such as caregivers who live with an older resident and people who were already living in the unit when a bylaw was adopted. The details are set out in the Strata Property Regulation, so confirm how they apply to your situation.
Pros of a 55+ building
- A quieter community of people at a similar stage of life
- Often single-level living with elevators
- Social connections and shared interests
Things to consider
- A smaller pool of buyers when you sell, since younger buyers can't live there
- Visiting grandchildren are usually fine, but check rules about long stays
- Rentals: since Bill 44, stratas generally can't ban long-term rentals, but tenants in a 55+ building must still meet the age bylaw
Alternatives for downsizers
Many downsizers choose all-ages waterfront condos instead. You still get lock-and-leave living, and the building appeals to a wider range of buyers when you sell. Read about retiring in Vernon.
Frequently asked questions
Can a BC strata have an age restriction?
Only a 55+ restriction, requiring that one or more residents of a unit be 55 or older. Other age restrictions are unenforceable.
Can I rent out a unit in a 55+ strata?
Stratas generally can't ban long-term rentals, but tenants must still meet the building's 55+ bylaw unless an exemption applies.
Are there exemptions to 55+ bylaws in BC?
Yes. The province has added exemptions, including for some caregivers. Check the Strata Property Regulation and the building's bylaws.
More guides to Okanagan Landing and The Strand
- Retiring in Vernon, BC: Why Downsizers Choose the North Okanagan
- Can a BC Strata Stop You Renting Your Condo? Bill 44 Explained
- Lock-and-Leave Living: Why Snowbirds Choose Okanagan Condos
- The Strand Lakeside FAQ: 50 questions answered
Have a question about waterfront living in Vernon?
I'm Sean Phillips, a REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker Executives Realty. I live at The Strand in Okanagan Landing and specialise in Vernon-area waterfront condos. For current listings and recent sales, visit 7343okanaganlanding.ca.
Text Sean: 778-363-0542
Call or text Sarah, my 24/7 info line: 604-227-4810
This article is general information as of fall 2026, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules, fees and conditions change, so always confirm details with the appropriate professional or authority before making a decision.
General information only, not legal, tax or financial advice. Confirm details for your situation with the appropriate professional.
