By Sean Phillips, REALTOR®, Strand resident ·
Short answer: Since November 24, 2022, BC stratas can no longer enforce bylaws that prohibit or limit long-term rentals. They can still restrict short-term rentals of less than 30 days. Separately, BC's short-term rental law limits most stays under 90 days to the host's principal residence in communities like Vernon. So long-term renting is broadly allowed, but short-term renting depends on both the strata's bylaws and provincial rules.
What Bill 44 changed
Bill 44 amended the Strata Property Act so that bylaws banning or capping rentals are no longer enforceable. That means:
- Owners can rent out their strata lot long-term, even if old bylaws say otherwise
- Stratas can't cap the number of rentals in a building
- Stratas can still restrict short-term rentals (stays of less than 30 days)
The same bill ended age restriction bylaws, except those requiring residents to be 55 or older. See how 55+ stratas work.
What landlords still have to do
- Give tenants the bylaws and rules. Tenants must follow them.
- Provide the strata with a Form K (Notice of Tenant's Responsibilities) signed by the tenant.
- Follow BC's Residential Tenancy Act.
Short-term rentals are different
Even if a strata allows short-term rentals, BC's Short-Term Rental Accommodations Act applies in Vernon. It generally limits stays under 90 days to the host's principal residence. A few Vernon resort properties that qualify as strata hotels, such as The Strand and The Outback Resort, are exempt. Read how this works for rentals at The Strand.
What it means for buyers
- Investors: long-term rentals are now possible in almost any BC strata.
- Owner-occupiers: you may have more tenants as neighbours than in the past.
- Everyone: check the bylaws for short-term rental restrictions and read the minutes.
Frequently asked questions
Can a BC strata ban rentals?
Not long-term rentals. Since November 24, 2022, rental restriction bylaws are unenforceable, but stratas can still restrict short-term rentals of less than 30 days.
Can my strata stop me from using Airbnb?
Yes, a strata can restrict short-term rentals. BC's principal residence requirement may also limit short-term rentals in communities like Vernon.
Do tenants have to follow strata bylaws?
Yes. Landlords must give tenants the bylaws and rules and file a signed Form K with the strata.
More guides to Okanagan Landing and The Strand
- Can You Rent Out Your Condo at The Strand Lakeside?
- Does BC's Speculation and Vacancy Tax Apply in Vernon?
- 55+ Condos in BC: How Age-Restricted Stratas Work
- 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.
