What are Short-Term Rental (Airbnb, VRBO) Regulations in Langford, British Columbia?

Short-term rentals like Airbnb and VRBO have become a popular way for Langford homeowners to earn extra income and for travelers to find unique accommodations. But with their rise, both the province of British Columbia and the City of Langford have tightened the rules. Here’s what you need to know if you’re thinking about starting or continuing a short-term rental business in Langford.

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Langford

As of May 1, 2024, British Columbia’s Short-Term Rental Accommodations Act ushered in sweeping changes for STR operators across the province-including Langford. The new law’s main goal is to return more housing to the long-term rental market and address housing shortages.

The new law includes:

• Principal Residence Only: You can only operate a short-term rental in your principal residence-the home you live in for most of the year. You’re allowed to rent out one extra unit on the same property, like a basement suite or garden suite, but not multiple investment properties.
• Provincial Registry: By early 2025, every STR host must register with the province and display a registration number on their listings. Platforms like Airbnb and VRBO will be required to remove any listing that doesn’t have this number.
• Big Fines for Non-Compliance: Individuals can be fined up to $50,000, and corporations up to $100,000, for breaking the rules. There’s a new provincial enforcement unit to ensure hosts and platforms follow the law.
• No More Grandfathering: If your STR was previously allowed under old rules but doesn’t comply with the new ones, you can no longer operate under “legal non-conforming use” protections.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Langford

Langford’s short-term rental (STR) landscape is shaped by both provincial and municipal rules. While the city has historically not required a specific business license for STRs, the regulatory environment is evolving in response to new provincial legislation. Here’s a comprehensive look at what’s required for STR operators in Langford as of spring 2025.

Current Licensing Requirement

Short-term rental (STR) operators in Langford are not currently required to obtain a business license specifically for short-term rentals. According to the City of Langford’s official website, “The City of Langford does not currently require a business license for short-term rentals.” This stands in contrast to some neighboring municipalities, where a specific short-term rental business license is mandatory.

While all general businesses in Langford typically require a business license, the city has made an explicit exception for STRs at this time. There is no dedicated licensing system or annual fee for Airbnb or VRBO hosts operating in Langford. However, STR operators must still comply with provincial regulations, including the principal residence requirement and the upcoming provincial registry for short-term rentals.

What You Must Do as an STR Host in Langford

Despite the lack of a municipal STR license, hosts must still comply with other requirements:

1. Provincial Registration: By early 2025, all STR hosts in British Columbia, including Langford, must register with the provincial short-term rental registry. Hosts will receive a registration number that must be displayed on all listings.
2. Principal Residence Rule: STRs are only permitted in a host’s principal residence and one additional unit on the same property, such as a suite or accessory dwelling. This is a provincial requirement.
3. Zoning Compliance: Your property must be in a zone that permits short-term rentals. Always check Langford’s zoning bylaws to ensure your property is eligible.
4. Strata Approval: If your property is in a strata or condominium, you must have strata council approval to operate an STR.
5. Safety and Community Standards: STR units must meet fire and building codes, have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and comply with occupancy limits. Hosts are responsible for ensuring guests do not cause noise, parking, or nuisance issues.

Where to Submit Requirements

Provincial Registry: Registration for short-term rentals must be completed through the provincial government’s online portal. This is mandatory for all STR hosts in Langford and across British Columbia.

Zoning and Strata Compliance: No submission is required to the city unless you are seeking clarification or an exception regarding zoning. For strata properties, approval must be secured directly from your strata council.

Fees

Provincial Registry Fee: The province may charge a fee for STR registration, but details are pending as the system rolls out.

No Municipal STR License Fee: There is currently no business license fee specific to short-term rentals in Langford since the city doesn’t require STRs to register for a business license.

Processing Time

1. Provincial Registration: The registration process is expected to be completed online and should take only a few days, provided all required information is submitted accurately.
2. Zoning/Strata Checks: Timeframes vary depending on the complexity of your situation and how quickly your strata council responds.

Fines and Penalties

1. Operating Without Provincial Registration: Hosts who fail to register with the provincial STR registry or who violate the principal residence rule face significant penalties. Fines can reach up to $50,000 for individuals and $100,000 for corporations.
2. Municipal Enforcement: While Langford does not currently issue fines for operating without a municipal STR license, failure to comply with general business, zoning, or nuisance bylaws can still result in fines or legal action.
3. Platform Removal: Listings without a valid provincial registration number will be removed from platforms like Airbnb and VRBO.

Langford’s approach to STR licensing is currently more relaxed than some neighboring cities, but hosts must remain vigilant as provincial rules tighten and local bylaws continue to evolve. Always check the city’s website and the provincial registry for the latest updates before listing your property.

Required Documents for Langford, British Columbia Short-Term Rentals

Operating a short-term rental in Langford involves meeting both provincial and municipal requirements. Here’s a detailed list of the documents you’ll need, along with concise explanations and where to obtain each one:

1. Provincial Short-Term Rental Registry Number

Purpose: Confirms your property is registered with British Columbia’s provincial short-term rental registry, as required by the Short-Term Rental Accommodations Act.

Where to Get It: Register online through the provincial government’s short-term rental registry portal. Upon approval, you’ll receive a unique registration number to display on all listings.

2. Proof of Principal Residence

Purpose: Demonstrates that the rental property is your primary residence, as mandated by provincial law.

Where to Get It: Acceptable documents include a government-issued photo ID, utility bills, or property tax statements showing your name and address.

3. Proof of Ownership or Lease Agreement

Purpose: Confirms your legal right to operate a short-term rental at the address.

Where to Get It: Submit a property title document or, if renting, a signed lease agreement with written permission from the property owner.

4. Strata or Condo Approval (if applicable)

Purpose: Ensures compliance with building or strata bylaws, which may restrict or prohibit short-term rentals.

Where to Get It: Obtain written approval or a letter of consent from your strata council or property management company.

5. Floor Plan of the Rental Unit

Purpose: Provides the city and province with details about the layout, room sizes, and safety features of the rental space.

Where to Get It: Create a detailed floor plan yourself or hire a professional. Some hosts use online tools or local drafting services.

6. Proof of Insurance

Purpose: Verifies that you have adequate insurance coverage for short-term rental activity, protecting both you and your guests.

Where to Get It: Request a certificate of insurance or policy summary from your insurance provider, specifically showing coverage for short-term rental use.

7. Emergency Contact Information

Purpose: Required for guest safety and compliance with health and safety standards.

Where to Get It: Provide your own contact details or those of a designated local representative who can respond to emergencies.

8. Payment of Applicable Fees

Purpose: Covers the cost of registration and licensing, where required.

Where to Get It: Pay online through the provincial registry portal or, if municipal licensing is required, through the City of Langford’s payment system.

9. Safety Compliance Documentation

Purpose: Confirms that the property meets fire and building codes, including smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Where to Get It: Prepare a checklist or obtain a safety inspection report from a certified professional if requested.

Before submitting, double-check with the City of Langford and the provincial registry for the most current requirements. Regulations are evolving, and staying up to date ensures your short-term rental remains fully compliant.

Langford, British Columbia Short-Term Rental Taxes

Short-term rental operators in Langford face a multi-layered tax environment, with obligations at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels. Here’s a breakdown of each tax type, the typical rates, and what you need to know to stay compliant.

Federal Income Tax

1. All income earned from short-term rentals must be reported as rental income on your Canadian tax return.
2. The tax rate depends on your total income and tax bracket. For most individuals, this ranges from 15% to 33%.
3. If your rental activity is considered a business (for example, you provide regular cleaning, meals, or concierge services), you may be subject to additional requirements.

Provincial Income Tax (British Columbia)

1. British Columbia levies its own income tax, which is added to your federal obligation.
2. Rates are progressive, ranging from about 5.06% to 20.5%, depending on your income level.
3. Both federal and provincial income taxes apply to net rental income after allowable expenses.

Goods and Services Tax (GST)

1. If your gross rental revenues exceed $30,000 in a 12-month period, you must register for and collect GST.
2. The GST rate is 5%.
3. GST is charged to guests on the rental amount and remitted to the Canada Revenue Agency.

Provincial Sales Tax (PST)

1. Short-term accommodations in British Columbia are subject to an 8% Provincial Sales Tax.
2. Hosts must register, collect, and remit PST on all stays less than 27 consecutive days.
3. This tax is typically added to the nightly rate charged to guests.

Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT)

1. Langford, like many municipalities in BC, may be subject to the MRDT, which is up to 3%.
2. This tax is collected on behalf of the municipality to support local tourism and infrastructure.
3. Hosts are responsible for registering, collecting, and remitting the MRDT.

Possible Write-Offs and Deductions

• You can deduct reasonable expenses directly related to earning your short-term rental income, such as mortgage interest, property taxes, utilities, insurance, repairs, cleaning fees, and advertising costs.
• Only expenses related to compliant short-term rentals are deductible. If your STR does not meet all provincial and municipal requirements, you cannot claim deductions for those expenses.
• To claim deductions, keep detailed records and receipts. Use Form T776 to calculate allowable expenses and report them on your tax return.
• Common write-offs include a portion of home insurance, internet, supplies, and maintenance costs proportional to the rental use of your property.

By understanding and meeting your tax obligations, you can confidently operate your Langford short-term rental business and keep more of your hard-earned income.

British Columbia Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

British Columbia has introduced some of the strictest short-term rental regulations in Canada, fundamentally reshaping the way hosts operate across the province-including in Langford. These rules are designed to address housing shortages, enhance consumer safety, and give local governments more control over the short-term rental market.

Short-Term Rental Accommodations Act

At the heart of the new regulatory landscape is the Short-Term Rental Accommodations Act. This law defines a short-term rental as any accommodation rented to the public for less than 90 consecutive days. The Act applies to most communities in BC, especially those with populations over 10,000, and to smaller neighboring areas or those that opt in.

Principal Residence Requirement

A key provision is the principal residence requirement. As of May 1, 2024, hosts can only offer short-term rentals in their principal residence-the home where they live most of the year. In addition, they may rent out one secondary suite or accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on the same property. This rule is intended to return more housing to the long-term rental market and curb the proliferation of investment properties being used exclusively for short-term stays.

Mandatory Provincial Registry

By May 1, 2025, every short-term rental host in British Columbia must register with the new provincial Short-Term Rental Registry. Upon approval, hosts receive a unique registration number that must be displayed on all listings. Short-term rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO are required to validate these numbers and remove any listings that do not comply. Failure to display a valid registration number will result in the removal of listings and cancellation of future bookings.

Supporting Documentation

To register, hosts must provide proof that the property is their principal residence, such as government-issued identification or utility bills. Those seeking exemptions-such as for strata hotels, time shares, or resort properties-must submit additional documentation.

Annual Renewal and Fees

Registration must be renewed annually. Fees vary depending on the type of rental, with lower fees for principal residences and higher fees for secondary or non-owner-occupied units.

Strata and Local Bylaws

Strata corporations retain the right to further restrict or prohibit short-term rentals within their buildings. Violating strata bylaws can result in fines of up to $1,000 per day. Municipalities and regional districts can also set their own licensing requirements, zoning restrictions, and enforcement measures, which may be stricter than provincial rules.

Data Sharing and Enforcement

Major short-term rental platforms are now required to share detailed listing and booking data with the province monthly. This information is confidential but is shared with local governments to support bylaw enforcement. The province has also established a Compliance and Enforcement Unit dedicated to monitoring compliance, issuing orders, and levying penalties.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Penalties for violating short-term rental laws are substantial. Individuals can be fined up to $50,000, while corporations face fines up to $100,000. Municipalities can issue fines of up to $3,000 per day for each infraction. Regional districts have similar powers to regulate, license, and enforce short-term rental rules.

Loss of Grandfathering Protections

Previously, some properties could continue operating as short-term rentals even if they didn’t meet new requirements, due to “legal non-conforming use” protections. These protections have been removed, meaning all STRs must now comply with current provincial and local regulations.

These province-wide rules set a high bar for compliance and transparency, ensuring that short-term rentals contribute positively to local communities while protecting housing availability for residents.

Does Langford, British Columbia Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Langford has historically been one of the more Airbnb-friendly cities on Vancouver Island, especially when compared to neighboring Victoria. While Victoria has long enforced a dedicated short-term rental licensing system with strict penalties and regular inspections, Langford’s approach has been notably hands-off.

On forums like Reddit and BiggerPockets, hosts consistently report that Langford does not have a specific licensing system for short-term rentals. The city’s official website confirms this, stating that “The City of Langford does not currently require a business license for short-term rentals.” Instead, Langford treats all businesses-including short-term rentals-under its general business licensing framework, and even that requirement has been ambiguously enforced for STRs. This has led to a climate where many hosts have operated Airbnbs and VRBOs with little interference from local authorities.

However, this Airbnb-friendly reputation is under pressure. The introduction of British Columbia’s Short-Term Rental Accommodations Act in 2024 is forcing all municipalities, including Langford, to tighten up enforcement. The new provincial rules require STRs to be in a host’s principal residence, mandate registration with a provincial registry, and introduce significant fines for non-compliance. While Langford has not yet rolled out a dedicated local enforcement blitz, hosts on BiggerPockets and Reddit have started to express concern that the era of easy, low-regulation hosting is coming to an end.

Despite the looming changes, many hosts in Langford continue to operate, taking advantage of the current lack of strict local enforcement. Some have openly admitted on forums to running STRs without any business license, banking on the city’s historically relaxed attitude. Others are preparing for a shift, noting that the city is reviewing its bylaws and will likely align more closely with provincial requirements soon.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Langford

Starting a short-term rental business in Langford requires careful attention to both provincial and municipal rules. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you launch your Airbnb or VRBO with confidence and compliance:

Confirm Your Property’s Eligibility

• Ensure your property is your principal residence, as required by British Columbia’s Short-Term Rental Accommodations Act. You may also rent out one additional unit on the same property, such as a legal suite or accessory dwelling unit.
• Check your property’s zoning to make sure short-term rentals are permitted. Some neighborhoods have restrictions, and strata or condo buildings often require written approval.

Gather Required Documentation

• Collect proof of ownership or a signed lease agreement, a detailed floor plan, and proof of valid insurance for short-term rental activity.
• If your property is in a strata or condo, secure written consent from the strata council or property manager.

Register with the Provincial Short-Term Rental Registry

• Sign up on the provincial registry and submit all required documentation. Once approved, you’ll receive a unique registration number.
• Display this registration number on all your listings. This is mandatory, and platforms like Airbnb and VRBO will not allow your listing to go live without it.

Prepare Your Property for Guests

• Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and ensure the property meets all safety and building codes.
• Furnish the space attractively and provide essential amenities. Consider professional cleaning and high-quality linens to boost guest satisfaction.
• Create a comprehensive house manual with emergency contacts, house rules, and local recommendations.

List Your Property on STR Platforms

• Create detailed, appealing listings on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. Use professional photos and write clear, engaging descriptions.
• Set competitive rates by researching similar listings in Langford and adjusting for seasonality or special events.

Manage Bookings and Guest Communication

• Respond promptly to inquiries and booking requests to maintain a high response rate.
• Use property management software or calendar syncing tools to avoid double bookings and streamline operations.
• Be proactive in communicating check-in instructions, house rules, and responding to guest needs.

Comply with Tax Obligations

• Register for and collect GST, PST, and MRDT as required. Keep meticulous records of all income and expenses.
• Consult a tax professional to maximize deductions and ensure you’re remitting the correct amounts to federal and provincial authorities.

Maintain Your Property and Reputation

• Schedule regular maintenance and deep cleaning between guests. Promptly address repairs and guest feedback.
• Encourage reviews and respond to both positive and negative feedback to build trust and improve your listing’s ranking.

Stay Informed and Adapt

• Monitor updates from the City of Langford and the Province of British Columbia, as regulations are subject to change.
• Join local host groups or online forums to stay connected with other operators and share best practices.

Tips for Success:

1. Always operate transparently and keep documentation organized.
2. Prioritize guest safety and comfort to earn positive reviews.
3. Stay ahead of regulatory changes to avoid fines or listing removals.

By following these steps and maintaining a proactive, professional approach, you’ll position your short-term rental business for long-term success in Langford’s evolving regulatory landscape.

Who to Contact in Langford, British Columbia about Short-Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

If you have questions about short-term rental (STR) regulations, zoning, or business licensing in Langford, several official contacts and community resources can help you navigate the process and stay compliant.

City of Langford Planning Department
For zoning, land use, and regulatory questions related to short-term rentals:

1. Phone: (250) 474-6919
2. Email: planning@langford.ca
3. Address: 2nd Floor, 877 Goldstream Avenue, Langford, BC V9B 2X8

City of Langford Business Licensing Department
For inquiries about business licensing requirements and applications:

1. Phone: (250) 478-7882
2. Address: 2nd Floor, 877 Goldstream Avenue, Langford, BC V9B 2X8
3. Note: STRs are currently not required to get a business license, but this can change in the future.

General City Inquiries
For general questions or to be directed to the appropriate department:

Phone: (250) 478-7882

Provincial Short-Term Rental Registry and Regulations
If you need clarification on British Columbia’s provincial short-term rental rules or need assistance with the provincial registry:

1. ServiceBC Call Centre: 1-833-828-2240
2. Email: STRregistry@gov.bc.ca

Tips for Contacting City Officials

1. Prepare your property address, specific questions, and any relevant documents before calling or emailing.
2. If you plan to visit City Hall, check office hours in advance.
3. For zoning or bylaw clarifications, contacting the Planning Department directly is usually the fastest route to clear, actionable answers.

Connecting with both official departments and experienced local hosts will help you stay up to date as Langford’s STR regulations continue to evolve.