Do I need a business licence for Airbnb in Vancouver?
Quick Answer
Yes, if you operate an Airbnb or any short-term rental (less than 90 consecutive days) in Vancouver, BC, you are legally required to obtain a business license from the City of Vancouver and register with the provincial short-term rental registry. These regulations apply only to your principal residence, which is the home where you primarily live.
Yes, if you operate an Airbnb or any short-term rental (less than 90 consecutive days) in Vancouver, BC, you are legally required to obtain a business license from the City of Vancouver and register with the provincial short-term rental registry. These regulations apply only to your principal residence, which is the home where you primarily live.
To comply, you must first ensure the property is your principal residence and obtain any necessary strata or landlord approvals. The City of Vancouver business license has an annual fee of $1,108 plus a $77 application fee for new applications, and you must also obtain a provincial registration number from British Columbia's short-term rental registry, which costs $100 per year if you live on-site. Both your city business license number and provincial registration number must be displayed on all your online listings to avoid fines of up to $3,000 per day and potential listing removal.
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