The Town of Sidney is reminding all short-term rental (STR) operators to apply for a business licence before the fast-approaching deadline of May 1.
This reminder comes as the province mandates registration for all STRs, threatening the removal of unregistered listings from popular online platforms. Since Jan. 1, Sidney's Zoning Bylaw No. 2275 has required STR operators listing on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo to possess a valid business licence.
For municipalities like Sidney, this licence is a crucial requirement for inclusion on the provincial short-term rental registry.
While the town had initially planned a grace period extending to the end of 2025 before enforcing the bylaw, the province's accelerated enforcement timeline necessitates immediate action.
Operators who can demonstrate proof of having applied for a business licence, even if the occupancy permit process is still in progress, may be granted an extension until Aug. 1.
The amendment to the business licence bylaw was adopted by the town council on Nov. 25, 2024.
As Mayor Cliff McNeil-Smith stated in a previous Peninsula News Review article, "By requiring business licensing, in addition to existing short-term rental regulations, the town hopes to more effectively ensure that homes are available for long-term rentals for residents.”
STR operators are encouraged to apply for their business licences promptly to avoid disruption to their online listings and ensure compliance with both municipal and provincial regulations.
