Short-term Rentals (STR) Update

News Item

Saanich, BC – The District of Saanich regulates short-term rentals. Short-term rentals are not currently permitted in any zone or housing type.

Through Housing Strategy Action 7.1, staff are reviewing short-term rental regulations in the context of new provincial legislation and enforcement tools.

On April 27, 2026, staff presented some options to Council that consider the need for long-term rental housing while balancing supplementary income opportunities for homeowners. This is a Phase 2 action in the Housing Strategy, timed for 2025 to 2028. Council asked staff to initiate this work in mid-2025. In December of last year, Council endorsed the Housing Strategy Priorities Plan 2026–2028 with a timeline for this work of 2026. 

Upon reviewing and considering these options, Council has now asked staff to provide information on the City of Victoria’s approach to regulating STRs. Council has not made a decision on the approach to regulating STRs, and staff have not yet been directed to develop bylaws.

Staff anticipate returning to Council with this report in about 2 months’ time. The District thanks residents for their patience while this work is undertaken.

Please stay tuned to the Short-Term Rentals (STR) page for future updates.