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Residents in Kelowna, B.C., are bracing themselves for another disruptive season as issues related to short-term rentals continue to impact their neighborhood. Local homeowner Dave Montpetit expressed his concerns, stating that the influx of visitors leads to significant disturbances.
“There are parties, excessive noise, and even inappropriate behavior on the pool deck,” Montpetit lamented about the activities nearby. The root of the problem is a short-term rental property on his street, which is primarily rented out to transient guests.
Montpetit’s frustration is compounded by the fact that the property’s owner is rarely present, potentially violating municipal and provincial regulations that require short-term rentals to serve as the owner’s primary residence. Despite these alleged violations, Montpetit noted a distinct lack of action from city officials, leaving local residents feeling responsible for monitoring the situation.
“We find ourselves in the position of being expected to keep track of noise and other disturbances,” he shared with Global News, underscoring the burdens placed on community members instead of effective enforcement by authorities.
Provincial Registry on the Horizon
However, there may be a glimmer of hope as a new provincial registry is set to be established, intended to address such issues. Montpetit expressed his reliance on this forthcoming system for relief from ongoing disturbances.
B.C. Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon informed that this registry will interface with the Ministry of Finance, which monitors whether residences are primary homes or investment properties. In a recent communication with Global News, the Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs indicated that details regarding the registry will soon be made available, including documentation required to verify a principal residence.
Once implemented, properties found in violation of the new guidelines will be barred from listing on major platforms such as Airbnb and VRBO.
The City of Kelowna acknowledges that enforcing rental regulations can be challenging but remains optimistic about the potential impact of the registry. Ryan Smith, divisional director of planning and development services, noted, “We’re aware of the complaints regarding neighborhood disturbances, and a few property owners are certainly creating issues for others.” He emphasized the hope that provincial collaboration could empower municipalities to take stronger action against disruptive rentals.
Montpetit is eagerly anticipating the launch of the registry, with a clear goal of mitigating the disturbances in his community. “I am hoping for a resolution by this spring,” he stated, reflecting the urgency felt by many residents.
The new registry is expected to become operational within the next few days, promising to facilitate stricter oversight of short-term rentals.
Source
globalnews.ca