Have your say on Revelstoke vacation rentals

Love them? Hate them? Well now is your chance to be heard on the issue of vacation rentals.

These are accommodations that are springing up around town using share economy websites like Airbnb.

They may be an extra room in a family home rented out to short-term vacationers, or they’re a luxurious house booked for a group holiday, or an alternate living situation for a backpacker or young couple.

Whatever they are, they’ve gradually increased in numbers in Revelstoke and with some vocal unhappy neighbours, reduced selection in the rental market, and a business backlash against this unregulated money-maker, the City of Revelstoke is attempting to bring about some order.

“Vacation rentals are a part of our growth as a tourism destination community and we want to see them contribute to the development of our city, ensure they are properly controlled and to be good neighbours in our community,” Revelstoke mayor Mark McKee said.

Vacation rentals are a popular side business for residents in Revelstoke. Photo: Screenshot Airbnb

From now until Wednesday, July 20, people can submit their opinions by:

• email – [email protected]; or
• send a letter – City of Revelstoke, PO Box 170, Revelstoke, BC V0E 2S0; or
• drop a note into Revelstoke City Hall at 216 Mackenzie Avenue.

Input received will help the city’s legislation makers decide how to police the issue, as well as gain insight into the opportunities and concerns of this accommodation type.

Feedback will be compiled and presented to city council in a report.

“Regulations have been in place for the last two years, the city is interested to hear what the community has to say and what potential changes could be made to help make vacation rental accommodations work better in our community,” Revelstoke’s manager of development services Dean Strachan said.

See the Mountaineer’s previous gallery of stories on vacation rentals.