Burnaby Short Term Rental Rules & Regulations 2026
Navigate Burnaby's evolving short-term rental bylaws with expert guidance. Understand licensing requirements, zoning restrictions, and compliance strategies for BC's third-largest city.
Understanding Burnaby's STR Framework
Burnaby has implemented comprehensive short‑term rental regulations to balance housing availability with tourism accommodation needs. Here's what property owners need to know.
Principal Residence Requirement
STRs are only permitted in your principal residence, similar to Vancouver regulations.
Business License Required
All STR operators must obtain a valid Burnaby business license before listing.
Zoning Restrictions
STRs are permitted in residential zones with specific conditions and limitations.
Safety Compliance
Properties must meet fire safety, building code, and insurance requirements.
Annual License Fee
Max Rental Days (Non‑Principal)
Daily Violation Penalties
Enforcement Style: Provincial Registry + Complaint-Based
Burnaby follows BC's Provincial Registry requirements with automatic platform de-listing for non-compliant properties. The city also investigates neighbor complaints and conducts regular audits. Daily penalties of $1,000+ apply for operating without proper licensing.
How to Get Licensed in Burnaby
Follow these steps to obtain your short‑term rental business licence and operate legally in Burnaby.
Verify Eligibility
Confirm your property is your principal residence and located in a permitted zone.
- Principal residence documentation
- Zoning verification
- Strata approval if applicable
Gather Documentation
Prepare all required documents including proof of residence and insurance.
- Government-issued ID
- Proof of principal residence
- $2M liability insurance
Submit Application
Complete the business license application through the City of Burnaby.
- Online or in‑person submission
- Pay application fee
- Property inspection may be required
Receive License
Once approved, display your license number on all rental listings.
- License valid for one year
- Must be displayed on all platforms
- Annual renewal required
Where Can You Operate an STR in Burnaby?
Burnaby's zoning bylaws determine where short-term rentals are permitted. Understanding these restrictions is crucial before investing in or listing a property.
R1 - R5 Residential
PermittedPrincipal residence only, max 2 guests per bedroom
RM - Multi-Family
ConditionalSubject to strata bylaws and building regulations
C - Commercial
Not PermittedSTRs not allowed in commercial zones
P - Park/Institutional
Not PermittedNo residential STR activity allowed
Always verify your specific property's zoning with the City of Burnaby before applying for an STR license.
Burnaby STR Market Performance
As Metro Vancouver's third-largest city, Burnaby offers strong STR potential with proximity to Vancouver, excellent transit, and diverse attractions.
Average Nightly Rate
+12% YoYAverage Occupancy
+5% YoYActive STR Listings
Growing MarketAvg Annual Revenue
Top PerformersKey Demand Drivers
Metropolis at Metrotown
Burnaby Mountain
Central Park
SFU Campus
Deer Lake Park
Brentwood Town Centre
Why Burnaby for STR?
- SkyTrain Connectivity
Multiple stations provide easy access to Vancouver and beyond
- Lower Entry Costs
More affordable than Vancouver with similar demand potential
- Business Travel
Corporate headquarters and tech companies drive weekday demand
- University Visitors
SFU and BCIT bring consistent visitor traffic year-round
Start Your Burnaby STR Journey Today
Let us handle Burnaby's STR regulations while you enjoy stress‑free rental income. Our local expertise ensures you stay compliant and profitable.
Serving Burnaby property owners • Expert STR compliance management