TOWNSHIP OF ESQUIMALT STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: June 22, 2026 Report No. DEV-26-032
TO: Council
FROM: Bill Brown, Director of Development Services
SUBJECT: Short Term Rentals Proposed Regulatory Framework
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
That Council direct staff to prepare amendments to the Zoning Bylaw, Business Licence Bylaw, and the Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, based on the proposed regulatory framework outlined in the Report attached as Appendix "A" to Staff Report DEV-26-032.
Body
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
On March 16, 2026, the Short-Term Rental Policy Analysis Report was presented to Council by the consultant (see staff report DEV-26-011). Following the presentation Council provided staff and the consultant with direction upon which to base future regulations (Appendix "B"). Based on Council's direction, the Consultant has prepared a Short-Term Rental Regulatory Outline (Appendix "A"). Council now needs to provide staff and the consultant with specific guidance, based on the information provided in the Report, that will then form the basis for a series of amendments to the Zoning Bylaw, Business Licence Bylaw, and Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw along with a policy and operational procedures document.
BACKGROUND:
The consultant has prepared a Report (Appendix "A") that provides Council with options based on their direction at the March 16, 2026, Council meeting. The Report outlines options for amending the Zoning Bylaw, Parking Bylaw, Business License Bylaw, Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, and creating a policy and operational procedures document. Highlights from the consultant's Report are outlined below:
1. Zoning Bylaw
1.1. Bed and Breakfasts
1.1.1. Eliminate the existing Bed and Breakfast term and regulations.
1.1.2. Extend the meal permission to all STR operators.
1.1.3. Amend or rezone the RS-4 and RS-4A zones to align with a standard residential zone.
1.2. Keep the "Tourist Accommodation" term to allow for amenity-rich, dedic...
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