Visitors to Kelowna , B.C., could have more accommodation options starting next year as the city considers asking the province to ease some of the provincial restrictions on short-term rentals, at least partially.

“I think it’s a step in the right direction,’ said Jesse Bernhardt, who owns a unit at the Playa Del Sol building in the city’s Mission area.

The provincial government brought in the restrictions in early 2024 to address the severe shortage of long-term housing.

The legislation essentially banned short-term rentals unless they were in a person’s principle residence.

However, with the city’s vacancy rate on track to stay above 3 per cent for two consecutive years, the city can apply to opt out of the provincial regulations.

A staff report recommends the city request a parti

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