Maple Ridge, B.C. – October 31, 2025 – The City of Maple Ridge is reminding owners operating Short-Term Rentals (STRs) that all STRs are required to have a business licence issued (or an application in process) by December 31, 2025. The new regulations and licensing requirements were introduced in April 2025.
As of January 1, 2026, Short-Term Rental operators are required to obtain a business licence from the City of Maple Ridge prior to registering with the Provincial Short-Term Rental Registry. The requirement aims to enhance the oversight of Short-Term Rentals and promote responsible hosting in the region.
“This new licensing requirement gives us a stronger, clearer framework for overseeing Short-Term Rentals in our community,” said Mayor Dan Ruimy. “We are committed to providing safe, well-managed accommodations that benefit both visitors and residents. This system also helps ensure that STRs are operating legally and responsibly, so they remain a positive part of our community.”
New Short-Term Rental Regulations
The new regulations, approved by City Council on April 22, 2025, respond to feedback from residents and reflect the City’s ongoing efforts to balance the economic benefits of Short-Term Rentals with the need for sustainable, well-managed neighbourhoods and to protect long-term housing.
Key highlights include:
- Business Licence Requirement: All Short-Term Rental operators in Maple Ridge, including those on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO, will need to have obtained a business licence or have applied for one by December 31, 2025. This complements the existing Provincial registry requirement under the BC Short-Term Rental Accommodations Act.
- Parking and Safety Standards: Operators must provide off-street parking and meet fire and safety standards. Proof of insurance and emergency contact information are also required.
- Principal Residence Requirement: Only principal residences (properties where the owner resides for the majority of the year) can be used for Short-Term Rentals. Short-Term Rentals are not permitted in multi-family units such as townhouses and apartments.
- Lot Size Requirement: Properties must have a minimum lot size of 371 square metres to qualify for an STR business licence.
- Guest Capacity: Operators can list up to three bedrooms individually or one entire unit, with a maximum of six guests per listing.
What This Means for Hosts
Current Short-Term Rental operators in Maple Ridge must complete an application for a business licence, which includes providing proof of insurance, a complete licensing application, a parking plan, and compliance with fire and safety regulations. As part of the application process, a Building Inspector and a Bylaw Compliance Officer will visit the property for inspections.
The City of Maple Ridge is encouraging current and prospective STR hosts to learn more about the new regulations and business licence application process by booking a one-on-one information session with a City Planner. These sessions provide an opportunity to discuss the specific requirements for their property.
For more information and to book an information session visit MapleRidge.ca/ShortTermRental.
For any inquiries related to Short-Term Rental licensing please contact the City’s Business Licensing and Short-Term Rental team at 604-467-7440 or BusLic@MapleRidge.ca.
Background
The City of Maple Ridge has been reviewing its Short-Term Rental policies since 2019 to ensure that they align with the broader Provincial goals of addressing the housing crisis while also supporting tourism and economic growth. Public engagement, conducted in 2023, played a key role in shaping the regulations, which include the requirement for business licences as well as compliance with Provincial registration standards.
For more detailed information on the Short-Term Rental regulations and application process, visit MapleRidge.ca/ShortTermRental.
- 30 -
Media contact
Pardeep Purewal, Senior Manager Corporate Communications and Public Engagement
T 604 466 4319 C 778 955 4249
E Media@MapleRidge.ca