INFORMATION RELEASE

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) is considering new regulations that would require operators of tourist accommodations in Electoral Area “E” to obtain a business licence. The proposed business licence amendment bylaw for tourist accommodations would only apply to Electoral Area "E" and does not apply to any other Electoral Areas.

The proposed bylaw amendment for tourist accommodations is in addition to the proposed Business Licence Regulations Bylaw that would introduce licensing requirements for operators of short-term rental accommodations (e.g., "vacation rentals" and "bed and breakfast operations") in Electoral Areas "A", "D", "E" and "I".

Tourist accommodations include the following businesses:

• Agri-tourism accommodations
• Campgrounds
• Hotels
• Motels
• Tourist accommodations
• Tourist cabins

Proposed regulations
If adopted, the bylaw will require operators of tourist accommodations to obtain a business licence.
An annual fee of $200 is also being proposed for tourist accommodation business licences.

Additional information
Anyone who considers themselves affected by the proposed bylaw is encouraged to submit written representations to the Regional District by Friday, June 20, 2025, at 4:00 pm. Written representations can be mailed or dropped off at the Regional District office located at 101 Martin Street, Penticton, BC V2A 5J9. Alternatively, representations can be emailed to RDOS Planning at planning@rdos.bc.ca.

To learn more about the Business Licence Regulations Amendment Bylaw, please visit the project webpage at rdos.bc.ca.

For further information, please contact RDOS Communications.

-30-

Mark Pendergraft, Chair
Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen 

Contact:

RDOS Communications
250-490-4148
Toll-free 1-877-610-3737