Vancouver Rental Property Business License

If you own a rental property located in the City of Vancouver, you are required to obtain a Rental Property Business License.

This requirement applies to all rental properties, including those with only a single rental unit. Operating a rental property without a valid license is a violation of the City’s Business License By-law and may result in fines or enforcement action.

Please note that even if Prompton Real Estate Services manages your property, the Rental Property Business License must be applied for, renewed, and maintained by the property owner. Prompton Real Estate Services is unable to apply for, renew, or manage these licenses on behalf of owners.

Why This License Is Required

There are several reasons why maintaining a rental business license is important:

• It is required by law: The City of Vancouver requires all rental property owners to hold an active business license.

• Avoid fines or enforcement: Property owners operating without a license may face bylaw penalties or be ordered to stop renting the unit until compliance is achieved.

• Protect your investment: Having a valid license ensures your rental property is operating legitimately within the city's regulations.

• Maintain rental income stability: Staying compliant reduces the risk of unexpected disruptions to your rental operations.

Annual Licensee Fees

Rental business license fees are based on the number of units at the property

Number of units	Approximate Annual Fee
1-3 units	~$59
4-9 units	~$136
10-39 units	~$227
40 + units	~$364

Note: Fees are subject to change, so property owners should confirm the latest fee schedule on the City of Vancouver website.

How to Apply

Applying for a rental property business license is a straightforward process.

Step 1: Gather your information

Before applying, have the following details ready:

• Property address

• Number of rental units

• Owner contact information

• BC Assessment details or strata plan information (if applicable)

• 
  

Step 2: Apply online

Visit the City of Vancouver website and search for “Rental Property Business License.” Complete the online application through the City's business license portal.

Step 3: Pay the license fee

Pay the applicable annual fee based on the number of units at your property. Payment can typically be made online.

Step 4: Receive your license

Once your application has been reviewed and approved, the City will issue your rental business license.

Step 5: Renew annually

Rental property business licenses must be renewed every year. The City will typically send a renewal notice, but it is the owner's responsibility to ensure the license remains active.

Important Note from Prompton Real Estate Services

While we are committed to supporting our clients with rental property management, Prompton Real Estate Services cannot apply for, renew, or manage Rental Property Business License on behalf of property owners.

This responsibility rests solely with the property owner.

We encourage all owners to:

• Apply for their license if they have not already done so

• Set a reminder to renew their license annually

• Keep a copy of their license on file

For questions regarding the licensing process, please contact the City of Vancouver directly.

City of Vancouver Business License Office

Phone: 3-1-1 (within Vancouver) or 604-873-7000

Website: vancouver.ca/business-licence

This article is provided for informational purposes only. Tax rules, municipal by-laws, and fees may change over time. Property owners should verify all information directly with the Government of British Columbia or the City of Vancouver.

If you have any questions feel free to reach out! We are happy to help.