The rental platform says new short-term rental restrictions could have negative implications on tax revenue.
Hosts renting out space in B.C. communities through Airbnb generated $93 million in taxes in 2023, the vacation rental company said last week.
Airbnb says nationwide it has generated approximately $319 million in taxes, including approximately $164 million in federal goods and services tax, harmonized sales tax and PST. “If they're so concerned about taxes, why didn't they consider charging hotel taxes and getting properties to pay for commercial rates as opposed to residential rates? If you're really talking about taxes, Airbnb, then let's talk about taxes,” said Yan.
The province is implementing new rules for short-term rentals on May 1, restricting accommodations offered through online platforms such as Airbnb or Vrbo to an owner’s principal residence, in addition to forcing short-term rental platforms to share their data with the province.Vancouver also cracked down this year on these rentals by increasing the cost of a short-term rental license from $109 to $1,000.