Tourism Whistler fees: Explained
Tourism Whistler fees are an important aspect of owning property in Whistler, especially if you’re considering buying, selling, or renting a property on Resort Land. These fees play a crucial role in supporting the resort’s marketing and ensuring Whistler remains one of the top year-round destinations in the world. Here’s everything you need to know.
What Are Tourism Whistler Fees?
Tourism Whistler fees are provincially mandated for all properties located on designated Resort Land in Whistler. These fees are used to fund marketing and sales initiatives that keep Whistler vibrant and thriving year-round.
Who Pays These Fees?
• All property owners on Resort Land.
• Fees apply to residential and commercial properties, including bare land.
• Properties available for short-term rentals for more than 14 nights per year—or those with restrictive covenants—pay both Common and Commercial Fees.
If a property is rented short-term fewer than 14 nights per year, owners can apply for a fee reduction by completing a Use Declaration Form (UDF) each year.
Why Are These Fees Beneficial?
Tourism Whistler fees provide benefits for property owners and the local economy. Here’s how:
1. Nightly Rental Opportunities
Properties on Resort Land can be rented nightly, giving owners an opportunity to generate revenue.
2. Global Marketing
The fees help fund Whistler’s world-class marketing, ensuring the resort attracts visitors year-round, regardless of weather or economic conditions.
3. Prime Location
Properties on Resort Land are close to key amenities like ski lifts, restaurants, and recreational activities, making them more appealing to renters and visitors.
4. Listing Perks
As a member of Tourism Whistler, you can list your property for nightly rentals on Whistler.com, increasing your property’s visibility to potential renters.
How Fees Are Calculated
Tourism Whistler fees vary depending on the property’s configuration, location, and usage. Here are a couple of examples:
• Two-bedroom condo with a sofa bed (available for nightly rentals): $1,678/year.
• 720 sq. ft. commercial space: $1,343/year.
Fees are also influenced by zoning and any covenants on the property. If you’re not sure about your property’s zoning or fee structure, there are tools available to help you determine this.
How to Check If Fees Apply to Your Property
Here’s how to determine if your property is subject to Tourism Whistler fees:
1. Is the property on Resort Land?
If yes, fees apply. If no, no fees are required.
2. Does the property have a Phase 1 or Phase 2 covenant?
These covenants often require properties to be part of a rental pool when not in use, making both Common and Commercial fees mandatory.
3. Is the property rented short-term for more than 14 nights per year?
If yes, both Common and Commercial fees apply. If no, you can complete a UDF to pay only Common fees.
Restrictive Covenants and Fee Reductions
Properties with Phase 1 or Phase 2 zoning covenants or those located in Whistler’s Town Centre are classified as Lodging Resort Lots. These properties are always subject to both Common and Commercial fees.
If a property does not fall into these categories and is rented short-term fewer than 14 nights annually, owners can apply for reduced fees. Completing a UDF reclassifies the property as a Residential Resort Lot, meaning only Common fees are payable.
Why This Matters for You
Whether you’re a current property owner or considering buying in Whistler, understanding Tourism Whistler fees is essential. These fees support Whistler’s global reputation as a top destination and provide valuable opportunities for property owners, especially those interested in nightly rentals. They also ensure the resort continues to attract visitors, which benefits the local economy and property values.
If you have questions about Tourism Whistler fees, how they apply to your property, or how to maximize your investment in Whistler, we’re here to help.
Contact us ( Team Longmuir Murray ) to discuss your property goals and how we can support you!