Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing Changes

Update: July 2025

On June 9, 2025 Council adopted an amendment to the Zoning Bylaw to comply with the Provincial Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing rules. On June 16, 2025, Council directed staff to consider low-density housing that protects the existing character of residential neighbourhoods. In this way, the City is looking at how to increase the amount of small-scale housing in locations that make sense. 

For more information is available on the Growing Livable Neighbourhoods page

In 2023, the Government of British Columbia announced a range of new housing rules to increase housing supply across the province. One of those rules requires cities to allow up to 3, 4, or 6 dwelling units to be built on certain properties. 

At the May 5, 2025 Regular Council meeting, City staff presented a draft Small Scale Multi-Unit Housing bylaw. At this meeting, Council requested staff reconsider this bylaw with a view to better manage growth and accommodating more housing in the City. Staff are now working on a two-step process to ensure the City is compliant with Provincial requirements, while also considering areas of the City where additional lower-density housing could be added.

The City amended the Zoning Bylaw on June 9, 2025, to comply with the new Provincial rules. The changes affect 19 zones encompassing 35 properties. The bylaw also relaxed restrictions on where coach houses may be built. These changes allow impacted property owners the opportunity to add more units to their property, should they wish to do so. They do not set a minimum number of units that must be built. 


Next Steps

June/July 2025

  • Engagement with builders and the development industry on the draft zone and design guidelines.
  • Community engagement on the draft zone, guidelines and implementation of the new zone.

Contact Us

Planning & Development Team
Phone: 604-982-9675
Email: zoningupdate@cnv.org

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