The City of North Vancouver is proposing updates to its Official Community Plan (OCP) and Zoning Bylaw in response to new provincial housing legislation.
In November 2025, the Province enacted Bill 25, which expanded areas where Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) is allowed. This means more property owners across the city will have the option to add new housing over time, including in heritage areas.
To comply with Bill 25, the City is required to update its OCP and Zoning Bylaw by June 30, 2026, to:
- Allow up to 6 units of housing per lot in Frequent Transit Areas (400-metre radius around bus stops with frequent transit service).
- Remove minimum on-site parking requirements within Frequent Transit Areas.
- Replace all remaining single-detached and duplex zones with zoning that allows for the development of 3, 4, or 6 units of housing.
The City is proposing an approach that would meet provincial requirements while respecting neighbourhood livability and character. More detailed information about the City’s proposed response is available on the City’s website at cnv.org/Bill25Alignment
Heritage Areas
The expanded provincial requirements impact properties in the City’s heritage areas, with the exception of those protected by Heritage Designation Bylaws prior to June 30, 2024.
As a result, the City is seeking input on how new development can fit into heritage areas in a way that respects character and livability, while still meeting provincial requirements. Your feedback will help inform potential updates to design guidelines, which shape how new housing fits into our neighbourhoods.
Engagement Opportunities
There are a number of ways you can get involved to:
- help the City understand what is most important when it comes to the character of heritage neighbourhoods;
- inform potential updates to design guidelines; and
- learn more about new provincial requirements and proposed changes to the OCP and Zoning Bylaw.
1. Ottawa Gardens Walking Tours
Join City staff for guided walking tours to explore heritage character neighbourhoods firsthand and share what matters most to you
- Monday, Feb. 23 at 3:00 p.m. (1.5-hour tour)
- Saturday, Feb. 28 at 10:00 a.m. (1.5-hour tour)
Meet us at the intersection of W. 6th Street & Chesterfield Avenue (View location in Google Maps). Please wear comfortable footwear and dress according to the weather, as we will be outside for most of the tour.
2. Drop-In Information Sessions
Learn about the provincial legislation changes, heritage areas, and proposed planning changes. Ask questions and share feedback with City staff. Drop in at any time during the following hours.
- Saturday, Feb. 28 between 12:00 and 2:00 p.m. — Queen Mary Elementary School (230 W. Keith Road)
- Tuesday, Mar. 3 between 4:00 and 6:00 p.m. — North Vancouver City Library (120 14th Street W.)
- Wednesday, Mar. 4 between 5:00 and 7:00 p.m. — Royal Canadian Legion Branch 118 (123 15th Street W.)
3. Online Information Showcase
Access information online about the new provincial legislation changes, and participate digitally by providing your feedback on the most important characteristics of heritage properties.
Participate between Feb. 23 and Mar. 13 at letstalk.cnv.org/Bill25Alignment
4. Official Community Plan Town Hall
This meeting is a legislative requirement and will follow a traditional town hall format. This is a formal opportunity to learn about proposed community plan and Zoning Bylaw changes and ask questions.
- Wednesday, April 1 at 5:00 p.m. (2-hour meeting) — John Braithwaite Community Centre Shoreline Room (145 W. 1st Street)
More information may be found at letstalk.cnv.org/Bill25Alignment