Provincial Housing Legislation Updates

How we're responding to new provincial housing legislation in the City.


Since 2023, the provincial government has enacted legislation aimed at increasing the supply of housing within British Columbia. This includes legislation on Transit-Oriented Areas, Short-term Rentals, Development Financing Tools and Small-Scale Multi-Unit housing, and more. The City has since been updating its regulations to align with the legislation. 

Bill 25: Response to provincial requirements

On November 27, 2025, the Province enacted Bill 25 to help remove barriers to building Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing across municipalities in British Columbia.

In response, the City is proposing updates to its Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw that would meet provincial requirements while better enabling growth that respects the livability and character of our neighbourhoods.

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Duplex

Since 2023, the provincial government introduced a range of new housing rules to help increase housing supply. This includes requiring cities to allow the optional development of 3, 4, or 6 units on certain properties.

Lonsdale Quay Transit Exchange
On June 24, 2024, Council adopted a bylaw designating properties within 400 metres of the Lonsdale Quay Bus Exchange as a Transit-Oriented Area (TOA). This bylaw, in line with provincial housing legislation, sets minimum allowable building heights and densities for new residential development and prohibits minimum off-street residential parking requirements.
person writing
Development Financing Tools
These changes to the Local Government Act are designed to enable municipalities to better fund community amenities. The City is undertaking a study to determine how best to implement this new community building tool. There is no mandated deadline for the completion of this work or for adoption of a bylaw to implement an amenity cost charge program; however, the City is working towards completing this project in mid-2026.
row of houses
On December 9, 2024, the City shared its 2024 Interim Housing Needs Report, which outlines current and future housing needs over the next 20 years, based on new Provincial rules and tools. To address the housing need, the City updated its Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw on December 8, 2025.

Provincial Resources

The Province has released Policy Manuals to provide further information on the implementation of the legislation. To learn more about the Province of BC’s housing initiatives, please visit the following websites: 

 
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