In a groundbreaking move that is set to reshape the housing landscape in British Columbia, new provincial housing legislation is ushering in a transformative era for small-scale multi-unit and multiplex developments. As cities like Burnaby adapt to these changes, the days of rigid single-family zoning appear to be coming to an end.
The Shift: From Single-Family Zoning to Multiplex Living
According to a recent Burnaby Now article, Burnaby City Council has approved bylaws that will permit up to six dwelling units on lots that were previously limited to single-family homes or duplexes. This change—set to take effect on July 1, 2024—aligns with provincial mandates designed to increase housing supply and affordability across the region.
Key Highlights:
- New Zoning for More Homes: The updated bylaws consolidate multiple residential districts into the new “Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing” (SSMUH) district. This means that nearly all residential lots in Burnaby can now be developed for three to six units depending on lot size and proximity to frequent transit.
- Simplified Approval Process: With the new regulations, there will be no need for spot rezoning, as the new rules are built directly into the updated zoning bylaw. This streamlines development approvals, reducing delays and administrative burdens for home builders.
- Enhanced Housing Options: The legislation not only supports the construction of multiplexes but also encourages alternative ownership models, including fee-simple rowhomes—offering diverse solutions for families, seniors, and first-time buyers.
For a detailed technical briefing on the new housing regulations, please see the Housing Technical Briefing Presentation.
Provincial Legislation: The Backbone of Change
The province’s initiative—detailed in the government release—is a critical component of the broader Homes for People action plan. This plan aims to accelerate the delivery of affordable housing by modernizing outdated zoning rules and removing unnecessary barriers to development. By updating regulations, municipalities can simplify land use rules and create a more predictable environment for home builders and buyers alike.
For further insights on the Homes for People action plan, visit the following resources:
The Zoning Bylaw Rewrite in Burnaby
Burnaby is also undertaking a comprehensive update of its Zoning Bylaw to modernize and simplify existing regulations. The Zoning Bylaw Rewrite Project aims to replace the outdated bylaw from 1965, ensuring that new developments align with current provincial mandates and community needs. This initiative will make it easier for builders to deliver a wide range of housing types—from townhomes and triplexes to full-scale multiplex projects.
Learn more about the new zoning framework and its impact on housing in Burnaby by visiting the Burnaby Zoning Bylaw Rewrite website.
Why This Matters for B.C. Homebuyers and Builders
- Increased Housing Supply: With the new legislation, there is a clear path to significantly increasing the number of affordable, small-scale multi-unit homes. Preliminary estimates suggest that B.C. could see over 130,000 new housing units over the next 10 years.
- Simplified Development: By eliminating cumbersome zoning rules and outdated approval processes, builders can bring projects to market faster, meeting the urgent demand for housing.
- Diverse Ownership Options: Whether you’re a young family, a senior looking to downsize, or a first-time homebuyer, the new regulations offer multiple paths to homeownership—providing opportunities for both strata and fee-simple ownership models.
- Community Transformation: These changes are designed to foster vibrant, inclusive neighborhoods where residents not only have affordable homes but also enjoy a high quality of life with ample community amenities.
For more on local government housing initiatives, check out the BC Government Housing Initiatives page. Additional information about B.C. legislation can be found on the Working For You website.
Conclusion
This new housing legislation marks the beginning of a transformative period for British Columbia. By enabling the development of small-scale multi-unit and multiplex housing, the province is taking concrete steps toward alleviating the housing crisis and making quality homeownership accessible to more Canadians. Plex Living is excited to support this revolution by connecting buyers and builders in innovative, community-focused ways.
Stay tuned to Plex Living as we continue to follow these developments and work to bring forward the next generation of affordable, vibrant housing solutions.
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