Multi-unit housing is coming to Vancouver’s single-home neighbourhoods

Vancouver City Council has approved changes to zoning and development bylaws that will permit multi-unit dwellings in neighbourhoods that were previously single-home only areas. The changes allow for three to six units on residential lots, depending on size, at a maximum height of three storeys, and allow for seven or eight units only if they are purpose-built rentals. These changes are aimed at increasing density, providing affordable housing, and maintaining the character of neighbourhoods. There were over 500 letters submitted, 348 of which were in support of the changes. The new rules also included “density bonus provisions” to prevent land speculation.