Reminder:Zoning Is Now Coming Into Effect and Under Implementation 

BC’s New Zoning Rules: What They Mean for Your Lot, Investment, or Home

In one of the boldest moves to address the housing crisis, the Province of British Columbia has enacted sweeping zoning reforms—mandating that cities across BC allow 3–6 housing units on single-family lots. It’s a shift designed to unlock land, reduce red tape, and enable more gentle density. But what does this mean for homeowners, investors, and developers? Let’s unpack it.What Changed in 2024–2025?In December 2023, BC passed legislation requiring all municipalities with populations over 5,000 to permit:

• 3–4 units on standard urban lots, regardless of previous zoning
• Up to 6 units on lots near frequent transit, like SkyTrain routes or major bus corridors

Municipalities must update zoning bylaws by mid-2025. These changes align with trends in Oregon, California, and New Zealand—aimed at reducing “exclusionary zoning” and improving affordability.Key Details You Should Know:

1. Lot Size Still Matters
   Not every property can host 6 units. Cities can require minimum lot widths or areas to determine whether triplexes or multiplexes are feasible.
2. Heritage & Environmental Protections Remain
   These new zoning rules don’t override protections for heritage homes or properties within environmentally sensitive zones.
3. Permit Process May Be Streamlined
   Local governments are encouraged (but not always ready) to implement faster approval systems for projects that align with the new density guidelines.
4. Parking Minimums May Be Removed
   Especially near transit corridors, municipalities are expected to remove or reduce mandatory parking requirements.

Impact for HomeownersHomeowners with standard detached lots may be able to:

• Add a legal secondary suite AND a garden suite
• Convert a single-family home into a triplex or fourplex
• Build 2–3 stratified units to sell independently (if local rules allow)

This unlocks new financial opportunities:

• Rental income: Mortgage helper potential is now stronger than ever.
• Multigenerational housing: Keep aging parents or adult kids close by.
• Equity growth: Properties with higher density potential will appreciate faster.

Investor & Developer InsightsIf you’re a small-scale builder or investor, this is your moment.📍 Top Opportunity Zones in Metro Vancouver:

• East Vancouver: Especially near the Expo line
• North Vancouver City: Lonsale and Moodyville. 
• West Coquitlam: Transit-adjacent lots
• Langley & Maple Ridge: Larger lots, lower cost per buildable square foot

💡 What to Look For:

• 33’ × 122’ lots that allow 3–4 units
• 50’+ lots near bus or SkyTrain routes = 6-unit potential
• Properties with laneway or corner access = easier design approval

Builder Challenges to Watch

• Construction Cost Inflation: Framing, concrete, and labour costs are still high. Design smart.
• Financing Multiplex Builds: Not all lenders are comfortable with non-standard home types.
• Public Resistance: Some neighbourhoods are fighting densification—even if they legally can’t stop it.

North Vancouver SpotlightNorth Vancouver District and City are taking proactive steps:

• New Small Lot Infill Program already in place
• Multiplex pilot projects in Moodyville 
• Strong local demand for multigenerational homes + rental income

Expect areas near parks, schools, and transit to see a burst in permit applications and design build firms offering pre-approved plans.What to Do Next

1. Find Out Your Lot’s Potential
   A zoning consultant or Realtor familiar with the new guidelines can quickly assess your eligibility.
2. Crunch the Numbers
   Can you add a unit, or two? Is stratifying worth it? What rental income could you generate?
3. Talk to a Mortgage Broker
   Financing a conversion or new build may require equity-based lending or interest-only construction loans.
4. Plan Your Strategy
   You can:
   • Sell your lot to a builder
   • Build to sell
   • Build to rent (and refinance post-build)
   • Live in one, rent the rest

ConclusionThis isn’t just a policy change—it’s a once-in-a-generation reset of land use. If you’re a homeowner, investor, or aspiring builder, don’t wait for the dust to settle. BC’s zoning overhaul is an open door—but only for those prepared to walk through it.“Want to know your lot’s true potential? Get a free zoning report + highest-and-best-use analysis now.”
Call me...
Kevin LynchRemax Crest Realty604-307-9448