In response to the provincial housing legislation, Burnaby has recently updated its bylaws to facilitate increased housing density and streamline the construction process. These changes, effective this week (from July 1, 2024), aim to address the housing crisis by making it easier to build small-scale multi-unit homes, multiplex units, and multiplexes. Here’s what homeowners need to know if they are considering renovating or building their homes under the new rules.
Key Changes in the Bylaws
1. Increased Density Allowances
The new bylaws introduce the R1 Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing District (R1 SSMUH), which allows for more homes to be built on a single lot. Depending on the lot size and proximity to frequent transit services, homeowners can now build up to six units on a single lot. Specifically:
– Up to four units are allowed on most lots currently zoned for single- and two-family housing.
– In areas near frequent transit services, up to six units are permitted[1][2].
2. Parking Requirements
One significant change is the elimination of mandatory off-street parking for residential developments within 400 meters of frequent transit services. This means that parking provisions will be determined by market demand rather than city mandates. However, parking for disabled persons is still required[1][4].
3. Building Height and Setbacks
The new regulations also simplify building height and setback requirements, allowing for more flexibility in design. For instance, principal buildings can now be up to 12 meters tall (approximately four storeys), and accessory buildings can be up to one storey. These changes also remove the floor area ratio/ square footage maximums on residential lots.
Setbacks have been standardized to make the construction process more straightforward[2][3].
4. Public Hearings
Under the new legislation, public hearings for residential projects that conform to the Official Community Plan (OCP) are no longer required. This change aims to expedite the approval process for new developments. However, affected parties within 30 meters of a proposed development will still be notified, and information will be available on the City’s website[1][4].
5. Development Cost Charges and Amenity Cost Charges
To support the increased density, the city has introduced new financial tools, including Development Cost Charges (DCCs) and Amenity Cost Charges (ACCs). These charges will help fund necessary infrastructure upgrades and community amenities such as parks, community centers, and libraries[1][3].
Planning Your Renovation or New Build
1. Assess Your Lot
First, determine the size of your lot and its proximity to frequent transit services. This will dictate the number of units you can build. For lots less than 280 square meters, up to three units are allowed. For larger lots, up to four units are permitted, and up to six units if near frequent transit[4].
2. Design Flexibility
With the new height and setback regulations, you have more flexibility in designing your home. Consider incorporating energy-efficient features like solar panels, which are encouraged under the new bylaws[2].
3. Parking Considerations
If your property is within 400 meters of frequent transit, you are not required to provide off-street parking. However, consider the potential impact on street parking and discuss with your builder the best approach to meet your needs and those of future residents[1][4].
4. Stay Informed
Although public hearings are no longer required for most residential projects, staying informed about the latest updates to the OCP and other city plans is crucial. The City of Burnaby will continue to post information on its website and provide opportunities for community feedback through other means[1].
5. Budget for Additional Costs
Be prepared for additional costs associated with DCCs and ACCs. These charges are designed to fund the infrastructure and amenities needed to support increased density. Discuss these potential costs with your builder and factor them into your budget[1][3].
Conclusion
The new bylaws in Burnaby represent a significant shift towards increasing housing density and simplifying the construction process. By understanding these changes and planning accordingly, homeowners can take advantage of the new opportunities to build or renovate their homes. For more detailed information, visit the City of Burnaby’s official website and consult with local builders and planners to ensure your project complies with the new regulations.
You can also reach out to us here for a free consultation, or to find out more about the new regulations – we’ve got a great understanding of the rules, and we are happy to share them with you when it comes to your new project.
Citations:
[1] https://www.burnaby.ca/our-city/programs-and-policies/housing/provincial-housing-legislation-changes
[2] https://burnabyhouse.com/blog/burnaby-launches-new-zoning-plan-to-boost-housing-options
[3] https://pub-burnaby.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=75285
[4] https://www.burnabynow.com/local-news/burnaby-mayor-slams-new-provincial-housing-legislation-7780343
[5] https://burnabyhouse.com/blog/burnabys-bold-move-transformative-zoning-bylaw-amendments-to-enable-small-scale-multi-unit-housing