In a move that reminds municipal governments that they are creatures of the provincial government, the Government of British Columbia is making sweeping changes to enable more low-rise, multi-family residential developments.

It terms such building styles as “small-scale, multi-unit” buildings, such as townhomes, multiplexes, and laneway homes.

This is part of the provincial government’s sweeping changes overriding municipal government control over zoning and reforming various major review and approval processes that cities currently undertake. After first proposing such policy directions this past spring, the legislation was introduced today.

The small-scale, multi-unit buildings policy on single-family lots will apply to municipal jurisdictions with a population of over 5,000 residents, which effectively applies to the vast majority of the province.

For lots currently zoned for single-family or duplex use, lots with an area size of smaller than 280 sq metres (3,014 sq ft) can achieve up to three units, while lots greater than 280 sq metres can achieve up to four units.

For lots larger than 280 sq metres located in close proximity to public transit stops with frequent service, up to six units may be permitted.

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