The B.C. government has enacted legislation that impacts how Coquitlam plans for growth in areas around SkyTrain stations referred to as ‘Transit-Oriented Areas’.
Affected Areas in Coquitlam
The legislation applies to the following eight SkyTrain stations:
Key Changes in Transit-Oriented Areas
- Areas within 800 metres of SkyTrain stations are designated as Transit-Oriented Areas
- Minimum allowable building heights and densities are set by the Province
- Minimum residential parking requirements have been removed, except for those for individuals with disabilities
Planning for the Future of Growth
The City of Coquitlam is updating land use plans in Southwest Coquitlam to guide growth in areas just outside provincially designated Transit-Oriented Areas (TOAs) and along key corridors such as Austin and Como Lake Avenues. This work supports the second phase of the Transit-Oriented Areas Update and builds on provincial housing legislation introduced in 2023.
We’re looking at how to:
- Create smoother transitions in building heights and densities near SkyTrain stations
- Maintain housing choice, including townhouses
- Expand access to parks, shops and services
- Plan for future transportation improvements
About the Southwest Shoulders and Corridors
Southwest Shoulders are located at the edges of the Burquitlam and Lougheed SkyTrain Station Transit-Oriented Areas. Provincial regulations for Transit-Oriented Areas led to irregular boundaries and a reduction in areas previously planned for townhousing. Planning for the Shoulder areas is intended to help restore housing choice and create more gradual transitions between higher-density Transit-Oriented Areas and surrounding neighbourhoods.
Corridors include Austin and Como Lake Avenues. These areas were previously studied in the Southwest Housing Review and are now being integrated into a broader planning framework focused on complete communities and sustainable transportation.
The City is inviting residents, businesses, and interest holders to provide input on the proposed land use changes. Share your thoughts at an in-person or virtual information session, participate in a community roundtable conversation, complete our online survey or add a comment on our interactive map. See below for additional details. Visit LetsTalkCoquitlam.ca/TransitOrientedAreas
Learn More
To learn how the City is addressing the legislation, including timelines, frequently asked questions and community engagement opportunities, please visit LetsTalkCoquitlam.ca/TransitOrientedAreas.
Subscribe: Join the Coquitlam Current e-newsletter.
Connect: Follow us on social media for community engagement opportunities.
Background Documents
- Report to Council-in-Committee -May 26, 2025 - Transit-Oriented Areas Update: Stage 2 – Draft Land Use and Servicing Concepts for Community Engagement
- Report to Council-in-Committee - February 10, 2025 - Southwest Shoulders and Corridors - Transit-Oriented Areas Update - Stage 2: Round One Engagement Summary and Progress Report
- Report to Council-in-Committee - July 29, 2024 - Transit-Oriented Areas Update - Stage 2: Planned Transit-Oriented Areas,Shoulders and Key Southwest Corridors (PDF)
- Report to Council - June 17, 2024 - Transit-Oriented Areas Legislation (Bill 47) Implementation -Stage 1: Transit-Oriented Areas Designation and Parking Updates (PDF)
- Strategic Priorities Standing Committee -May 22, 2024 - Provincial Housing Mandates - Strategic Directions for the Transit-Oriented Areas Update and Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing Implementation (PDF)
- Report to Council-in-Committee - May 13, 2024 - Provincial Housing Mandates - Transit-Oriented Areas Update, Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing Implementation, and Southwest Housing Review (PDF)
- Report to Council-in-Committee - December 4, 2023 - Provincial Legislative Mandates on Housing – Implications (PDF)
