At the end of 2023, the B.C. Government passed several pieces of legislation that apply across the province and impact the City of Coquitlam’s planning framework and development finance system.
Among these legislative changes is Bill 44, which focuses on minimum residential densities, new zoning processes and municipal planning requirements. Urban communities, including Coquitlam, are required to allow for Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) on lots currently zoned for single-family and duplex uses with no need for a rezoning application. Specifically, the City must:
- Allow for a minimum 3 units on lots with an area less than 280m2 (3,014 sq.ft.).
- Allow for a minimum 4 units on lots with an area between 280m2 and 4,050 m2 (1 acre).
- Where the lot is located within 400m of bus stops with frequent service (15 minutes or less), allow for a minimum 6 units on lots with an area between 280 m2 and 4,050 m2, and eliminate minimum parking requirements.
These changes affect approximately 25,000 properties across Coquitlam.
What is Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing?
The province defines SSMUH (PDF) as a range of housing options that are typically ground-oriented and generally compatible in scale and form with established single-family and duplex neighbourhoods.
Examples of SSMUH include, but are not limited to:
- Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) including secondary suites, carriage houses or garden cottages
- Duplexes, triplexes and fourplexes
Changes to the Zoning Bylaw to implement these requirements must be in place by June 30, 2024 unless the Province grants an extension.
For further information on the provincial mandates, see our provincial housing changes webpage.
Background Documents
