About a year ago, weposted a video about Bill 44, or what most people know as the multiplexlegislation. If you haven’t heard of it, it’s a provincial law that basicallylets single-family and duplex zones have 3 to 4 units — and sometimes even upto 6, depending on the situation. Every city in BC had until June 30, 2024, toget it in place.
When it first launched, it made headlines andsparked a lot of interest. But after Bill 44 passed, momentum unexpectedlyslowed. By the time we covered updates last December, things had gone prettyquiet — likely due to financial realities.
Now, with more families choosingmultigenerational living, there’s renewed interest in multiplex projects.Cities are also stepping up with new grants and incentives, like Burnaby’sCommunity Benefit Bonus policy, Richmond’s $40,000 grants for affordablerentals, and Surrey’s $95 million Housing Accelerator Fund from CMHC.
As an architectural firm, it's ourresponsibility to stay on top of the latest changes. In this video, we’ll walkyou through the typical densities in common SSMUH zones across differentcities, go over parking requirements, maximum FSR, and highlight a few keythings you should know
Here’s a quick rundown of howmunicipalities across Metro Vancouver are implementing multiplex zoning:
Keep in mind, all projects are subject to a Development Cost Levy (DCL) unless you qualify for a waiver or exemption. Typically, only projects meeting certain affordability requirements— like 100% secured rental housing — are eligible. Most standard market multiplexes will still have to pay the DCL.
Another thing: if you’re building more than three units, the city might require a low-profile transformer, which can slow down permits
Parking requirements arealso reduced, and in FTNA areas, no parking is required at all. While that’s anice perk for some, it’s worth noting many people still rely on privatevehicles — and for rentals, having a parking spot can still be a key factor fortenants or family members.
Still in progress, but based on their February 2025 council meeting
Port Moody took a unique approach to the multiplex update
Coquitlam is updating its zoning bylaws, with a target release date of June 30, 2025. According to the draft from February 2025:
Initially, West Vancouver opposed the SSMUH legislation, but the province gave them an ultimatum to implement it.
Every city’s take on multiplex zoning is different, with its own benefits and challenges. If you're considering a multiplex build, the key is to align your site and goals with the most favorable local policies. Need help? Reach out to us at Jay Jung Architect Inc. —we’re here to help you navigate zoning, design, and approvals. Which city is doing multiplex zoning best? Drop your thoughts in the comments — and let us know what topics you want us to cover next!
