City proposes new zoning categories amid provincial housing legislation
The City of Coquitlam is progressing with initiatives to implement Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing to align with provincial housing laws.
The City’s proposed zoning strategy, introduced to the Council last week, details plans to balance increased housing supply with local planning considerations.
Bill 44 requires municipalities to amend zoning bylaws to allow up to four units of housing on lots designated for single-family use.
Coquitlam’s response involves introducing new small-scale residential zones to ease these regulations, with key aspects including:
New Zoning Categories: Consolidating existing zones to support duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and multiplexes. Consultation and public hearings are prohibited under provincial mandates.
Updated Density Rules: Suggested regulations permit up to four units on most eligible lots.
Updated Parking Requirements: A tiered parking approach based on unit size to balance development feasibility and transportation needs, with lower rates for smaller units.
Infrastructure Considerations: The city is evaluating servicing capacity and infrastructure impacts to ensure sustainable growth and mitigate overloading risks.
The city will continue to educate and engage residents through public sessions and online resources, with zoning adjustments and final adoption expected later this year.
To learn more, visit LetsTalkCoquitlam.ca/SmallScale.
Coquitlam remains committed to housing affordability and supply within the confines of provincial legislation, emphasizing local expertise in community planning.
The city’s Housing Affordability Strategy is pivotal in delivering diverse housing options, aligning with provincial goals while respecting community uniqueness.
For more, visit coquitlam.ca/ProvincialHousingChanges.
Media contact: Renee De St. Croix, Director Urban Planning and Design, DevInfo@coquitlam.ca, 604-927-3430.
Coquitlam acknowledges its name and location on the traditional lands of the kʷikʷəƛ̓əm and other Coast Salish Peoples.