The most effective way municipalities can improve housing affordability and access is by increasing housing supply through predictable rules, faster approvals, and lower per-unit costs.
The following three actions focus on enabling more homes across the community—particularly small- and mid-scale housing—by reducing regulatory delays and cost drivers while maintaining clear design and servicing standards.
1. Legalize More Housing By Right
Why it works
Predictability + scale reduces costs and accelerates starts.
Actions
Implement as-of-right zoning for:
- 4-6 units on all serviced residential lots (aligns with BC SSMUH legislation)
- 6-12 units near town centres and frequent transit
Eliminate site-specific rezonings for compliant projects
Impact
- Cuts approvals from years → months
- Encourages “missing middle” builders (not just large developers)
2. Fast-Track Rentals and Non-Market Housing
Why it works
Speed and cost certainty make rental and non-market projects viable.
Actions
Create a Rental Express Lane:
- Guaranteed decision in 90–120 days
- Pre-approved building forms (wood-frame, 4–6 storey)
Waive or defer:
- Development Cost Charges (DCCs)
- Parking minimums for rentals
Impact
- Lowers per-unit costs by 10–20%
- Attracts institutional and non-profit builders
3. Reduce Parking Requirements
Why it works
Parking reform cuts costs and unlocks more living space.
Actions
Remove minimum parking near:
- Transit corridors
- Town centres
- Affordable / rental projects
- Allow shared & unbundled parking
Impact
- Potentially saves $50k–$80k per unit
- Enables more units
