The Metro Vancouver real estate market is undergoing a major transformation, and Burnaby is leading the charge. With the province’s push for more housing, Burnaby has quickly embraced Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) zoning, allowing for significantly increased density on residential lots. While some cities are slow to act, Burnaby has already received over 180 development applications, demonstrating strong momentum in this new era of housing development.

What is SSMU Zoning?

SSMU zoning is part of British Columbia’s province-wide effort to tackle the housing crisis by increasing density in established neighborhoods. Under the new regulations, most single-family lots in Burnaby can now accommodate four units, while some can have up to six. There are no floor space ratio (FSR) restrictions, meaning larger, family-friendly homes can now be built, often exceeding 2,000 square feet per unit. Other key benefits include:

  • Higher height limits for more flexible designs.
  • Reduced parking requirements, making better use of land.
  • A variety of housing options, including duplexes, multiplexes, and rowhouses.

These changes align with Premier David Eby and the NDP’s housing plan, which encourages density and provides funding to help cities with infrastructure and implementation costs.

Burnaby Sets the Example, Other Cities DELAY

While Burnaby has moved forward, other municipalities like Coquitlam, New Westminster, and the District of North Vancouver are either delaying their zoning updates or pushing back against them. The province has been clear that cities resisting these changes may face intervention, with Premier Eby emphasizing that local governments must act swiftly to address the housing crisis. With the NDP securing re-election, pressure may mount on these cities to follow Burnaby’s lead.

The Hidden Cost: Rising Development Charges

One of the biggest challenges facing developers is the increasing development charges imposed by cities. While these fees generate much-needed municipal revenue, they can also reduce incentives for builders to take on new projects, potentially slowing the creation of much-needed family housing. Striking the right balance between city revenue and housing supply will be critical in the coming years.

What This Means for Burnaby Real Estate

For buyers, sellers, and investors, these zoning changes could have a significant impact on property values. More density often means more opportunities to build multi-unit homes, increasing the potential value of certain properties. However, as cities introduce higher development fees, the cost of building may also rise, affecting affordability.

As Vancouver’s real estate market continues to evolve, Burnaby is leading the way in reshaping the housing landscape. Will other cities follow, or will provincial pressure force their hand? The coming months will be crucial in shaping Metro Vancouver’s housing future.

If you’re considering buying, selling, or investing in Burnaby or the surrounding areas, now is the time to stay informed. Contact us today to discuss what these zoning changes mean for you!