The City introduced an Omnibus Zoning Bylaw amendment at the April 25th meeting of Council, which includes the introduction of secondary suites in duplexes and lock-offs in multifamily housing buildings, as well as other changes to the City's Zoning Bylaw. The proposed amendment to the Zoning Bylaw has been approved to proceed to Public Hearing. Before the Hearing, the City is providing this additional opportunity through Rupert Talks for the community to ask questions and staff to provide information to assist in public understanding of the proposed changes.
Major changes proposed:
- Permitting of Secondary Suites in two-family homes (duplexes) and lock-off suites in multi-family homes (3+ principle units)
- Addition of Animal Hospital or Clinic in any zone where retail is permitted.
- Clarifying Gross Floor Area definition and adding a definition of Building Footprint.
- Allowing temporary use of Shipping Containers for up to 60 days.
- Allowing housing to be built from modular units on permanent foundations.
Why are these changes being made?
The Zoning Bylaw is a living document that The City needs to maintain as a clear and effective land-use tool. This omnibus bylaw is a response to Council's desire to allow for growth in the housing market and clarify and address issues and questions that have arisen from the public. For instance, we know the community is currently short on veterinary services, so it just makes sense to make that use (Animal Hospital or Clinic) is clearly permitted in all commercial zones so that no potential vet clinic is discouraged from opening.
