On September 16, the Province approved the City’s application to extend the deadline for the Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing Zoning Bylaw changes. The new deadline for Coquitlam is June 30, 2025. See our Information Bulletin for more information, and stay tuned to our Let's Talk page for further updates.
The B.C. Government recently passed new rules that require the City to enable small-scale multi-unit housing.
What is Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing?
The Province defines Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing as a range of housing options that are typically ground-oriented and generally compatible in scale and form with established single-family and duplex neighbourhoods. Examples include duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, secondary suites, carriage houses, garden cottages, and laneway homes.
To enable small-scale multi-unit housing, the new provincial rules require the City to allow for:
- Up to 3 units on lots 280 m2 (3,014 sq. ft.) or smaller
- Up to 4 units on lots larger than 280 m2 (3,014 sq. ft.) but less than 4,050 m2 (1 acre)
- Up to 1 single-detached dwelling and 1 secondary suite on lots 4,050 m2 (1 acre) and larger
The City currently has no bus stops that meet the provincial measures for frequent service, so provincial rules to allow for up to 6 units on lots close to frequent service bus stops do not apply.
These changes affect approximately 25,000 properties across Coquitlam.
For more information on the provincial legislation, please visit the Government of British Columbia webpage on Small-scale, multi-unit housing.
For more information on how we are addressing the new provincial rules, including timelines and how to engage with us, please visit LetsTalkCoquitlam.ca/ProvincialHousingChanges
Attend an Information Session
Coquitlam is hosting two public information sessions in October for residents to ask questions and learn about the City’s work to implement provincial housing legislation changes, aimed at increasing housing options across the province.
The information sessions are drop-in style with no set presentations or agenda. Participants will be able to view information materials, speak to City staff, and ask questions about the impacts on local neighbourhoods and future development.
- Thursday, October 3 from 5 – 8 p.m.
Location: Town Centre Park Community Centre, 1207 Pinetree Way - Wednesday, October 9 from 5 – 8 p.m.
Location: Coquitlam Bettie Allard YMCA, 555 Emerson Street
Both venues are accessible and located near SkyTrain and transit stops, with on-site parking available.
Provide Input to Help Guide Growth in Southwest Coquitlam
If you live, work, or spend time in Southwest Coquitlam, we want your input on future development in the area. The City of Coquitlam is particularly interested in hearing from residents and visitors who frequent the areas near SkyTrain stations or along the Como Lake and Austin Avenue corridors. Take our online survey at LetsTalkCoquitlam.ca/TransitOrientedAreas by Sunday, November 3, and have your say.
Background Documents
