BC’s New Housing Legislation: More Units, More Options, More Value

What BC’s New Housing Rules Mean for You (And Why It’s Good News)

Chances are you’ve heard of BC’s new housing rules that make it easier for homeowners to add more living space to their properties — like basement suites, laneway homes, or small multi-unit buildings. It’s part of a push for “gentle density,” which means adding more homes in existing neighbourhoods to help tackle the province’s housing shortage — especially in high-demand regions like the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley, and Sea-to-Sky Corridor.

What’s Happening?

BC Zoning Changes & Infill Housing Opportunities

The Province of BC has passed legislation that requires municipalities to allow more homes on lots previously zoned for just one house. This shift opens the door for infill housing — which the Province is calling “Small-Scale-Multi-Unit-Housing,” or “SSMUH” for short — added to existing residential properties.

That means more flexibility for how you use your land — and more options for your family, whether you live in Langley, Abbotsford, Squamish, or anywhere in between.

Why Did This Happen?

Addressing Housing Affordability in BC

BC’s housing market has become increasingly difficult to access. Many communities are growing, but the supply of homes hasn’t kept up — especially in fast-growing cities like Surrey, Maple Ridge, and throughout the Fraser Valley.

These new rules are designed to:

• Create more affordable housing options
• Allow for smarter use of existing land and infrastructure
• Help young families and first-time buyers stay in the communities they love

What It Means for You as a Homeowner in Langley, Richmond, and Beyond

This new legislation opens up a range of possibilities for homeowners in the Lower Mainland, Sea-to-Sky, and Fraser Valley. Here’s how you can take advantage:

More options for your family
Add a suite or small unit for aging parents, adult kids, or extended family.

Earn rental income
Generate passive income by adding a garden suite, basement suite, or another rental unit.

Plan for the future
Stay in the neighborhood you love while creating a downsizing option right on your lot.

Boost your property value
Homes with secondary units are often more valuable and attractive to future buyers.

Help your kids stay in town
Support the next generation by offering affordable living in the community they grew up in.

Work with an expert home builder
We specialize in secondary suite construction, infill housing, and SSMUH development across the Fraser Valley.

A Closer Look: What You Can (and Can’t) Do Under BC’s New Housing Rules

✅ What You Can Do

Can I build more than one home on my single-family lot?
Yes — most single-family lots in urban areas across Langley, Abbotsford, and the Fraser Valley now allow more than one unit:

• 3 units on lots 280m² or larger

• 4 units on larger lots, corner lots, or properties with laneway access and full municipal servicing

What types of housing are allowed under the new rules?
You can now add:

• Basement suites, garden suites, laneway homes

• Small Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) like duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes

Can I use this for multi-generational living?
Absolutely. These changes are great for multi-generational housing, allowing families to live on one property while still having their own space.

Can I build rental units?
Yes — both long-term rentals and, in some municipalities, short-term rentals are allowed. Be sure to check your local bylaws for short-term use.

Is the permitting process easier now?
In many areas, yes. The process is more streamlined, especially in places that have pre-zoned for gentle density.

Do I still need to provide parking?
In some areas — especially those close to transit or town centers — municipalities are reducing or removing parking minimums to make building easier. Check your local parking requirements.

Can I build affordable housing on my lot?
Yes — the new rules support the development of affordable and diverse housing types, making it easier to stay in your community while increasing your property’s value and function.

🚫 What You Can’t Do

Can I tear down and rebuild without permits?
No. Permits and inspections are still required for any demolition or new construction.

What if my lot doesn’t meet size or servicing requirements?
You may not qualify for the full number of units. Lots without proper sewer, water, or road access can’t take full advantage of the new density allowances.

Can I build in rural or protected areas?
No — these changes mainly apply to urban and suburban areas. Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) properties or environmentally sensitive zones are generally excluded.

Do local zoning bylaws still matter?
Yes — municipalities still regulate key details like:

• Height limits

• Setbacks

• Floor Space Ratios (FSR)

• Design guidelines
  These rules affect how many units you can build and what they can look like.

Important: Each municipality — like Langley, Abbotsford, Maple Ridge, and others — is implementing the rules slightly differently. That can make things feel overwhelming, but the good news is: We know the local bylaws so you don’t have to. Revere Homes is already working under these new systems across the region, and we can help you navigate what’s possible in your specific area — quickly and clearly.

Yes, It’s a Big Shift — But We’ve Got You

This is one of the most significant  housing policy shifts BC has seen in decades — and yes, it’s been confusing, even for city planners and municipal staff.

That’s where Revere Homes comes in.

We’ve been directly involved from the start — working with local governments across Langley, Abbotsford, and the Sea-to-Sky Corridor to help shape and implement these zoning updates. We don’t just understand the new policies — we helped create them.

When you work with Revere, you’re getting more than just a builder. You’re getting a knowledgeable partner who can guide you through all of BC’s new housing rules, show you what’s possible on your property, and help turn this opportunity into real value for your family.

Let’s Talk About What’s Possible

Curious what these changes mean for your lot in the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley, or Sea-to-Sky?
We’re here to help you explore your options, navigate the process, and build something that works for your future.

Contact Revere Homes today to get started.