On June 25, 2024, Council adopted bylaws to implement Provincial requirements related to Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing and Transit-Oriented Areas.

To view the associated staff reports and bylaws, follow the links below:

Report No. PDS 091-2024, Transit-Oriented Area Implementation

Report No. PDS 092-2024, Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing Implementation

A planning process is underway to update the Official Community Plan. To learn more, visit https://letstalkabbotsford.ca/ocp.

Transit Oriented Areas

Transit Oriented Areas (TOAs) are places near major public transit stations where the Province has required a minimum density and building height for residential development. So far, the Province has identified the area around Bourquin Bus Exchange as a TOA.

What is allowed within a TOA?

The City must not deny an application to rezone a property within a TOA on the basis of height and density, if the proposed height and density does not exceed:

In addition to the prescribed height and density, the City cannot apply minimum parking requirements for residential uses within the TOA. This means that the amount of parking provided will be determined by the developer based on local conditions and market factors. Parking requirements for people with disabilities and for non-residential uses will continue to apply.

For more information on Transit Oriented Areas, here is a collection of Frequently Asked Questions.

Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing

Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing, aims to make it easier to build more housing on properties that were previously only allowed single detached dwellings and/or duplexes. The legislation requires the City to permit at least one accessory unit (e.g. secondary suite) in all single detached dwellings and up to four units on most single detached and duplex lots.

For more information on Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing, here is a collection of Frequently Asked Questions.

There are approximately 22,000 existing properties that will be impacted by the new rules, which must be adopted by June 30, 2024.

Finding the Right Balance

Implementing Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing requires making choices between space for housing, cars, and trees/yards. As a first step, the City is taking a balanced approach, where a maximum of four units is permitted per lot, subject to existing zoning regulations.