How to Build a Multiplex in Burnaby

Your 2026 guide to Burnaby's R1 Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) district: eligibility, permits, costs, financing, and timelines for 3-6 unit developments.

Quick overview

All former R District lots have been rezoned to R1 Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH), with unit counts set by lot size and transit proximity
No maximum floor area limits -- buildable volume defined by height, setbacks, and lot coverage
Plan approximately 18 months end-to-end, with 5-8 months in permitting
Full lot-size thresholds, unit counts, and parking rules: the complete Burnaby R1 SSMUH zoning guide →

What working with VanPlex looks like

Verify R1 SSMUH eligibility: Check lot size, transit proximity, and determine unit capacity (3-6 units)
Concept and feasibility: Engage architect to test layouts, massing, setbacks, and site coverage
Development application: Submit site plan, elevations, landscape plan, arborist report to City of Burnaby
Financing strategy: Secure construction financing and decide on unit retention vs sales approach
Building Permit: Submit detailed technical drawings for structural, energy, and building code compliance
Construction: Foundation work, framing, MEP rough-ins, inspections, finishing, and occupancy
Completion and stratification: Finalize occupancy, stratify units where needed, proceed with sales or rentals

Typical timeline

Approximately 18 months total

Planning & Design: 2-3 months
Development Application: 3-5 months
Building Permit: 2-3 months
Construction: 9-11 months
Completion & Sales: 1-2 months

Timelines depend on application completeness and city workload. Burnaby's streamlined SSMUH process can be faster than Vancouver's DP/BP process.

For current construction cost ranges and a worked ROE example, see the complete Burnaby guide.

FAQs

Can I stratify and sell individual units?

Yes. Primary dwelling units can be stratified for individual ownership, allowing you to sell units separately. Secondary suites must remain tied to the principal title.

How does Burnaby compare to Vancouver for multiplex development?

Burnaby offers more flexible floor area regulations (no FSR caps), competitive land prices, and similar or better transit access in many areas. Development timelines can be slightly faster with streamlined SSMUH approvals.

What if my lot doesn't have lane access?

All new housing forms are now allowed on lots without lanes under Burnaby's R1 SSMUH regulations. Your architect can design solutions for access, parking, and services from the front street.

How many units can I build, and what parking do I need?

Unit counts depend on lot size and transit proximity, and parking requirements depend on the same Frequent Transit Network Area boundary. See the complete Burnaby R1 SSMUH zoning guide for lot-size thresholds, unit counts, and parking rules.

Ready to Explore Your Burnaby Property?

Use VanPlex to analyze your Burnaby property's multiplex potential. Get instant ROI calculations, unit capacity analysis, and market comparables specific to Burnaby neighborhoods.

View Complete Burnaby Multiplex Regulations →

Compare Vancouver vs Burnaby

Considering both cities? Burnaby's R1 SSMUH regulations offer unique advantages including no floor area caps and competitive land prices, while Vancouver offers established market liquidity.

Read Vancouver Guide