How to Get Your Burnaby Multiplex Permit Approved
A practical guide to Burnaby's SSMUH approval process — from pre-application consultation through permit issuance, with a compliance checklist to keep your project on track.
Burnaby's approval process
Confirm SSMUH eligibility
Verify your lot's zoning allows SSMUH development. Check lot size minimums, frontage requirements, and transit proximity (which affects maximum unit count). Burnaby's online zoning map is a good starting point.
Pre-application consultation
Book a pre-application meeting with Burnaby planning staff. Bring your preliminary site plan and massing study. Staff will confirm zoning compliance, flag constraints, and outline submission requirements. This step costs $500-$1,000 and saves significant time downstream.
Prepare complete drawings and reports
Develop full architectural, structural, and energy documentation. Include a tree survey, geotechnical report (if required), and rainwater management plan. Use the SSMUH compliance checklist below to verify completeness.
Submit Building Permit application
Submit your complete package to Burnaby's building department. Burnaby's integrated review process (no separate DP) means your application enters a single review queue.
Address review comments and obtain permit
Respond to any review comments thoroughly. Once all conditions are met, your permit is issued and construction can begin. Total timeline: 3-5 months for complete applications.
SSMUH compliance checklist
- Lot zoning confirmed as SSMUH-eligible
- Minimum lot size requirement met
- Setbacks comply with Burnaby zoning bylaw
- Building height within allowed maximum
- Parking requirements addressed (minimum 1 space per unit)
- Tree preservation plan completed
- BC Energy Step Code compliance documented
- Ground-floor accessibility features included
- Rainwater management plan meets Burnaby standards
- Site servicing (water, sewer) confirmed adequate
FAQs
What is Burnaby's SSMUH compliance checklist?
Key items include lot zoning confirmation, minimum lot size, setback compliance, height restrictions, parking, tree preservation, Energy Step Code compliance, and ground-floor accessibility.
Does Burnaby offer pre-application consultations?
Yes. Pre-application meetings cost $500-$1,000 and allow planning staff to review your preliminary plans, flag issues, and confirm submission requirements before you invest in full drawings.
How many units can I build?
Most Burnaby lots can accommodate 3-4 units under SSMUH. Lots near frequent transit can build up to 6 units depending on lot size and frontage.
Check your Burnaby property's eligibility
Enter your Burnaby address to see SSMUH eligibility, maximum unit count, and estimated project costs.