What SSMUH changes did Burnaby make in 2026-2027?

Burnaby refined its SSMUH bylaws in 2026 to clarify unit allowances near transit, reduce parking minimums for transit-adjacent lots, and introduce pre-approved design guidelines that expedite review. The city also updated DCC rates and expanded its online submission system.

Did Burnaby reduce parking requirements for multiplexes?

Yes. For SSMUH projects within 400m of frequent transit, Burnaby reduced parking minimums from 1.0 to 0.5 spaces per unit in 2026. This change reduces construction costs and allows more flexible site design.

Are Burnaby permit fees higher in 2026-2027?

Burnaby adjusted DCC rates by approximately 4-6% in 2026 to reflect updated infrastructure costs. Building Permit fees saw a modest 2-3% increase. However, reduced parking requirements offset some costs for transit-adjacent projects.

Burnaby Multiplex Permits: 2026-2027 SSMUH Updates

What has changed in Burnaby's SSMUH multiplex permit process for 2026-2027 — including revised unit allowances, reduced parking, fee adjustments, and new pre-approved design guidelines.

Key SSMUH changes for 2026-2027

Reduced parking minimums near transit

SSMUH projects within 400m of frequent transit now require only 0.5 parking spaces per unit, down from 1.0. This reduces construction costs by $30,000-$60,000 per project and allows more efficient site layouts with additional green space or larger units.

Pre-approved design guidelines

Burnaby introduced pre-approved design guidelines for common multiplex configurations (3-unit and 4-unit). Projects following these guidelines receive expedited review, typically reducing processing time by 4-6 weeks.

Clarified transit proximity bonus

Burnaby clarified that lots within 400m of a SkyTrain station or frequent bus route can build up to 6 units (previously ambiguous for some areas). The measurement is now from the lot boundary to the transit stop, not the building.

Online submission expansion

Burnaby expanded its digital permit portal to accept all SSMUH applications online, with real-time status tracking and digital plan review comments.

Updated fee schedule

Burnaby adjusted fees in 2026 to reflect updated infrastructure costs. Development Cost Charges increased 4-6%, while Building Permit fees saw a modest 2-3% increase. However, reduced parking requirements for transit-adjacent projects can offset these increases by lowering construction costs.

2025 Fees

DCC: $14-$26/sq ft
BP fees: $11,000-$23,000
Parking: 1.0 space/unit (all locations)

2026-2027 Fees

DCC: $15-$28/sq ft
BP fees: $12,000-$25,000
Parking: 0.5 space/unit (near transit)

FAQs

What SSMUH changes did Burnaby make?

Key changes include reduced parking near transit, pre-approved design guidelines for faster review, clarified transit proximity bonus for 6-unit projects, and expanded online submissions.

Did parking requirements change?

Yes. Projects within 400m of frequent transit now require only 0.5 spaces per unit, saving $30,000-$60,000 in construction costs per project.

Are fees higher?

DCCs increased 4-6% and BP fees increased 2-3%. Reduced parking requirements partially offset these increases for transit-adjacent projects.

Check your Burnaby property with 2027 requirements

Enter your Burnaby address for an up-to-date eligibility check using current SSMUH requirements and fee schedules.