- Multiplex Development
- The process of converting a single-family residential property into a multiple-dwelling building containing 3-6 units under Vancouver's current zoning framework. Also known as "missing middle" housing.
- Bill 44 (Housing Statutes Amendment Act)
- British Columbia legislation passed in 2023 that mandates municipalities allow small-scale multi-unit development on single-family lots. Requires cities to permit at least 3 units on lots under 280 m², and up to 6 units on larger lots.
- Co-development Model
- A partnership structure where homeowners collaborate with experienced developers and builders to transform their property while retaining ownership rights, equity participation, or completed units.
- R1-1 Zoning (Vancouver)
- Vancouver's primary single-family residential zoning district, now allowing multiple dwelling units under the new housing legislation. Permits up to 6 units depending on lot size and configuration.
- R1 SSMUH District (Burnaby)
- Burnaby's revolutionary Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing District that consolidated 12 former R-Districts into one comprehensive zone. Allows 3-6 units with no maximum floor area limits and stratification rights.
- RT-7, RT-9 Zoning
- Residential transition zones in Vancouver that allow multiple housing types including multiplexes, with specific design guidelines and density requirements.
- Frequent Transit Network Area (FTNA)
- Burnaby designation for lots within 400m of frequent bus service (every 15 minutes). FTNA lots qualify for up to 6 units regardless of size, providing significant density bonuses.
- Development Permit (DP)
- Required approval from Vancouver for multiplex projects, focusing on form, character, and site planning. Must be obtained before Building Permit application.
- Building Permit (BP)
- City approval required for construction, ensuring compliance with Vancouver Building By-law safety, structural, and technical requirements.
- Floor Space Ratio (FSR)
- The ratio of total floor area to lot area, controlling building density. Vancouver allows FSR of 0.75-1.2 for multiplexes depending on zone and lot characteristics.
- Missing Middle Housing
- Housing types between single-family homes and high-rise apartments, including duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and small apartment buildings. Addresses the gap in housing options.
- Laneway House
- Secondary dwelling unit built in the rear yard, typically accessed from a lane. Can be combined with multiplex development on eligible lots.
- Secondary Suite
- Self-contained residential unit within a single-family home or individual multiplex unit, typically including bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen facilities.
- Net Zero Construction
- Building design achieving net-zero energy consumption. Vancouver offers 19% bonus density for projects meeting net-zero energy requirements.
- Site Coverage
- Percentage of lot area covered by buildings. Vancouver limits site coverage to ensure adequate open space and livability.
- Setback Requirements
- Minimum distances buildings must be positioned from property lines. Varies by zone: typically 6m front, 1.2m side, 7.5m rear for multiplexes.
- Development Cost Charges (DCCs)
- Municipal fees charged to help fund infrastructure and community amenities required to support new development. Calculated per unit for multiplex projects.
- Stratification
- Legal process allowing individual ownership of units within a multiplex development. Burnaby's R1 SSMUH allows stratification of primary dwelling units, creating individual strata titles.
- Fee Simple Rowhousing
- Burnaby innovation allowing individual ownership of rowhouse units without stratification. Provides alternative ownership structure with simplified legal framework.
- Cottage Court
- Burnaby housing form featuring multiple detached single-family dwellings on one lot, providing village-like atmosphere while maintaining individual unit identity.