Burnaby Multiplex Cost Guide: Optimize Your SSMUH Budget
A detailed budget breakdown for Burnaby multiplex projects, with SSMUH-specific fee structures and strategies to reduce your total project cost.
SSMUH-specific fees and charges
Burnaby's SSMUH framework eliminated rezoning fees since all former R-district lots are now pre-zoned for multiplex. This removes a significant cost and time barrier compared to traditional rezoning. Here is what you will pay:
- Development application: $5,000-$15,000 -- streamlined review under SSMUH guidelines
- Building permit: $15,000-$30,000 -- based on construction value
- Development Cost Charges (DCCs): $120,000-$170,000 -- roads, drainage, sewerage, water, parkland
- Utility connections: $10,000-$20,000 -- sewer, water, hydro hookups
- No rezoning fees: $0 -- a key SSMUH advantage over pre-2024 development
Cost optimization strategies
Maximize buildable area
Burnaby has no FSR cap -- your buildable volume is defined by height, setbacks, and lot coverage. Work with your architect to maximize floor area, which spreads fixed costs across more sellable square footage.
Eliminate parking costs
Transit-adjacent lots (within 400m of frequent transit) require zero parking. This saves $30,000-$60,000 in construction costs and frees up buildable land area.
Repeatable floor plans
Using similar unit layouts across your project reduces architectural fees, simplifies construction, and allows bulk material purchasing at better rates.
Bundle professional services
Engage architects and engineers familiar with Burnaby SSMUH who have standardized their processes. Experienced SSMUH teams can save $15,000-$25,000 in soft costs.
Budget by unit count
3-Unit Triplex
$3.2-3.8M
~$1.07-1.27M per unit
4-Unit Fourplex
$4.5-5.2M
~$1.13-1.30M per unit
6-Unit (Transit)
$5.5-6.5M
~$0.92-1.08M per unit
FAQs
What SSMUH-specific fees does Burnaby charge?
Development application ($5-15K), building permit ($15-30K), DCCs ($120-170K), and utilities ($10-20K). No rezoning fees required.
How can I reduce Burnaby multiplex costs?
Maximize buildable area (no FSR cap), choose transit lots for zero parking, use repeatable plans, and hire SSMUH-experienced teams.
What is the budget difference between 3-unit and 6-unit?
A 3-unit costs $3.2-3.8M ($1.07-1.27M/unit) while a 6-unit costs $5.5-6.5M ($0.92-1.08M/unit) -- better per-unit economics at scale.