In 2023, the Province of B.C. introduced the Homes for People Action Plan, which aims to bridge the housing supply-demand gap in B.C. These changes intend to enable more homes and different types of housing in established single-family neighbourhoods and near transit hubs or frequent transit routes.
This plan has also resulted in major legislative changes that significantly impact how Coquitlam plans for, supports and funds growth and development in our community. This has caused a shift in the City’s business priorities, and is expected to negatively impact City funding for parks, recreation centres and affordable housing.
What Does this Mean for Coquitlam Residents?
In areas currently zoned for single-family housing, Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing of up to four units will now be allowed on most lots. Examples of small-scale multi-unit housing include carriage houses, duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, secondary suites and laneway homes. The legislation also establishes requirements for lots near bus stops with frequent service, but TransLink (the regional transit authority in Metro Vancouver) has confirmed no bus stops in Coquitlam meet the necessary criteria.
The provincial legislation also calls for increased density in Transit-Oriented Areas, which are the designated areas surrounding SkyTrain stations. The new rules require Coquitlam to allow for minimum densities and building heights from eight to 20 storeys in designated areas, depending on the distance from the station or exchange.
In addition to allowing increased density in established neighbourhoods and around transit hubs, the new provincial housing legislation introduces other changes, including:
- Eliminating minimum residential off-street parking requirements in areas with frequent transit service.
- Removing the City’s ability to hold public hearings for residential projects that conform to the City’s Official Community Plan.
- Enabling municipalities to levy a new amenity cost charge (ACC) to help fund facilities needed to support population growth, such as recreational and community centres, senior and youth centres, and child-care facilities.
Financial Impacts of New Provincial Legislation
The new provincial legislative changes will require significant updates to Coquitlam’s land use plans, zoning regulations and development finance system. While the City will adopt the new provincial funding mechanisms, such as the Amenity Cost Charge, these new programs are not expected to match the success of Coquitlam’s current Density Bonus Program. This program allowed developers to construct taller or denser buildings in exchange for providing community amenities and infrastructure, reflecting Coquitlam’s belief that growth should pay for growth. However, new provincial rules have put the future of this funding in doubt. As a result, there may be potential impacts on property taxes to fund the amenities and infrastructure our community needs.
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