Vancouver vows to speed up multiplex permits by 50%
Officials plan to combine development permit processes one application.
Key Takeaways:
- Vancouver will cut permitting times for multiplex housing applications by 50% starting in 2025, aiming to accelerate the development of “missing middle” housing.
- The new process combines the development and building permit stages, reducing redundancies and streamlining the approval process for smaller multiplexes.
- The City plans to expand this pathway to include more multiplex types, enhancing housing diversity in Vancouver.
The Whole Story:
Effective early 2025, the City of Vancouver says it will cut permitting times for certain multiplex applications by approximately 50% through a streamlined Development Building Permit application pathway.
This initiative is a major milestone for the City’s Permitting Improvement Program. The goal is to closer to achieve the City Council-adopted 3-3-3-1 Permit Approval Framework and enable faster approval of much-needed housing.
“As Vancouver grows and evolves, it’s crucial that our housing options meet the diverse needs of our community,” said Mayor Ken Sim. “The streamlined development building permit for multiplexes is a key example of how we’re cutting red tape and prioritizing the approval of more ‘missing middle’ housing, which bridges the gap between single-detached homes and large apartment buildings.”
Currently, multiplex projects are required to apply for a separate development permit followed by a building permit. The development building permit combines these two processes into one application. This eliminates redundancies and significantly reduces both staff review time and applicant revision requirements. Multiplex applications with up to four dwellings on a single site and no more than two units per building will qualify.
“This change will streamline the journey from planning to construction for multiplex developers,” says Corrie Okell, General Manager, Development, Buildings & Licensing. “It underscores our commitment to transparency, predictability, accuracy, consistency, and timeliness in the permitting process.”
Looking ahead, the City plans to expand the development building permit pathway to encompass more types of multiplex developments, further supporting the growth and diversity of Vancouver’s housing market.
