Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) Residential Zone

The City of Courtenay has updated its zoning to allow small-scale, multi-unit housing (SSMUH) on most properties previously zoned for single-residential homes or duplexes. This change follows provincial legislation (Bill 44), which requires local governments to permit up to four housing units per lot in residential areas.

What has changed?

On June 12, 2024, Council adopted Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3135, 2024, which:

  • Created a new residential small-scale, multi-unit housing zone (R-SSMUH) to replace 16 existing residential zones (R-1, R-1B, R-1C, R-1D, R-1E, R-1S, R-2, R-2A, R-2B, RR-1, RR-2, RR-2S, RR-3, RR-4, RR-5, and R-RU).
  • Rezoned 5,649 properties to the new R-SSMUH zone to allow up to four units per lot.
  • Assigned alternative zoning to 15 properties not suitable for SSMUH.
  • Updated definitions, parking rules and other zoning regulations to align with the new zoning.

The next step is to update the City's Development Permit Areas (DPAs). These guide form and character of future developments to align with the density permitted in the R-SSMUH zone. This requires updates to the Official Community Plan (OCP) and Zoning Bylaw. Learn more on the project page on Engage Comox Valley.

What is small-scale, multi-unit housing (SSMUH)?

SSMUH refers to a range of ground-oriented housing types. In Courtenay, this includes:

  • single-residential dwellings
  • duplexes
  • townhouses
  • secondary suite (within or attached to the main building)
  • accessory dwelling unit (detached from the main building)

For more information view the provincial small-scale, multi-unit housing page.

Why is this change happening?

Housing costs in B.C. have risen sharply, making single detached residential homes unaffordable for many. Most residential land in B.C. communities only allows single detached residential homes, limiting housing options and supply. The province introduced SSMUH legislation to:

  • increase housing supply
  • provide more housing choices
  • improve affordability over time

Key dates and upcoming provincial deadlines

  • June 30, 2024: The City updated its zoning to allow SSMUH as required by provincial law on June 12, 2024.
  • December 31, 2024: The City completed a housing needs report with 20-year projections on September 11, 2024.
  • December 31, 2025: The City must update the Official Community Plan (OCP) and update zoning bylaws to align with the housing needs report.

More information