Squamish residents are invited to an in-person open house on April 30 from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. to learn more about the proposed updates to residential zoning in response to new provincial legislation. District staff will be available to answer questions before the Council considers the proposed bylaw changes. It will be held at the Garibaldi Room at Howe Sound Inn & Brewing.
The proposed changes aim to increase flexibility through zoning changes, including an increase in the number of housing units on a lot from three to four. Additionally, the changes will allow a more comprehensive array of housing types and reduce required parking.
In November 2023, the Province introduced Bill 44 (Small-Scale, MultiUnit Housing or ‘SSMUH’), which requires qualifying municipalities in the Province to amend Zoning Bylaws to increase the minimum density standards by allowing more small-scale, multi-unit housing options in land use zones that are otherwise restricted to single-family dwellings or duplexes.
The district is also creating a new R-1 zoning to boost housing in Squamish.
According to staff, the changes are recommended to align with provincial policy guidance. The updates are also part of the Squamish Housing Action Plan, which aims to address the housing affordability crisis in the area. Residents are encouraged to attend the open house to learn more about the proposed changes and provide feedback before the Council’s consideration.
The district also hosts a webinar for the Squamish Housing Action Plan update. This will take place on May 2 at 11 am. The joining link can be accessed here. The webinar number is 2774 541 5295, and the webinar password is bill44 (245544 from phones and video systems). To join by phone, call 604-449-3026.
