Residents of Squamish are invited to attend an open house on October 9 to learn about proposed amendments to the Zoning Bylaw regarding the allowed number of units, lot coverage and setbacks in flood hazard areas.
The Open House will be held on October 9 at the Brackendale Art Gallery from 4 pm to 6 pm.
The amendments, prompted by Bill 44 and the Squamish Housing Action Plan, focus on regulations surrounding the number of housing units, lot coverage, and setbacks in these vulnerable areas. The proposed changes will include the introduction of new residential zoning categories—R-2, R-3, R-4, and R-5—allowing for a broader range of housing types and more flexible siting options.
The NDP government brought in Bill 44 in 2023 to increase housing supply. The bill allows three to four units of small-scale, multi-unit housing on land zoned for single-family or duplex residential. It allows for secondary suites, accessory dwelling units on single-family zoned land, and more units near bus stops.
Legislation now also requires a public hearing not to be held for rezoning more than 50% residential applications consistent with the Official Community Plan.
Attendees will have the opportunity to review a general overview of the bylaw amendments, discuss the changes with District staff, ask questions and provide feedback. Refreshments will be provided, and event information will also be available online at letstalksquamish.ca/housing. The drop-in open house event is open to all interested community members looking to understand the implications of these zoning changes.
