Squamish Council is scheduled to consider adopting new development and amenity charges for co-living housing on October 6.
The proposed development cost charge is $11,603 per private sleeping unit, while the amenity cost charge is $5,090, for a combined total of $16,693. The bylaws define co-living as long-term residential accommodation with private sleeping units and access to shared amenity spaces that may include kitchens, dining areas or living rooms.
Occupancy must be intended for continuous residential use of at least 90 days. A private sleeping unit may have bathroom facilities but cannot include a kitchen sink or cooking facilities.
The development cost charge includes contributions toward transportation, drainage, sewer, water, parks and solid waste and recycling facilities. A related zoning amendment on the same agenda would permit co-living in the R-1, R-4 and R-5 residential zones, subject to conditions.
It would allow up to six private sleeping units per co-living dwelling unit, require at least 25 square metres of shared indoor amenity space and provide communal laundry facilities. An active business licence would also be required.
The proposed vehicle parking requirement is at least one space for every two private sleeping units, with a maximum of one per sleeping unit. One secure Class A bicycle parking space would be required for each private sleeping unit.
Both charging bylaws received their first three readings in July. The Inspector of Municipalities approved the development cost charge amendment on September 11. The October 6 agenda recommends adoption of the two bylaws.
