YOUR PROPERTY. NEW POSSIBILITIES.

A 9-part series - District of North Vancouver’s new residential zoning rules.

Part 5 of 9: Could Your Property Accommodate More Than One Household?

Housing needs are changing.

Adult children are staying at home longer. Aging parents may want to live closer to family. Homeowners are looking for mortgage helpers, and many families simply want more flexibility in how they use their homes.

The District's new R1 and R2 zoning rules continue to recognize this.

Secondary suites remain permitted, with a suite able to occupy up to 49% of the principal dwelling's size, subject to the applicable regulations.

For an R2 property that can also accommodate a coach house, the possibilities become particularly interesting.

A property could potentially include:

a principal home + a secondary suite + a coach house.

That does not necessarily mean every property can accommodate all three, but it reflects a broader move toward allowing detached residential lots to house more than one household.

What does this mean for my property?

Even if you have no intention of becoming a landlord, additional living space can create flexibility.

A suite could accommodate an adult child today and a caregiver later. A coach house could house parents now and potentially become a rental in the future.

For buyers, these possibilities may also become increasingly important when comparing properties.

A home that provides adaptable space for another generation or an additional source of income may offer very different long-term utility from one that does not.

As always, the exact potential depends on the property itself and on Building Code, permitting and zoning requirements.

Next, we are looking at an existing space many homeowners may not realize could have new potential.

Next week: Could Your Garage Become Living Space?

This article is a general summary and is not intended as legal, financial or planning advice. Property-specific requirements should always be confirmed with the District of North Vancouver.