In 2024, the provincial government brought in new housing legislation with the aim of addressing affordability by increasing housing supply throughout BC, including in Burnaby. The new legislation allows density increases beyond what has traditionally been permitted in Burnaby neighbourhoods. In areas previously zoned for single- and two-family housing, “small-scale multi-unit housing” of up to 4 units is now allowed on most lots. In regions near frequent transit service, as many as six units are permitted.
The legislation also calls for increased density in “transit-oriented areas” (TOAs), which are the areas surrounding SkyTrain stations and bus exchanges. The new rules require Burnaby to approve building heights from 8 to 20 storeys in TOAs, depending on the distance from the station or exchange.
