Housing

Housing is an important part of community and regional planning. Through the Local Government Act and the Community Charter, local governments have been empowered with a range of planning and legislative tools to implement housing policies.

Provisions in the Land Title Act are expected to encourage more communities to approve the construction of freehold row-housing, an affordable and environmentally sustainable form of housing. The legislation ensures that party wall agreements, which outline obligations and entitlements, are transferred with the sale of the property. More information can be found on the Office of Housing and Construction Standards website.

The publications below were produced by the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development and the Office of Housing and Construction Standards to support local governments in developing housing policy.
 

Planning for Housing 2004: An Overview of Local Government Initiatives 2004 (PDF, 632KB)

The guide provides examples of the initiatives undertaken by local governments in British Columbia to encourage the development of housing options.

A Local Government Guide for Improving Market Housing Affordability 2005 (PDF, 4.5MB)

The guide illustrates how local governments across British Columbia are working to increase the supply and general affordability of market housing. It highlights effective practices and provides practical information for planners, local government officials, non-profit housing providers and private sector developers.

Rental Housing Planning Guide 2002 (PDF, 443KB)

The guide provides tools for local government to promote the preservation of existing and the construction of new rental housing. The guide contains strategies for small and large communities to use when working with the housing sector to meet the rental housing needs of residents.

Supportive Housing for Seniors: A Policy and Bylaw Guide 1999 (PDF, 160KB)

The guide addresses the challenges of providing housing for an aging population. The guide includes information for local governments on drafting policies, bylaws and guidelines as well as encouraging and evaluating proposals for supportive housing developments.

Secondary Suites: A Guide for Local Governments 2005 (PDF, 2.6MB)

The guide is designed to help local governments develop and implement secondary suite programs. The guide highlights practices intended to promote affordable rent, tenant security, and suite quality as well as provide practical information for elected officials, planners, and others.

Standards of Maintenance Bylaw Guide and Sample Bylaw 1996

The guide is intended to help local governments develop a Standards of Maintenance bylaw to ensure that rental housing meets minimum standards of comfort and safety. A model standards of maintenance bylaw has been included as well as some suggestions to help ensure the bylaw meets community needs.