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More Homes for People

Last updated on February 28, 2025

B.C. is tackling the challenges people face every day, and helping more people find a home they can afford in a community they love. Learn about household supports for you, and for those who build and provide homes.

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On this page

Other housing supports 

  • B.C. Benefits Connector 
    Find out about government programs to bring down your household’s costs.
  • BC Housing Program Finder 
    Get help with paying rent, subsidized housing, or adapting your home. 
  • BC Housing 
    Learn about the range of housing options and partnerships through BC Housing. 

Our focus 

B.C. is an extraordinary place, with a strong economy and opportunities for people – but too many people are having a hard time with high housing costs. 

We’re standing up for British Columbians: increasing the supply of rental homes, supporting first-time homebuyers, and bringing on strong measures to crack down on housing speculation. And it’s making a difference. Rents are going down, more new rentals are being built than ever, and construction is going strong.

We're starting to see progress and we’re going to keep working so everyone has a home they can afford in a B.C. community they love. 

Homes for BC Map 

This interactive map shows locations of BC Housing projects that have been completed since 2017 or are currently underway.

Supporting renters

By capping annual allowable rent increases, providing an annual renters rebate up to $400, and making sure more affordable rentals are available in your community, more renters are being protected.

Rent cap and $400 refundable credit
Renters are protected from rising costs with up to a $400 refundable tax credit, and a cap on annual rent increases.

Assistance with rent and household costs
There are a range of benefits to bring down your costs in both emergencies and everyday life. See what’s available to you.

Uphold your rights and responsibilities
The Residential Tenancy Branch provides information, resources and services for residential tenancies.

Removing barriers to renting
Stratas can no longer stop condo owners from renting out their homes. 

Turning empty and short-term units into homes
Out-of-control speculation and short-term rentals are being reined in to add thousands more homes to the rental market.

Building and protecting affordable rentals
The BC government is investing in new rentals and protecting existing rentals to help more people find homes they can afford.

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Rent cap and $400 refundable credit 

Renters are supported and protected from rising costs with up to a $400 refundable tax credit, and a cap on annual rent increases.

How it works

  • B.C. renter's tax credit: Renters under the household income threshold get up to a $400 credit. 
    • The credit reduces the amount of money you owe for taxes. 
    • If it’s more than what you owe in taxes, you’ll receive the difference as a refund. 
    • Married or common-law partners can claim one credit per household. Roommates can each claim the credit.
  • Cap on rent increases: All renters are protected from rising costs of living by capping the amount rent can be increased each year and limiting rent increases to once every 12 months with 3 months’ notice.

What you need to do

Learn more

 

Assistance with rent and household costs 

There are a range of benefits to bring down your costs in both emergencies and everyday life. See what’s available to you.

How it works​

  • Help with home energy costs: The B.C. government has a number of programs for renters to save on their home energy costs.
    • Free A/C program: Apply to get a free portable air conditioner to help stay cool during extreme heat events. 
    • Climate Action Tax Credit: An individual can get up to $504 this year and a family of 4 can get up to $1,008. 
    • Keeping BC Hydro rates low: BC Hydro customers pay among the lowest energy rates in North America. No action required[RSG1] .
  • Rent Bank for unexpected financial crisis: People facing a temporary and unexpected financial crisis and unable to pay rent or an essential housing cost can get emergency assistance.
  • Rental Assistance Program (RAP): RAP provides monthly rent assistance to eligible low-income families with kids.
  • Shelter Aid For Elderly Renters (SAFER): SAFER provides monthly rent assistance to eligible seniors (age 60+).
  • Canada-BC Housing Benefit (CBCHB): The Housing Benefit assists low-income households paying their rent in the private market.
    • BC Housing selects eligible applicants from its Housing Registry and non-profit housing providers select eligible applicants from the priority groups they serve.
  • BC Rebate for Accessible Home Adaptations: The BC Rebate for Accessible Home Adaptations (BC RAHA) program provides financial help in the form of rebates to eligible low-income households to complete home adaptations for independent living.
    • Tenants and landlords may apply to the BC Rebate for Accessible Home Adaptations program if the tenant has a disability or permanent loss of physical ability, and all other requirements are met. 

What you need to do

Learn more

 

Uphold your rights and responsibilities 

The Residential Tenancy Branch provides information, resources and services for residential tenancies.

How it works

  • Start a new tenancy: Learn about your rights and responsibilities and those of your landlord when starting a tenancy.
  • During a tenancy: Learn about your rights and responsibilities and those of your landlord once a tenancy is underway. Tenancies are considered to be ongoing once a tenant has paid the security deposit to their landlord.
  • End a tenancy: Landlords and tenants must end tenancies lawfully. Learn about your rights and responsibilities and those of your landlord when ending a tenancy.
  • Solve tenancy problems: When landlords and tenants have a conflict, they should try to talk things out. If they're unable to resolve the issue through conversation or mediation, they can apply for dispute resolution or submit a complaint for investigation.

What you need to do

Learn more

 

Removing barriers to renting 

Stratas can no longer stop condo owners from renting out their homes.

How it works

  • Strata bans removed: As of November 24, 2022, no strata corporation or section is allowed to have a residential rental-restriction bylaw.

What you need to do

Learn more 

 

Turning empty and short-term units into homes 

Out-of-control speculation and short-term rentals are being reined in to add thousands more homes to the rental market.

How it works

  • Turning short-term rentals into homes for people: Legislation has been enacted to give local governments stronger enforcement tools for their short-term rental bylaws, return short-term rentals to the long-term rental market, and establish a new Provincial role in regulating short-term rentals.
  • Expanding the Speculation and Vacancy Tax: The Speculation and Vacancy Tax helps turn empty units into homes for people, ensuring foreign owners and those with primarily foreign income contribute fairly to B.C.’s tax system, and funding new affordable homes. 

What you need to do

Learn more

 

Building and protecting affordable rentals 

The B.C. government is investing in new rentals and protecting existing rentals to help more people find homes they can afford. 

How it works

  • Rental Protection Fund: The $500 million fund is available to non-profit housing organizations to purchase affordable rental buildings and co-ops, and has supported acquisition of more than 1,500 homes to-date, on track to exceed its 2,000-home target ahead of schedule. 
    • Renters in properties at risk of a significant rent increase or redevelopment can nominate the property for the fund.
  • Lower-end-of-market rental homes: For those with moderate income, who can pay rent without a subsidy, lower-end-of-market rental homes are provided by BC Housing’s non-profit, public and co-operative housing partners, and have rents calculated at the lower-end of the private market.
  • Affordable rental homes: For those with low-to-moderate income who may not be eligible for subsidized homes, affordable rental homes are provided by BC Housing’s non-profit, public and co-operative housing partners, and have rents equal to, or lower than, average rents in the private market.
  • Subsidized homes: For those with low incomes, subsidized homes are provided by BC Housing’s non-profit, public and co-operative housing partners, and have maximum rents of 30% of household total gross income, subject to minimum rent based on number of people.
  • Student housing: We’re easing the housing challenges faced by students and reducing pressure on local rental markets by building 12,000 student beds at campuses across B.C.

What you need to do

Learn more

 

Supporting first-time homebuyers 

Through partnerships, tax benefits, and building more options for first homes, the door to homeownership is being opened for more first-time homebuyers.

 

First-time homebuyers’ program 
More first-time homebuyers can apply to save up to $8,000 in property transfer tax under the higher exemption threshold.

New Homebuyer Protection Period
A new protection period gives you more time to secure financing and arrange home inspections.

Cracking down on speculators
The BC Home Flipping Tax and Foreign Buyers Tax help prevent speculators from controlling the market and driving up prices.

Opening the door for first-time homebuyers
B.C. is helping remove financial barriers for thousands of first-time homebuyers. 

18+ age restrictions removed on stratas
Thousands more families can find and stay in good homes. 

 

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First-time homebuyers’ program 

More first-time homebuyers can apply to save up to $8,000 in property transfer tax under the higher exemption threshold.

How it works

  • First-time homebuyers’ exemption: First-time homebuyers that qualify can save up to $8,000 on property transfer taxes on existing homes under new, higher exemption thresholds.
    • When purchasing an existing home worth up to $835,000, the property transfer tax is eliminated on the first $500,000 and reduced on the amount between $500,001 and $835,000.
  • Newly built home exemption: Homebuyers of newly built homes may also qualify for a newly built home exemption, for properties valued up to $1,150,000. 

What you need to do

  • If you meet the eligibility criteria, your legal professional will apply the relevant exemption to your property transfer tax return.
  • You must meet additional requirements during the first year you own the property to keep the tax exemptions.

Learn more

 

New Homebuyer Protection Period 

A new protection period gives you more time to secure financing and arrange home inspections.

How it works

  • The Home Buyer Rescission Period allows buyers to rescind their offer on certain residential properties up to three business days after their offer is accepted, giving people additional time to secure their financing and arrange home inspections.
    • Should the buyer rescind during this time, they must pay the seller 0.25% of the purchase price. 

What you need to do

  • If you rescind your offer within the period, you or your real estate agent (on your behalf) must serve notice as set out in the contract of purchase and sale in one of the following ways: by registered mail to the seller’s address, or by fax to the seller’s fax number, or by email, with a requested read receipt, to the seller’s email address. 

Learn more

 

Cracking down on speculators 

The BC Home Flipping Tax and Foreign Buyers Tax help prevent investors from controlling the market and driving up prices.

How it works

  • BC Home Flipping Tax: The tax comes into effect on January 1, 2025, and will be a tax on profit made from selling a residential property within 730 days of buying it, with tax proceeds going directly to building more affordable homes in B.C.
    • Exemptions apply to accommodate life circumstances, related persons, and builders.
  • Foreign Buyers Tax: This tax penalizes speculators and deters outside speculation in B.C.’s housing market, with recent expansion to additional communities and a rate increase to 20 percent. 

What you need to do

Learn more

 

Opening the door for first-time homebuyers 

B.C. is helping remove financial barriers for thousands of first-time homebuyers.

How it works

  • Attainable Housing Initiative at the Heather Lands: Thousands of first-time homebuyers will have the opportunity to purchase a home at an initial 40% below market value at the Heather Lands in Vancouver, made possible through an innovative financing formula envisioned by xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) (MST) Nations and delivered in partnership with the Province.
    • The Initiative will allow for studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom 99-year strata leasehold homes to be initially purchased and financed by middle-income earners at below-market prices through a 60/40 purchase financing arrangement:
      • A buyer owns the home by initially financing and paying only 60 per cent of the market price for a unit using a traditional real estate transaction (such as down payment and financing through a mortgage with the buyer’s financial institution)
      • The Government of B.C. initially finances and covers the remaining 40 per cent of the market price
      • The 40 per cent contribution is repaid by the buyer to the Province either when the owner sells their unit or after 25 years, from the purchase date, whichever comes first
      • A buyer under the initiative only needs an initial five per cent deposit (at presale) on 60 per cent of the initial market purchase price
      • AHI units will be sold as 99-year strata leaseholds on MST Nations-owned land
      • The Initiative and 60/40 purchase financing arrangement only applies to the original first-time purchase of the unit and not to secondary or subsequent purchase/sale transactions
    • Prospective buyers could be able to register and confirm their eligibility as early as Spring 2025. More information on the registration process will be made available soon.

What you need to do

  • Subscribe for updates to hear when registration for Heather Lands becomes available and new affordable housing initiatives are announced.

Learn more

 

18+ age restrictions removed on stratas 

Thousands more families can find and stay in good homes.

How it works

  • Changes to the Strata Property Act remove age restrictions in most B.C. strata buildings, meaning thousands more families can find good homes and people who decide to have children won’t have to leave their homes.
    • To preserve and promote housing for seniors, strata corporations in B.C. may have an age-restriction bylaw for an age that is not less than 55 years with exemptions for some caregivers and residents previously residing in a strata lot, children (including adult children), and younger spouses or partners.
      • A strata bylaw which restricts age to 55 and older is valid
      • A strata bylaw that sets a minimum age less than 55 years old is invalid.

What you need to do

  • Nothing! Our government will continue to take action to deliver more affordable homes for families who live and work in B.C.

Learn more

 

Supporting people who face housing barriers 

By providing emergency and long-term financial assistance, temporary, permanent, and supportive homes, and wrap-around services, more people are finding and keeping the homes they need.

Emergency assistance to keep your home
B.C. rent banks help people facing a temporary, unexpected financial crisis and unable to pay rent or essential housing costs.

Assistance for long-term rental security
There are a range of benefits to bring down your household costs. See what’s available to you.

Permanent affordable home options
Delivering thousands of affordable rental homes for people across B.C.

Safe and supportive homes to meet your specific needs
Homes with supports for people fleeing violence, seniors, people with disabilities, and those with complex care needs.

Temporary shelter and support services
Access temporary shelter spaces with services to help create a path out of homelessness.

Get help getting the housing support you need
Get in contact with the right people, where and when you need them, to help you get the services and support you need.

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Emergency assistance to stay in your home 

B.C. rent banks help people facing a temporary, unexpected financial crisis and unable to pay rent or essential housing costs.

How it works

  • People unable to pay rent or an essential housing cost due to a temporary and unexpected financial crisis can get emergency assistance through a B.C. Rent Bank.
    • Simply confirm eligibility and fill out the application at the link above, and a case manager will follow up to support you.
    • If approved, the rent bank will support you with an interest-free loan to cover rent or essential utilities (gas, hydro, water) that you can repay over a period of up to 36 months.

What you need to do

Learn more

 

Assistance for long-term rental security 

There are a range of benefits to bring down your household costs. See what’s available to you.

How it works

  • B.C. renter's tax credit: Renters under the household income threshold get up to a $400 credit.
    • The credit reduces the amount of money you owe for taxes.  
    • If it’s more than what you owe in taxes, you’ll receive the difference as a refund.  
    • Married or common-law partners can claim one credit per household. Roommates can each claim the credit.
  • Cap on rent increases: All renters are protected from rising costs of living by capping the amount rent can be increased each year and limiting rent increases to once every 12 months with 3 months’ notice.
  • Help with home energy costs: The B.C. government has a number of programs for renters to save on their home energy costs. 
    • Free A/C program: Apply to get a free portable air conditioner to help stay cool during extreme heat events.  
    • Climate Action Tax Credit: An individual can get up to $504 this year and a family of 4 can get up to $1,008.  
    • Keeping BC Hydro rates low: BC Hydro customers pay among the lowest energy rates in North America. No action required
  • Rental Assistance Program (RAP): RAP provides monthly rent assistance to eligible low-income families with kids. 
  • Shelter Aid For Elderly Renters (SAFER): SAFER provides monthly rent assistance to eligible seniors (age 60+). 
  • Canada-BC Housing Benefit (CBCHB): The Housing Benefit assists low-income households paying their rent in the private market. 
    • BC Housing selects eligible applicants from its Housing Registry and non-profit housing providers select eligible applicants from the priority groups they serve.

What you need to do

Learn more

 

Permanent affordable home options 

Delivering thousands of affordable rental homes for people across B.C.

How it works

  • BC Housing and its partners offer 3 tiers of rental housing for people with low to moderate-incomes. Some buildings offer tenancy specifically for people with disabilities and their families, seniors, and individuals and families with First Nations, Métis and Inuit ancestry.
    • Subsidized homes: For those with low incomes, subsidized homes are provided by BC Housing’s non-profit, public and co-operative housing partners, and have maximum rental rates of 30% of your household total gross income, subject to minimum rent based on number of people.
    • Affordable rental homes: For those with low-to-moderate income who may not be eligible for subsidized homes, affordable rental homes are provided by BC Housing’s non-profit, public and co-operative housing partner, and have rents equal to, or lower than, average rents in the private market.
    • Lower-end-of-market rental homes: For those with moderate income, who can pay rent without a subsidy, lower-end-of-market rental homes are provided by BC Housing’s non-profit, public and co-operative housing partners, and have rents calculated at the lower-end of the private market.

What you need to do

  • Search BC Housing listings in your area.
  • Apply to any of the above options.

Learn more

 

Safe and supportive homes to meet your specific needs 

Homes with support for people escaping violence, seniors, people with disabilities, and those with complex care needs.

Exit Now If You’re Unsafe

If you are in immediate danger, get help:

How it works

  • People leaving violence: BC Housing supports programs for survivors of gender-based violence, including women, children, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people  experiencing, or at risk of, violence with limited income. Programs include a temporary place to stay, support services, referrals, and assistance in planning next steps.
    • Transition houses and safe homes: Transition houses provide safe, temporary 24/7 staffed shelter. Most are residential homes in confidential locations where women and families live communally. Support Workers in these homes provide emotional support, crisis intervention, and safety planning.
    • Safe homes in remote communities: Safe homes provide short-term shelter, emotional support, safety planning and referrals. They are provided in a variety of ways, depending on the community, such as an apartment or townhouse unit, a hotel or motel room, or a secure room in a private home.
    • Second stage homes: Second stage homes are usually a private, secure, low-cost apartment or townhouse where you can live safely and independently for 6 – 18 months as you plan next steps with staff who can provide emotional support, safety planning and referrals.
    • Long-term homes: Long-term homes are subsidized rentals for women, gender-diverse people and/or children who are at risk of or have experience violence. Rental fees are calculated at 30% of the household's total gross income, with a minimum rent based on number of people in the household. Supports are also available, including safety planning and referrals.
  • Those at risk of homelessness: Subsidized homes with on-site supports for single adults, seniors and people with disabilities who are at risk of or experiencing homelessness.
  • Seniors and people with disabilities: Assisted Living Residences are available throughout B.C., by referral.
  • Mental health and addictions care:  There are a variety of publicly funded bed-based mental health and substance use services available across B.C.
    • Substance use treatment and recovery beds: Help Starts Here includes a description and links to available addictions treatment and recovery services including regional health authority services and lists of licensed substance use treatment and registered supportive recovery assisted living residences.
    • Complex care housing: Complex-care housing supports people living with significant mental health, addictions, or concurrent challenges, and other functional needs, who are at risk of homelessness.

What you need to do

  • Visit the relevant links in this section for detailed information about supportive housing options available to you or your loved ones.

Learn more

 

Temporary shelter and support services 

Access temporary shelter spaces with services to help create a path out of homelessness.

How it works

  • Emergency Shelter and Extreme Weather Response Programs: Emergency shelters are temporary but immediate places to stay for anyone who is homeless or at risk of homelessness, offered across B.C., with extra emergency shelter spaces during periods of extreme winter weather.
  • Drop-in Centres: Provide a place to wash, do laundry and use other services. Information about drop-in centres is available through your local municipality and local non-profits.

What you need to do

Learn more

 

Get help getting the housing support you need

Get in contact with the right people, where and when you need them, to help you get the services and support you need.

If you or a loved one is homeless

bchousing.org/housing-assistance/homelessness-services to learn more.

If you or a loved one is at-risk of homelessness

bchousing.org/housing-assistance/homelessness-services to learn more.

If you or a loved one needs mental health or addiction services

HelpStartsHere.gov.bc.ca to learn more.

If you or a loved one are leaving a violent, abusive or threatening home

bchousing.org/housing-assistance/women-leaving-violence to learn more. The safest way to call or receive calls from a shelter is from a phone that your partner cannot access, like a friend’s.

If you or a loved one is no longer able to live independently

bchousing.org/housing-assistance/housing-with-support to learn more.

If you or a loved one needs Indigenous housing support

bchousing.org/housing-assistance/rental-housing/indigenous-housing-providers to learn more.

 

Supporting homeowners and small-scale landlords 

By providing incentives, property tax grants and deferrals, and more support with tenancies, more homeowners can save on their costs and rent out units on their property.

Property tax grant and deferment
Most homeowners can apply to save at least $570 in property taxes each year. Some can apply for a low-interest tax deferral.

Help with home energy costs
There are a range of benefits to bring down your costs. See what’s available to you.

Add units to your home or property
New rules are making it easier, faster and more affordable to add a second, third or even fourth unit to your home. 

Removing barriers to renting on your property
We’re working with homeowners and small-scale rental providers to support with establishing new rental units.

Uphold your tenancy rights and responsibilities
The Residential Tenancy Branch provides information, resources and services for renters and rental providers.

 

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Property tax grant and deferment

Most homeowners can apply to save at least $570 in property taxes each year. Some can apply for a low-interest tax deferral.

How it works

  • Homeowner grant program: Most homeowners can apply for a regular grant to get up to $570 for properties in the Capital Regional District, Metro Vancouver Regional District and Fraser Valley Regional District, and $770 for all other areas of the province.
  • Property tax deferment program: Eligible homeowners can apply for a low-interest loan to defer property taxes under two streams:
    • Regular program: People 55 and older, surviving spouse of any age, a person with disabilities
    • Families with children program: Parent, step-parent or financially supporting a child

What you need to do

  • Apply each year for the homeowner grant after you receive your property tax notice and before property taxes are due.
  • Apply for property tax deferment as needed, if you are eligible.

Learn more

 

Help with home energy costs

There are a range of benefits to bring down your costs. See what’s available to you.

How it works

  • B.C. Climate Action Tax Credit: Individuals get up to $504 this year in quarterly payments combined with GST/HST rebates and a family of 4 can get up to $1,008.
  • Keeping BC Hydro rates below inflation: BC Hydro customers have the second lowest electricity bills in North America, kept below inflation for 6 straight years (15.6% lower than the rate of inflation).
  • Heat pump rebate: Income-qualified applicants can get an upfront-rebate up to $24,500 to switch to high-efficiency heat pumps in homes currently heated with oil, natural gas and propane.
  • Free portable air conditioners: Eligible households can apply to get one free portable air conditioner unit to help stay cool during extreme heat events. Apply online.
  • Home renovation rebates: Households can get up to $14,000 in rebates to recover the cost of eligible renovations to make homes more energy efficient.

What you need to do

Learn more

 

Add units to your home or property

New rules are making it easier, faster and more affordable to add a second, third or even fourth unit to your home.

How it works

  • We’ve introduced new rules to encourage small-scale, multi-unit homes, like secondary suites in single-family dwellings, garden suites, laneway homes, triplexes, multiplexes, and townhomes.
    • Secondary suites and/or accessory dwelling units (like garden suites and laneway homes) are allowed province-wide in single-family residential zones where three- to six-unit zoning is not required.
    • Subject to some additional exemptions and requirements, three to four units of small-scale, multi-unit housing must be permitted on each parcel of land, if zoned exclusively for single-family or duplex residential, which are: 
      • wholly or partly within an urban containment boundary established by a regional growth strategy, or;
      • within a municipality with a population greater than 5,000 and is wholly or partly within an urban containment boundary established by an official community plan, or;
      • in a municipality with a population greater than 5,000 that does not have an urban containment boundary.
    • Six units of small-scale, multi-unit housing must be allowed near frequent bus service on single-family and duplex residential lots that are greater than 280 m2 and within a municipality or regional district with a minimum population of 5,000.

What you need to do

Learn more

 

Removing barriers to renting on your property 

We’re working with homeowners and small-scale landlords to support new rental units.

How it works

  • Strata bans removed: As of November 24, 2022, no strata corporation or section is allowed to have a residential rental-restriction bylaw, while short-term rental restrictions still apply.
  • Free standardized designs: The Province has free standardized, customizable residential designs and a companion catalogue for people building small-scale, multi-unit housing on lots previously zoned for single-family homes and duplexes.
    • The digital designs are free to the public and can be used by builders, designers, and homeowners to build accessory dwelling units, duplexes, triplexes, quadplexes, and townhomes. 
    • Local governments may also choose to fast track approval of the designs to expedite permitting and development.
  • We’re working to support homeowners and small-scale landlords to open new rental units, including hiring more staff and reducing wait times at the Residential Tenancy Branch to ensure support is available for tenancies.

What you need to do

Learn more

 

Uphold your tenancy rights and responsibilities

The Residential Tenancy Branch provides information, resources and services for residential tenancies.

How it works

  • Start a new tenancy: Learn about your rights and responsibilities and those of your tenant when starting a tenancy.
  • During a tenancy: Learn about your rights and responsibilities and those of your tenant once a tenancy is underway. Tenancies are considered to be ongoing once a tenant has paid the security deposit to their landlord.
  • End a tenancy: Landlords and tenants must end tenancies lawfully.  Learn about your rights and responsibilities and those of your tenant when ending a tenancy.
  • Solve tenancy problems: When landlords and tenants have a conflict, they should try to talk things out. If they're unable to resolve the issue through conversation or mediation, they can apply for dispute resolution or submit a complaint for investigation.

What you need to do

Learn more

 

Supporting landowners, developers, operators, First Nations and municipalities to add more homes

By cutting red tape, speeding up approvals, fixing outdated rules, and leveraging underused public and non-profit land, more homes are being delivered, faster, for working- and middle-class people.

Spurring rental development with BC Builds 
BC Builds is speeding up development of new homes for people throughout B.C.

Add small-scale units to your home or property
New rules, tools, and incentives are making it easier, faster and more affordable to add a second, third or fourth unit.

Tools and incentives for municipalities
New tools and incentives are helping municipalities to build more sustainable and affordable communities.

Reducing construction red tape
The building permit process is simpler and more building types can be built, with lower costs.

Partnerships for non-market homes and innovative land use
Partnerships through BC Housing to build and operate more affordable homes.

Stopping criminal activity and hidden money in real estate
New measures ensure our real estate market is transparent and fair.

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Spurring rental development with BC Builds  

BC Builds is speeding up development of new homes for people throughout B.C.

How it works

  • BC Builds partners with government, First Nations, community, non-profit and private landowners, provides low-interest repayable loans and grants, and speeds up project timelines to reduce how long it takes to get a building from concept to construction, by:
    • Identifying low-cost properties for rental development through a  team working with government, First Nations, non-profit, and community property-owners. Then, working with the landowner and relevant local government to make the land available at low cost and get approvals in place.
    • Speeding up project development timelines by as much as 80% by:
      • matching private developers and housing operators with landowner property opportunities;
      • streamlining development processes;
      • working collaboratively with landowners, municipalities, and developers to remove barriers quickly;
      • facilitating partnership agreements and lease terms between landowners and residential developers, and supporting the evaluation of proposals; and
      • making predevelopment loans available to prospective partners who have land and an initial concept but need additional financial support to advance their project.
    • Providing low-interest repayable loans and grants for new residential rental developments to make projects viable and deliver some below market units.

What you need to do

Learn more

 

Add small-scale units to your home or property 

New rules, tools, and incentives are making it easier, faster and more affordable to add a second, third or even fourth unit to your home.

How it works

  • New small-scale multi-unit housing rules (PDF, 4MB): New rules encourage small-scale, multi-unit homes, like secondary suites, garden suites, and laneway homes in single-family dwellings, as well as duplexes, triplexes, and townhomes.
    • Secondary suites and/or accessory dwelling units (like garden suites and laneway homes) are allowed province-wide in single-family residential zones where three- to six-unit zoning is not required, in all municipalities and regional district electoral areas.
    • Subject to some additional exemptions and requirements, three to four units of small-scale, multi-unit housing must be permitted on each parcel of land, if zoned exclusively for single-family or duplex residential. Six units of small-scale, multi-unit housing must be allowed near frequent bus service on single-family and duplex residential lots that are greater than 280 m2 and within a municipality or regional district with a minimum population of 5,000.
  • Standardized designs: The Province has standardized, customizable residential designs and a companion catalogue for people building small-scale, multi-unit housing on lots previously zoned for single-family homes and duplexes.
    • The digital designs are free to the public and can be used by builders, designers, and homeowners to build accessory dwelling units, duplexes, triplexes, quadplexes, and townhomes. 
    • Local governments can also choose to fast track approval of the designs to expedite permitting and development.

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Tools and incentives for municipalities 

New tools and incentives are helping municipalities to build more sustainable and affordable communities.

How it works

  • Development finance: Changes to local government legislation provide new and updated development finance tools so local governments can fund the costs of infrastructure and amenities needed to support complete and livable communities.
    • Development Cost Charges (DCCs) and Development Cost Levies: (DCL) Local governments can collect DCCs on new development to help pay for specific infrastructure needed to service the development’s demands. 
      • Fire protection facilities (e.g., fire halls), police facilities, and solid waste facilities can now be funded through DCCs and DCLs
      • The DCC and DCL frameworks now include cost-shared provincial highway projects, like interchanges and highway exits. Municipalities will be able to collect and use DCCs and DCLs to finance their portion of highway facilities that are cost-shared between the province and the municipality.
    • Amenity Cost Charges (ACCs): ACCs are a new development finance tool that allow local governments to collect funds for amenities like community centres, recreation centres, daycares, and libraries from new development that results in increased population.
  • ​Inclusionary zoning: Inclusionary zoning allows local governments to require that a portion of units in a new residential development be allocated for affordable housing. To implement inclusionary zoning: 
    • Local governments will need to undertake consultation, a financial feasibility analysis and consider the most recent housing needs report
    • Local governments may collect cash-in-lieu of the affordable units and may allow for the affordable units to be provided on another site
  • Updates to Density Bonus tool: Density bonus is an existing tool that local governments use to provide a developer with the option to build to a higher density in exchange for providing affordable housing or amenities. 
    • This tool has been updated to enhance clarity in its use and consistency with inclusionary zoning, including: 
      • Local governments will need to undertake consultation and a financial feasibility analysis when developing or amending a density bonus bylaw
      • Local governments may allow developers to meet density bonus requirements by providing cash-in-lieu of amenities or affordable housing or by building affordable housing on another site
      • Changes to density bonus legislation will come into effect on the date set by the Lieutenant Governor in Council, which must be on or after June 30, 2025. At this time, all existing density bonus bylaws must comply with the new legislative requirements, and density bonus can only be used above the minimum allowable densities in transit-oriented areas
  • Tenant protection bylaws: Bill 16 provides municipalities with the authority to develop tenant protection bylaws to require developers to provide added support for tenants facing displacement in cases of redevelopment, which may include things like financial assistance, moving assistance, or the right to enter into a new tenancy agreement with the owner in another building.
  • Site-level infrastructure and transportation demand management (TDM) authorities: Bill 16 provides new authorities to secure key outcomes to support complete communities, including:
    • Expanded works and services authorities that allow local governments to require a broader range of works and services in more circumstances. For example, local governments can require street furniture, streetlamps, and more.
    • Transportation Demand Management (or TDM) authorities that allow local governments to define and require TDM measures in new developments. For example, this could include things like charging stations or bike parking.

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Reducing construction red tape  

The building permit process is simpler and more building types can be built, with lower costs.

How it works

  • Permit Connect BC: The B.C. government is making housing development projects easier with a new coordinated approach.
    • A single application portal for provincial natural resource permits is now available.
    • You can apply for all your provincial natural resource permits in one place, helping you identify needed permits, track permit applications, and connect you to location-specific permit information.
  • New municipal Building Permit Hub: The new Building Permit Hub helps you submit a building permit application through a streamlined and standardized approach across jurisdictions in B.C.
    • The tool connects you with local government and First Nation information to support the building permit submission process.
    • It enables you to easily upload required building permit information, adhere to standardized requirements across participating jurisdictions, and follow simple instructions to submit a building permit application.
    • You can currently submit Building Permit applications in Regional District of Cowichan Valley, City of Langley, Corporation of the City of North Vancouver, and Corporation of the District of Saanich, with more coming soon.
  • Single exit stair buildings: Code changes allowing the design and construction of single exit stair buildings came into effect on August 27, 2024.
  • Transit oriented development areas: Transit Oriented Development (TOD) is an approach to land use planning that locates high-density, mixed-use development within walking distance from frequent transit services, and typically incorporates residential, commercial and community services.
    • 52 TOD Areas have been designated in B.C., where local governments are required to:
      • Ensure that minimum levels of density, size, and dimension established by the Province in regulations are allowed in TOD Areas.
      • Remove restrictive parking minimums for off-street residential and allow parking volumes to be determined by market need and demand.
      • Consider guidance and details in the provincial policy manual when planning or amending zoning bylaws.

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Partnerships for non-market homes and innovative land use  

Partnerships through BC Housing to build and operate more affordable homes.

How it works

  • Community Housing Fund (CHF): CHF is a $4.4-billion investment to build more than 20,000 affordable rental homes for people with moderate and low incomes by 2031-32. More than 13,000 of these homes are open or underway across the province.
    • BC Housing intends to issue another CHF RFP in early 2025. Operators/applicants are encouraged to start planning for this round by having conversations with partners, including BC Housing.
    • Applications are open to non-profit, co-operative, and municipal housing providers, and private partners applying on behalf of non-profit societies, Indigenous groups, or co-operative and municipal housing providers.
  • Supportive Housing Fund (SHF): The Province created SHF in 2018 to fund operations of supportive housing across B.C., committing $2.3 billion to deliver 5,700 supportive housing units with 24/7 onsite support services.

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Stopping criminal activity and hidden money in real estate 

New measures ensure our real estate market is transparent and fair.

How it works

  • Land Owner Transparency Registry: This publicly accessible registry is a tool that provides a clearer picture of who owns and holds interest in land in B.C.
    • The Land Owner Transparency Act requires reporting bodies (relevant corporations, trustees and partners) that own real estate or hold certain other interests in land to file a transparency report identifying the beneficial owners with the Land Owner Transparency Registry.
    • The Province continues work to expand access to Land Title and Survey Authority data to ensure relevant authorities have the information they need to investigate, detect and deter money laundering, tax evasion and other crimes in real estate.
  • Condo and Strata Assignment Integrity Register: To make B.C.’s real estate market more transparent and fairer for people, the Condo and Strata Assignment Integrity Register is an online register to track assignments of pre-sale condos, which then provides the information to the Province of B.C., the B.C. Financial Services Authority (BCFSA) and the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

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 * Check the links provided throughout this page for full eligibility requirements and program details.

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