In November 2023, the Province introduced Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) legislation. This type of housing is often referred to as the “missing middle”, and includes forms such as duplexes, townhouses, houseplexes, and small apartments, that can be well integrated into existing neighbourhoods.
With the introduction of SSMUH legislation required all local governments across British Columbia to make changes to their Zoning Bylaw to allow 3, 4 or 6 units per lot in all single-detached zones, depending on lot size and location.
Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) Development at a Glance
The Zoning Bylaw amendments for Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) became effective on June 30th, 2024.
- The SSMUH Zoning Bylaw amendments now allow for up to 3, 4, or 6 units, without rezoning, on residential lots located within the Urban Containment Boundary.
- The number and type of permitted housing units varies depending on the size and location of your parcel.
- Parcels with 4 units or fewer are now exempt from requiring a Form and Character Development Permit.
- The District of Saanich has also removed the owner occupancy requirement for secondary suites and garden suites.
- Both a secondary suite and a garden suite may be permitted on the same property.
- Properties outside of the Urban Containment Boundary are allowed 1 secondary suite.
- All residential development in the District of Saanich requires a Building Permit. This includes new and recommissioned secondary suites.
Additional Resources
- SMUHH Frequently Asked Questions
- Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing Application Guide
- Refer to the SSMUH Project Data Table for an overview of what information you will have to include with your application.
- Review Fire Flow Requirements, a critical component of planning and permitting for your project which directly affects public safety, infrastructure design, and emergency response.
- Refer to the Development Cost Charge (DCC) Interpretation Bulletin to understand cost charges for SSMUH projects.
- For SSMUH developers interested in subdivision or the creation of strata titled lots, see Subdivision.
- Note that in cases where a previously occupied building is propsed to be included in a strata plan, Municipal approval for Strata Conversion is required.
