Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing

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 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 between 3-6 housing units per lot in all single-detached zones, depending on lot size and location. 

Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing 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 between 3-6 housing 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. 
    • SSMUH proposals seeking 5 or more units must apply for a Form and Character Development Permit.
  • The District of Saanich has also removed the owner occupancy requirement for secondary suites and garden suites. This means:
    • Both a secondary suite and a garden suite may be permitted on the same property. 
    • Properties outside of the Urban Containment Boundary are allowed one secondary suite. 

All residential development in the District of Saanich requires a Building Permit. This includes new and recommissioned secondary suites.

SSMUH Resources

Refer to the SSMUH Project Data Table for an overview of what information you will have to include with your application.

Additional Considerations

  • The Servicing Officer may require a portion of your land to support new or expanded transportation infrastructure to accommodate increased density. These requirements, established under the Local Government Act, are intended to ensure that development is matched with the necessary public infrastructure. To learn more about the land dedication and frontage improvement requirements for your SSMUH project, contact Development Services at development@saanich.ca.
  • If you are planning to build a SSMUH project, you must complete and submit the Houseplex Fire Flow Requirements Checklist as part of your Building Permit application. Depending on the results of this checklist, you may be required to submit Fire Flow (FUS) calculations as part the Fire Flow Requirements for your Building Permit application..
  • 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 proposed to be included in a strata plan, Municipal approval for Strata Conversion is required.