The City of North Vancouver is inviting residents to comment on proposed changes to its Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw as it works to comply with new provincial housing rules.
In a press release, the City said the updates respond to Bill 25, passed by the Province in November 2025, which expanded where Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing can be built. The legislation allows more property owners across the city to add housing over time, including within heritage areas.
The City must update its planning and zoning rules by June 30, 2026, the press release noted. This will require allowing up to six housing units per lot within Frequent Transit Areas, defined as a 400-metre radius around frequent bus routes. Minimum on-site parking requirements will be removed in those areas, and all remaining single-detached and duplex zones will be replaced with zoning that permits three, four, or six units per lot.
The proposed approach is intended to meet provincial requirements while maintaining neighbourhood livability and character, the press release further noted.
Heritage areas under review
The new provincial rules also apply to properties in North Vancouver’s heritage areas, except those protected by Heritage Designation Bylaws adopted before June 30, 2024.
The City is seeking public input on how new housing should fit into heritage neighbourhoods while still complying with Bill 25. The press release noted that feedback will help guide possible updates to design guidelines that shape how new development fits into these areas.
Public invited to participate
Several engagement opportunities are scheduled over the coming weeks.
Guided Ottawa Gardens walking tours will take place on Monday, Feb. 23, at 3 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 28, at 10 a.m., starting at West 6th Street and Chesterfield Avenue. Each tour will last about 1.5 hours and allow residents to discuss heritage character on site.
Drop-in information sessions will also be held at Queen Mary Elementary School on Feb. 28, North Vancouver City Library on Mar. 3, and Royal Canadian Legion Branch 118 on Mar. 4. Residents can learn about the legislation, review the City’s proposals, and share feedback with staff.
An online information showcase will run from Feb. 23 to Mar. 13, allowing residents to review materials and submit comments digitally. Furthermore, a formal Official Community Plan town hall, required by legislation, is scheduled for April 1 at 5 p.m. at the John Braithwaite Community Centre, the press release noted.
