Duplexes in Vancouver

Duplexes in Vancouver

What are some requirements for building a duplex in Vancouver?

In September 2018, the City of Vancouver rezoned approximately 67,000 lots (99% of all single family properties in Vancouver) to allow duplexes to be constructed on lots which were previously only zoned for single family houses.

Duplexes are permitted in the following zones:

  • RS-1, RS-1A, RS-1B, RS-2, RS-5, RS-6, RS-7
  • RT-5, RT-5N, RT-11, RT-11N
  • RM-7, RM-7N, RM-7AN, RM-8, RM-8A, RM-8N, RM-8AN

The below zoning map outlines the areas in Vancouver where duplexes are permitted outright. 

This approval applies for new construction only and the resulting homes can be strata-titled, which means each duplex can be sold independently of the other, unlike laneway homes which cannot be sold separate from the main house. 

Duplexes cannot be built in conjunction with a laneway home.  However, secondary suites are allowed or required depending on the size of the lot.  Each duplex must contain at least 2 bedrooms.

How can I get started?

Please look for more information in our Multi-family Dwellings (Duplexes/Triplexes) section of our website, where we can answer more of your questions on budgets and next steps.