The West Vancouver Zoning Map helps you understand the zoning regulations for different types of properties in West Vancouver. These zones describe what is not permitted, so determining which zone your property falls into can be a tricky process. Luckily, the City of Vancouver has opened their zoning and building datasets to the public, which you can access online. To create this map, I used Mapbox, a map making platform with great extrusion properties.
Residential zoning helps define the total size of buildings
Residential zoning in West Vancouver is a government process that helps define the total size of buildings. It also helps define the type of building that can be built on a property. Most West Vancouver properties are zoned for single-family homes. But zoning for multi-unit buildings is also available.
The size limit on single-family homes is designed to minimize change to single-family neighbourhoods. While Seattle’s 2015 HALA report recommended a similar cap, city leaders backed away from the proposal following fierce opposition from home owners. However, Vancouver can adjust the zoning rules to allow duplexes to exceed the size of single-family homes, which would tip the scales toward smaller, less expensive duplex houses.
Residential zoning helps define the total size and shape of buildings on a parcel. It limits the size of buildings by lot area and their dimensions. Buildings in residential zones must have access to light and sun. They also need to be set apart from other uses. In addition, group housing should have a minimum amount of outdoor space. While building size is one of the primary deciding factors in the approval of a building, other factors should also be considered.
The District of West Vancouver recently introduced a comprehensive plan to address housing issues in West Vancouver. The plan includes several zoning districts and district schedules. Each district has specific regulations for the different areas of the city. The zoning districts are explained in detail in the Zoning and Development By-Law.
Residential zoning helps define the total size and density of buildings in West Vancouver. In this city, only half of the land is zoned for single-family homes. In some neighborhoods, there are no such restrictions. This makes it difficult to build small apartments, row houses, and duplexes.
Home-based artist studios
One possible location for home-based artist studios is in a multi-family building or a corner store, if they are a “recreational use.” The West Vancouver Zoning Map shows that this type of business is permitted in “multi-family buildings.” The zoning map also shows that physician offices are permitted in multi-family buildings.
Home-based daycares
If you’re planning to open a home-based daycare, you need to comply with the regulations set out by the City and the Province. The City’s community service department can explain the requirements and assist you through the application process. You must legally own the space and have a business license, if required.
Craft breweries
Craft breweries are not a new idea in Vancouver. However, there are issues surrounding their development. For example, the area is facing gentrification and the loss of affordable rental sites. Another concern is the property tax. This new business could increase the property taxes without directly benefiting the residents.
The development of craft breweries will impact the existing zoning in West Vancouver. However, it is still early enough to tell if they are going to change the character of the area. Craft breweries have the potential to transform the city. While they are not a part of the core of the community, they can benefit the local economy. The area surrounding these breweries should be zoning-friendly to support their operations.
Another issue is the location of these breweries. Many are located in industrial zones. Moreover, their location in these areas has the potential to attract a large number of craft beer consumers. Craft breweries in industrial zones also have the potential to have minimal effect on neighboring properties. Moreover, their presence in a community can help trigger gentrification processes.
A brewery in the industrial zone adjacent to a residential zone might not be desirable. However, the city does not want to discourage the development of these businesses. The city has been working to create a more liveable environment. The creation of craft breweries has been an important step in gentrification in West Vancouver.
The city is in the process of updating its zoning bylaw, making it easier for craft breweries to operate. This revision addresses a range of different built forms and zoning categories. The new bylaw will allow craft breweries to expand into these zones, including commercial and residential zones.
Distilleries allowed on some commercial lots
The District of West Vancouver has passed zoning changes that allow distilleries, wineries, and breweries on some commercial lots. The new zoning rules will allow for alcohol manufacturing in certain commercial zones, including the AC1 and AC2 zones. The new zoning laws stipulate that these businesses must offer retail and wholesale sales. However, West Vancouver currently does not have light industrial zones, which would allow distilleries and wineries.
The changes to the zoning bylaws are subject to a public hearing on March 29. If you have an interest in creating a new business in the West Vancouver area, you should take advantage of the new rules. The changes will give you more flexibility in determining your business’ location. The new zoning bylaws will also allow home-based artist studios and daycares to operate.
Among many other things, David A. Grantham is a contributing author to UmassExtension West Vancouver Blo. He is a renowned expert on real estate in BC.
Born in North Vancouver, Louisiana, Dr. Grantham grew up in Lower Lonsdale. He then went on to complete his business degree at the University British Columbia. As of this writing, Grantham has completed over 100 projects, including the development of a high rise building in Vancouver.
He is a husband, father, son, brother, and friend. He was a dedicated outdoorsman and enjoyed sports such as hunting, fishing, scuba diving, and snow skiing. His wife, Alison Grantham, and their two daughters survived him. He is survived by his wife Alison Martin Grantham and two daughters.