Is it "too little, too late" for small-scale densification? Exploring adding units to existing houses in Victoria, BC
Subject
Abstract
The tendency for housing projects to be limited to either large developments or single-detached neighbourhoods has led to the “missing-middle” across Canada. While middle-density housing includes modest apartment buildings, it also includes small-scale additions to existing homes, such as adding a secondary suite or detached accessory dwelling unit (called a “garden suite” in Victoria). Today, British Columbia’s Local Government Act makes single-detached zoning a thing of the past for most municipalities in British Columbia. Victoria is an example of a municipality that has welcomed these changes. Recent updates to the City’s Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw have gone above and beyond to allow increased density across the city. This research explores how adding units to existing houses fits into the current planning context in Victoria and how the municipality can help support these small-scale interventions where appropriate. An analysis of relevant policies and regulations, and interviews with professionals in the field were completed as part of this research. This study suggests that the City of Victoria should focus on small ways that processes, policies, and regulations can be updated to reduce barriers for homeowners. This includes clarifying policies and regulations, increasing flexibility in the ways policies and regulations are enforced, streamlining processes for homeowners, and altering regulations to ensure larger lots have more opportunities for small-scale densification.