Green building and renovating

Vancouver will soon lead the world in green building design and construction, thanks to the innovative Greenest City initiative.

As part of this initiative, the City is working to reduce the amount of energy consumed by the city's new homes 33% by 2020, with the goal of making all new buildings "carbon neutral" by 2030.

At the same time, greenhouse gas emissions from existing buildings will be reduced by 20% over 2007 levels.

How we are meeting these green building targets

The City is implementing a wide range of green building programs and policies to help reach this ambitious target, including the Green Homes program.

You can help, too. There are many incentives and programs available to you that will help you make your home more energy efficient, so you can reduce your utility bills, carbon footprint, and help Vancouver become the world's greenest city by 2020.

Green building and renovating

Laneway houses

Laneway housing can reduce our carbon footprint, expand housing choices, and ensure Vancouver remains one of the most liveable cities in the world.

Secondary suites

The City allows secondary rental suites in all parts of Vancouver. Learn the rules for installing a suite in your home or apartment, and get help with the approval process.

Green home building policies

All new one- and two-family homes must comply to Vancouver's new green building requirements. By 2020, all new homes will be carbon neutral.

Green demolition practices

Green demolition (deconstruction) helps reduce the amount of construction and demolition waste going to our landfill, while increasing the amount of recyclable and reusable building materials.

Grants and loans for energy-efficiency improvements

There are valuable grants and rebates available that can help you offset the cost of making your home more energy efficient. Save money, and do your part to help make Vancouver the world's greenest city.

Green building and renovating resources

The City's sustainability team has developed a series of green home renovation guides that will help you create a home that is healthy, saves you money, and is easy on the environment.

Green living at home

The City is working hard to meet the Greenest City 2020 target for reduced greeenhouse gas emmissions, but we need your help! Learn what you can do to make your home more energy efficient.