The City of Vancouver makes improvements to City streets and sidewalks through initiatives proposed by the City, or requested by local property owners.

In both cases, property owners can choose to support or oppose the initiative.

City proposed initiatives

When the City proposes an initiative, the City petitions local property owners to gauge their support.

Property owner-requested initiatives

When a property owner proposes an initiative, the City provides that owner with a petition to gauge the support of  owners benefitting from this initiative.

A successful petition has signatures from at least two-thirds of affected property owners.

If a majority of local owners support a proposed initiative, the project would be brought to City Council for approval and funding.

However, under the new 2012 to 2014 Capital Plan, funding for the City's contribution is not available for street, lane or sidewalk improvements.

How an initiative proceeds

Improvement projects can only proceed if a majority of affected owners support the proposal.

Private property improvements

If you are planning to do construction or make improvements on private property, the City provides standards and guidelines so that the end result meets City building codes, and is safe and accessible.

Download the City's construction standards below.