Build a multiplex

Steps to apply to build a multiplex

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  Step 1: Check eligibility

  A. Check multiplex eligibility (all projects)

  Site zone: Must be in these zones (check your site’s zone):

  • R1-1 PDF file (621 KB)
  • RT-7 PDF file (574 KB)
  • RT-9 PDF file (570 KB)
  • R3-1, R3-2, and R3-3 PDF file (474 KB)
  • R4-1 PDF file (484 KB)
  • R5-1, R5-2, R5-3, and R5-4 PDF file (498 KB)
  • First Shaughnessy District PDF file (249 KB) 

  Number of units: 3 to 8 units are allowed (varies by zone)

  Site requirements, building or unit configuration, building design, and more: Refer to the Low Density Housing Options How-to Guide PDF file (17 MB)

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  Try the Project Requirements Exploration Tool

  • Explore if a single detached house, duplex, or laneway house is allowed on your property in any residential zoning district.
  • Find out what permits are needed to build it.

  Explore project requirements 

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  B. Work with a design professional

  We recommend hiring a residential designer or architect to prepare plans and get permits.

  What to consider early in the process

  • Check if your site:
    • Is located on an artesian well or aquifer
    • Has an underground fuel storage tank
    • Contains a protected archaeological site External website, opens in new tab
    • Is located in the Japanese beetle regulated area
  • Build a low-energy, high-efficiency home
  • Use power efficient design to optimize your electrical service capacity PDF file (1.2 MB)
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  Step 2: Complete prerequisites

  A. Confirm electrical servicing requirements

  Note Contact BC Hydro several weeks before applying to check if your site needs electrical upgrades. Request an electrical design connection External website, opens in new tab with BC Hydro to review your project's electrical needs and existing transformer capacity.

  B. Apply for sewer and water connection permits

  Multiplexes need a:

  • Commercial sewer connection permit
  • Commercial water connection permit

  Note Have your BC-registered professional engineer (mechanical, civil) apply for commercial sewer and water permits before applying for a building permit.

  C. Check rainwater management requirements

  Starting July 1, 2025, most new projects will need to follow rainwater management requirements. For design guidance, refer to the Low Density Housing Options How-to Guide PDF file (14 MB).

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  Step 3: Apply

  Apply through the Development and Business Services website

  Get personalized checklists of required documents, save and return anytime, faster intake, and direct messaging with intake staff.

  1. Create an account (separate from the permit issuing and Van311 sites).
  2. Create a project to check eligibility and set up permits.
  3. Apply for permits and upload documents.

  What permits you'll need

  • 1 development permit
  • 1 building permit per building
  • 1 demolition permit (if you're demolishing an existing building)

  Note Apply for your development permit first, then building permits later.

  If your proposed multiplex buildings have 1 or 2 units each and the site isn't in the First Shaughnessy District, you can choose to apply for all permits at the same time and we'll process them together.

  Start application process

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  Step 4: Pay fees

  Note After you apply, we'll check for applications for completeness. When they’re complete, we’ll contact you to pay fees.

  If you applied for the permit:

  • Pay fees online by credit card

  If you didn't apply for the permit, but you're paying the fees:

  • Pay fees in person or by mail

  Note There's a $200 maximum for cash payments. Include your permit number on cheques.

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  Step 5: Get permits

  A. We will notify you

  After a detailed review of the submitted plans and documents by various staff teams, we will notify you about:

  • A list of conditions and items to address before we can issue your permit(s) 
  • Any outstanding payments for Development Cost Levies (DCL), Development Cost Charges (DCC), damage deposits, and other applicable permit fees.

  B. We approve your permit(s)

  When we issue your permit(s), we will send you an email with instructions to:

  • Download and print your permit(s)
  • Approved drawings
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  Step 6: Start construction

  After we issue your building permits, you can begin work. 

  Before you start 

  • Begin work within 6 months or your permit becomes invalid. 
  • Apply for trade permits (plumbing, electrical, gas, fire sprinkler). 
  • Apply for a construction street use permit and temporary street occupancy permit, if needed. 
  • Get a Movement Certificate from CFIA if you’ll move soil or plant materials outside of a regulated area to prevent the spread of the Japanese beetle. 

   During construction 

  • Keep 1 printed copy of your City-approved permit at the jobsite. 
  • Keep 1 full-sized set of City-approved drawings with the acceptance stamp at the jobsite. 
  • Book inspections at various construction stages. 

   After construction 

  • Apply for occupancy permits. 

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