What you need to know
The Downtown Eastside Temporary Occupancy Permit Pilot (DTES TOPP) is a 2-year initiative beginning January 2026 to help fill vacant storefront spaces in the DTES through a simplified permitting process while maintaining life safety standards.
Whether you're testing a business idea or looking for short-term space, this pilot is designed to help you safely get started.
What the pilot offers
- Development Permit exemption for change of use between 6 uses. Review criteria for details
- Temporary occupancy permits for up to 24 months for the 6 uses
- Simplified building life safety checklist for temporary occupancy of the 6 uses
- Free inspections to identify building life safety requirements for your space
- Dedicated permit stream and support to guide you through the process
- Information sessions and resources for property owners, Business Improvement Areas, and prospective tenants
Participate in the pilot
If you have a space you’re interested in, submit an enquiry or request a free inspection to learn what upgrades are needed for temporary occupancy.
Council approved
This initiative was approved by Council on November 4, 2025.
We'll monitor the pilot outcomes and report back to Council in late 2026.