Introduction to zoning

Zoning and land use document library

Map of zoning districts

Access zoning and land use documents, including the Zoning and Development By-law, official development plans, policies, guidelines, and bulletins.

Review the zoning and land use document library

Authority to regulate land use

In Vancouver, the authority to regulate land use is granted by the Vancouver Charter. The charter is a provincial statute that specifies the types of by-laws the City can enact and what the by-laws can regulate.

In keeping with the authority granted by the charter, the Zoning and Development By-law establishes regulations for the development of land in Vancouver.

What the by-law regulates

The types of land uses allowed
Where a building can be located on a site
The building's maximum height and size
Other provisions necessary to enable good city building

What's happeningCity-initiated rezoning approved for some areas within Broadway Plan and Cambie Corridor Plan

On October 7, 2025, Council approved rezoning of some areas within the Broadway Plan and Cambie Corridor Plan to new low-rise, mid-rise, and high-rise residential zones.

In these areas, you can now apply for a development permit or a development permit enquiry.

Learn more about the zoning changes (49 MB)

Implementation is underway for the Rupert and Renfrew Station Area Plan

We’re updating bylaws and policies to reflect the objectives of the Rupert and Renfrew Station Area Plan.

Learn more about the comprehensive plan

How to use the by-law

Want to find out what uses are allowed on your property? Follow these steps and review the relevant regulations in the Zoning and Development By-law and any related by-laws before you begin.

Step 1: Determine your property's zoning district
Step 2: Review the rules in the district schedule that applies to your property
Depending on your property’s zoning designation, review the applicable district schedule.

Is the use you are considering a conditional approval use?

In each zoning district, land uses are categorized as either outright or conditional approval uses:
- Outright approval uses are those that are allowed, without any conditions, provided that they comply with by-law regulations
- Conditional approval uses are those that may be allowed, subject to conditions as determined by the Director of Planning, or may be refused
Check section 2.2 of the district schedule where the property is located to see if there are any conditions that apply.

Can any of the regulations be varied?

Some regulations can be varied by the Director of Planning, as set out in the district schedule and in the general sections of the by-law. If so, check to see if there are any relevant guidelines that describe the criteria that might be considered by the Director of Planning when considering whether to vary a regulation.
Step 3: Review other sections of the by-law
Review:
- Section 10 General Regulations (174 KB) for the general regulations that may apply to your property
- Section 11 Use-Specific Regulations (552 KB) for any specific requirements related to the proposed uses on the property
- Section 2 Definitions (669 KB) to ensure a clear understanding of the terms used in this by-law. The definitions are organized alphabetically and include definitions for all land uses as well as other related terms. Where relevant, additional information is provided including references to any use-specific regulations in section 11 and illustrations that help explain a term.
Step 4: Review policies and guidelines, parking requirements, and other related by-laws
Review:
- Relevant area and/or topic specific plans, policies, guidelines, or bulletins to determine if they are applicable to your property
- The Parking By-law, which contains the requirements associated with motor vehicle and bicycle parking spaces, and loading spaces
- Related by-laws to determine if they apply to your property (for example, Protection of Trees By-law, Heritage By-law, Sign By-law, Subdivision By-law, Health By-law, and Noise Control By-law)
Step 5: Review what you need to do if you are thinking of renovating or building
Review:
- Section 4 of the by-law (30 KB) to see the types of development and uses that do not require a development permit
- Steps to getting a development permit if you require a development permit. A building permit may also be required.
Questions? Contact the Development and Building Services Centre online

Rupert and Renfrew Station Area Plan

The Rupert and Renfrew Station Area Plan is a comprehensive plan, designed to guide change and growth in the neighbourhood.

Introduction to zoning

Zoning and land use document library

Authority to regulate land use

What the by-law regulates

What's happeningCity-initiated rezoning approved for some areas within Broadway Plan and Cambie Corridor Plan

Implementation is underway for the Rupert and Renfrew Station Area Plan

How to use the by-law

Step 1: Determine your property's zoning district

Step 2: Review the rules in the district schedule that applies to your property

Step 3: Review other sections of the by-law

Step 4: Review policies and guidelines, parking requirements, and other related by-laws

Step 5: Review what you need to do if you are thinking of renovating or building

Rupert and Renfrew Station Area Plan

Contact information, partner agencies, and website policies