May 15, 2026

As mentioned in previous updates, on May 12, Council gave three readings to an amended repeal and replacement of the Zoning Bylaw 2026 and new Development Permit Area Guidelines. With the Zoning Bylaw, FAR-based zoning districts are being repealed with the adoption of Zoning Bylaw 2026. Height-based zoning districts will fully align with the new Form and Character DPA Guidelines and Burnaby 2050 OCP land use designations.

During the meeting, the City passed a motion directing staff to undertake a financial viability analysis to retain the maximum number of affordable housing units while maintaining financial viability. This intends to maintain that replacement units be converted into inclusionary units should an eligible tenant decline their right of first refusal or vacate a replacement unit.

The DPA Guidelines include the following:

• Form and Character - Design guidance across a range of topics, including building siting and orientation, architectural form and character, landscape and site design, site access, and the interface with the public realm;
• Streamside Protection and Enhancement - Protect and enhance Burnaby’s aquatic habitats and riparian areas where land is developed; and
• Tenant protection - Ensure tenants are protected through support and benefits.

More information can be found in the full report by City staff.

May 1, 2026

On April 28, Council approved the repeal and replacement of the Zoning Bylaw 2026 and new Development Permit Area Guidelines. With the Zoning Bylaw, FAR-based zoning districts are being repealed with the adoption of Zoning Bylaw 2026. Height-based zoning districts will fully align with the new Form and Character DPA Guidelines and Burnaby 2050 OCP land use designations.

The DPA Guidelines include the following:

• Form and Character - Design guidance across a range of topics, including building siting and orientation, architectural form and character, landscape and site design, site access, and the interface with the public realm;
• Streamside Protection and Enhancement - Protect and enhance Burnaby’s aquatic habitats and riparian areas where land is developed; and
• Tenant protection - Ensure tenants are protected through support and benefits.

More information can be found in the full report by City staff.