May 6, 2025

In December 2023, the Province enacted a suite of legislative changes that significantly reshaped planning regulations in B.C. These included: 

• Bill 44 – Supporting small-scale multi-unit housing (SSMUH) 
• Bill 46 – Introducing Amenity Cost Charges (ACCs) and expanding Development Cost Charges (DCCs) 
• Bill 47 – Establishing Transit-Oriented Areas (TOAs) 

In April 2024, Bill 16 was introduced, establishing tools for inclusionary zoning and a new framework for density bonusing. Municipalities must update zoning bylaws with density bonus provisions by June 30, 2025, to comply with the Local Government Act. 

In response to this, several municipalities have formally requested an extension from the Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, citing the significant work required to meet the current deadline and other concerns.  

The following municipalities have submitted extension requests, along with their respective Council reports: 

• City of Surrey 
• City of New Westminster 
• City of Richmond 
• City of Coquitlam