B.C. to legalize all secondary suites, introduce flipping tax, hike density on single-family lots

B.C. will overhaul municipal zoning rules to allow so-called missing-middle housing, such as townhomes and multiplex homes on single family lots. It will also introduce a flipping tax and legalize all secondary suites as part of Premier David Eby’s refreshed housing plan announced on Monday.

Critics, however, said the plan lacks specific details and a sense of urgency since most of the required legislation won’t be introduced until the fall. There are also concerns that up-zoning single family lots could push land prices up further as homeowners jockey to sell to developers at the highest price.

“Simply put, we need to build more homes for people faster,” Eby said during a news conference in Victoria, in front of a row of new townhouses on Wilson Street. Later this year, the NDP will introduce legislation that will allow three to four units on a traditional single-family detached lot and even higher density in areas close to transit hubs.

“Single family detached homes are out of reach for many middle-class people. And one or two bedroom condos often don’t meet the needs of growing families. Family friendly neighbourhoods need more small-scale, multi-unit homes.”