Introduction to zoning

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.

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• Step 1: Determine your property's zoning district

  The City of Vancouver is divided into zoning districts. The Zoning and Development By-law sets out the rules for development in each zoning district.

  Find the 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 PDF file (174 KB) for the general regulations that may apply to your property
  • Section 11 Use-Specific Regulations PDF file (552 KB) for any specific requirements related to the proposed uses on the property
  • Section 2 Definitions PDF file (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 PDF file (30 KB) for the types of development and uses that don't require a development permit
  • Steps to getting a development permit if you require a development permit (A building permit may also be required.)
  • Development permit conditions resource for land dedication, public realm, and typical infrastructure conditions that may apply to your property

  Questions? Contact the Development and Building Services Centre online