What is a laneway house and can I build one in Vancouver?

A laneway house is a small, self-contained residential dwelling located behind a primary home on the same property, accessed via a rear laneway or rear access route. Yes, you can build one in Vancouver if your property meets the city's zoning requirements for single-family zones with lane access.

In Vancouver, laneway houses are permitted in most single-family (RS) zones as a form of secondary suite that adds housing options to established neighbourhoods. Your property must have rear lane access, and the laneway house must comply with size limitations, height restrictions, and setback requirements set by the City of Vancouver. These homes work well as rental units, housing for family members, or home office spaces. Contact the City of Vancouver's building division early in your planning process to confirm your specific property's eligibility and requirements, and consider consulting with a local custom home builder experienced in laneway house construction to navigate permits and design efficiently.