City of White Rock SSMUH Updates

Updating White Rock’s Land Use Regulations in Response to Bill 44.

THE CHALLENGE

In 2024, the City of White Rock engaged MODUS to provide expert advice on adapted zones to accommodate Small Scale Multi-Unit Housing units, updated Development Permit Areas guidelines, and changes to its Development Procedures Bylaw, all related to Bill 44, BC’s new provincial housing legislation on Small Scale Multi-Unit Housing.

THE RESPONSE

White Rock sits perched on hillsides next to Semiahmoo Bay. The single detached neighbourhoods most affected by Bill 44, are often found on steep slopes where the design of homes require special attention. Our work included a review of the Zoning Bylaw, GIS mapping to reveal impacts of SSMUH across the City, and 3D modelling of different housing configurations and zoning parameters. Given the unique context, the task required a careful analysis on feasible design solutions that would meet the intent of the new legislation and wouldn’t prevent plex-homes from being built. A recommendations report was developed highlighting a path of compliance with SSMUH legislation, recommendations on the consolidation of zones, new definitions, updates to development permit area guidelines, and changes to the Development Procedures Bylaw highlighting opportunities for greater delegated authorities to staff. All recommendations were adopted by Council in 2024.

Client

City of White Rock