Many clients have approached us about building a laneway house on their property. They are excited at the prospect of adding more space for a growing family and/or rental to help with mortgage payments. Unfortunately, for a few of our clients, it is currently not possible due to site conditions. As it is in it’s pilot phase, we are sure some of the conditions will be relaxed once the City of Vancouver has had a chance to review the project after 100 units are built or three years, whichever comes first. In the meantime, to help you prepare yourself for this venture (and to prevent any disappointments when you do visit City Hall to apply for a development permit), here’s a checklist to identify any “project killers” right away:
Pre-qualification Questionaire
Full lane width – I have a fully dedicated laneway of 20′ in width that is currently used for vehicular traffic Site width – My site has a minimum width of 33′ Eligible zone – My site is located in an RS-1 or RS-5 zone Minimum sideyard fire access – I will be able to provide the required minimum (2.95′) wide path of travel, with a minimum of 3.0m (9.84′) overheadServices Questionaire
Gas line location – I have located my gas line & confirmed that my LWH will not be in conflict with the existing gas line routing & locations (If you need this information call BC One @ 1-800-474-6886 BC Hydro locations – I have contacted BC Hydro (1-877-520-1355) & determined that my proposed LWH has no conflicts with any of the following: power pole location(s), guy wires or overhead transformer or overhead powerline clearances Telecommunications – I have contacted Telus & have confirmed that there are no requirements to relocate communication services for the LWH project Water lines – I have consulted with engineering services at the City of Vancouver & investigated the feasibilityLWH Pre-Application Checklist
This is a list of items you will need to bring to your meeting with a planner. The more prepared you are for this meeting the more time you will save in having to schedule multiple meetings with planning.
Photos of your site showing relevant lane & adjacent neighbour context Zoning analysis, this would include site area, existing site footprint of the principle residence, and the proposed area of the laneway house Pre-application review & clearance from Engineering Services A site plan with all relevant setback dimensions” All relevant schematic drawings delineating the main features, shape and size of the proposed projectOther
Make sure to apply with the Homeowner Protection Office once your application is ready to submit. This is in order to obtain a new house warrantee.
Twitter
Facebook
