What is Bill 44?
Bill 44 the Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing Act is a landmark BC legislation that came into effect in 2024. It requires municipalities across BC to permit higher-density residential development on land previously zoned for single-family homes. Most single-family and duplex lots across BC can now accommodate up to 4 residential units without any rezoning application, public hearing, or council vote. For property owners, this is historic. Land previously limited to one home can now legally support a fourplex or other multi-unit configurations dramatically increasing value and income potential.
Key Provision
Most lots in BC municipalities with a population over 5,000 are now eligible for up to 4 units as-of-right no rezoning, no public hearing, no council approval required.
Larger Lots
Lots that can accommodate a duplex plus additional units may qualify for up to 6 units, depending on lot size, frontage, and municipality.
Who It Applies To
Applies to municipalities across BC including Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, Richmond, Coquitlam, Langley, Abbotsford, Victoria, and Nanaimo, among many others.
What Changed
After Bill 44
- ✓ Up to 4 units permitted by default
- ✓ No rezoning application required
- ✓ No public hearing process
- ✓ No council vote needed
- ✓ Streamlined permit process
- ✓ Significant land value uplift now unlockable
Before Bill 44
- One home per lot — the law
- Adding units required full rezoning
- Rezoning required public hearings
- Council approval needed — not guaranteed
- Process took 12–24+ months
- Enormous land value left on the table
Eligibility
Does your property qualify?
01
Location
Your property must be in a BC municipality with a population over 5,000. This covers virtually all cities in the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley, and Vancouver Island.
04
Servicing
Your lot must have adequate water, sewer, and utility servicing. Most existing residential lots in established neighbourhoods meet this requirement.
02
Zoning
The lot must currently be zoned for single-family or duplex residential use. Most standard residential lots across BC fall into this category.
05
No Heritage Restrictions
Properties with heritage designations or certain covenants may have limitations. A site assessment will identify any constraints specific to your property.
03
Lot Size
There is no minimum lot size under Bill 44, but practical factors like setbacks and parking will determine how many units are feasible on your land.
06
Not Sure?
Book a free consultation with Build 44 and we'll assess your specific property zoning, lot size, servicing, and financial potential in one conversation.
What You Can Build
Your options under Bill 44.
4
Fourplex
Four self-contained units on a single lot. The most common configuration for maximizing density and return.
2+2
Duplex + Laneway
A front duplex paired with two laneway or carriage houses at the rear ideal for lots with lane access.
3+1
Triplex + Suite
A triplex with one additional secondary suite or laneway unit. Flexible configuration for varied lot shapes.
6
Six Units
Available on larger lots. Maximum density under Bill 44 requires specific lot size and configuration.
4
Units per lot
6
Units on larger lots
0
Rezoning required
2024
In effect since
Everything you need to know about Bill 44.
BC's Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing legislation is the most significant change to residential land use in decades and it creates a major opportunity for property owners across the province.
Ready to unlock your lot's potential?
Contact Build 44 Developments today for a comprehensive lot feasibility study and start your journey toward maximizing your property value.