Vancouver’s higher buildings policy, which guides the development of towers that exceed permitted zoned heights, was last reviewed in 2011
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Vancouver city officials are asking if they can take you higher.
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For the first time in 15 years, the city is reviewing its higher buildings policy to determine whether buildings in downtown Vancouver should be permitted to be built even taller and seeking feedback from residents.
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The policy, which guides the development of towers that exceed zoned heights, was established in 1997 and last reviewed in 2011. Only six buildings have been constructed under the policy in the nearly 30 years since it was enacted, though eight other projects have been approved but not yet constructed.
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“Vancouver has significantly grown and changed over the last 15 years, and market interest in taller buildings has increased,” reads a statement shared by the city.
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“The city is now reviewing the policy to ensure it reflects current needs and priorities, and provides clear, up-to-date guidance for future development proposals.”
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The policy outlines allowances for maximum height, where such buildings could be located, expectations for the architectural design, sustainability requirements, heritage accommodations, and the public benefits that must be incorporated.
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“A key focus of the policy review is to ensure any changes to building heights are appropriate for Vancouver’s unique context as a city with a deep connection to nature,” said the statement.
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In recent years, council had also established guidelines on protecting the city’s public view cones which they say “will be maintained and continue to guide where higher buildings may be considered.”
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To share feedback, residents are invited to read the summary and share their feedback on an online survey throughout the month of May or visit at exhibit at the Vancouver Lookout for free on May 6 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or May 9 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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The public input will help shape the city’s approach to review the policy and determining any possible changes or updates.
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A summary of the higher buildings policy and the continuing review is available at shapeyourcity.ca/higher-buildings.
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