Secondary Suites, Accessory Dwelling Units, and Multi-Unit Flex-Units
The installation of a secondary suite in a new or existing single unit dwelling, the construction of an Accessory Dwelling Unit (sometimes known as a ‘carriage house’), and multi-unit flex units are permitted by the District of Squamish, subject to both the District of Squamish Zoning Bylaw and the British Columbia Building Code (BCBC).
Secondary Suites
A secondary suite is defined in the Zoning Bylaw as, ‘a second, self-contained dwelling unit with private access, its own kitchen and bathroom, and located within a principal dwelling unit.’
The Zoning Bylaw currently permits secondary suites in all zones that permit a single-unit dwelling, and includes the following requirements (from Section 4.5 of the Zoning Bylaw):
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
The Zoning Bylaw also permits accessory dwelling units (ADU) in all zones that permit a single-unit dwelling. The Zoning Bylaw defines an ADU as ‘a dwelling unit that is ancillary to- and detached from- the principal dwelling unit and is located either above an accessory building or at grade. Includes, but is not limited to, coach houses, carriage houses, and laneway houses.’
The following requirements apply to ADUs:
Multi-Unit Flex Unit
Multi-Unit Flex Units are a new form of housing permitted in certain zones within the District of Squamish. Flex units are rental suites permitted in two-unit dwellings and townhomes, as long as they meet BC Building Code requirements for fire separation and the following Zoning requirements:
A secondary suite is permitted within a single-unit dwelling or house located in a zone that permits a single-unit dwelling. For clarity, secondary suites are not permitted in two-unit (duplex) dwellings and only one secondary suite is permitted PER lot.
Accessory Dwelling Units are permitted on lots containing a single-unit dwelling and duplexes located in zones that permit a single-unit dwelling. One ADU is permitted per lot.
ADUs may be used for temporary living accommodation during the construction of a principal building on the same lot.
Multi-Unit Flex Units are permitted in duplexes and townhomes, if they can meet the BCBC and provide an additional parking stall. One flex unit is permitted per strata title.
Yes, secondary suites and ADUs require private access.
It is up to the Owner or Owner’s Agent to verify that a suite has been granted Occupancy from the District. Even if an Owner is being billed for Utilities for two units, it does not necessarily mean that all other zoning and building requirements have been met. If in doubt, contact the District’s Building Department to request this information.
The District charges utilities based on a per unit dwelling basis. If you add an additional unit to your property/dwelling, the fees will reflect the additional unit.
If a secondary suite or an ADU is in place, the District of Squamish does bill for the added utility cost associated with the additional dwelling unit. If you are not planning on using the suite for its intended purpose, decommissioning the suite is an option.
Secondary Suites, ADUs, and Flex Units must form a single real estate entity with the principal dwelling. No strata titling is permitted at this time.
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