A modern two-story house with large windows, a balcony on the top floor, and stairs leading to the front doors, surrounded by trees and a well-maintained lawn during twilight.

Duplexes in Vancouver

What are some requirements for building a duplex in Vancouver?

In September 2018, the City of Vancouver rezoned approximately 67,000 lots (99% of all single family properties in Vancouver) to allow duplexes to be constructed on lots which were previously only zoned for single family houses.

Duplexes are permitted in the following zones:

  • RS-1, RS-1A, RS-1B, RS-2, RS-5, RS-6, RS-7

  • RT-5, RT-5N, RT-11, RT-11N

  • RM-7, RM-7N, RM-7AN, RM-8, RM-8A, RM-8N, RM-8AN

The below zoning map outlines the areas in Vancouver where duplexes are permitted outright. 

Map of Vancouver showing RS zones with different options to build a duplex, with areas marked in yellow, orange, red, and blue, streets, parks, and a legend explaining the zones.

This approval applies for new construction only and the resulting homes can be strata-titled, which means each duplex can be sold independently of the other, unlike laneway homes which cannot be sold separate from the main house. 

Duplexes cannot be built in conjunction with a laneway home.  However, secondary suites are allowed or required depending on the size of the lot.  Each duplex must contain at least 2 bedrooms.

How can I get started?

Please look for more information on our contact.  We are happy to meet with you to discuss your needs and answer all your questions, so please feel free to contact us at any time.