What is a secondary suite?

A secondary suite is a self-contained residential unit within a home. They can be located in a basement of a dwelling or attached at ground level to the dwelling. The CVRD zoning bylaws for each electoral area regulates the maximum size of the secondary suite and do vary by electoral area. Always consider the specific zone, general regulations and definitions when determining eligibility for a secondary suite. To find out if the zoning allows a secondary suite on a property, first check the specific zone in the zoning bylaw, then confirm the size of the property meets the minimum parcel size required depending on its level of servicing. Not sure what the zoning is? Check out our Web Map!

secondary suites


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1. What is zoning?
2. How do I read a zoning bylaw?
3. What is the Web Map and how do I use it?
4. Can my clients have an accessory dwelling unit?
5. Can my clients have a secondary suite in their home?
6. What is a Riparian Area?
7. What is subdivision?
8. Can my clients subdivide?
9. What is an accessory dwelling unit?
10. What is a secondary suite?
11. What is an Official Community Plan?
12. What is a Development Permit?
13. What is a Development Variance Permit?
14. What is an Official Community Plan (OCP) Amendment?
15. What is a Rezoning Application?
16. Can my clients have an Air B&B?
17. Can my clients cut down a tree (or trees), and do they need a permit?
18. Can my clients have chickens?
19. Can my clients live in their RV?
20. How do I know if a property is within the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR)?
21. Can my clients build a 'tiny home'?
22. What is an Easement, Covenant or Statutory Right of Way?