within existing multi-family buildings Michelle McGuire July 15, - - PowerPoint PPT Presentation

Michelle McGuire

Conversion of common areas within existing multi-family buildings

July 15, 2019

Presentation Outline

2

1. Enquiry Proposals 2. Proposed Zoning Amendment 3. Proposed Application Process

CONVERSION OF COMMON AREAS WITHIN EXISTING MULTI-FAMILY BUILDINGS

CONVERSION OF COMMON AREAS WITHIN EXISTING MULTI-FAMILY BUILDINGS

Enquiry Proposals

• Enquiries have been received from 5 strata buildings

regarding the conversion of common recreation areas into dwelling units.

• The subject buildings are older, in need of repair

and the strata’s are looking for ways to increase longevity of the buildings.

• All of the subject buildings are at (or near) the

maximum floor area permitted under zoning.

CONVERSION OF COMMON AREAS WITHIN EXISTING MULTI-FAMILY BUILDINGS

Proposed Zoning Amendment

• Allow an exemption to the floor area calculation for

conversion of underutilized common areas within existing multi-family buildings.

• Applicable to apartment buildings built prior to the

year 2000 in the Multiple Dwelling zones (RM1- RM5).

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At the June 24, 2019 Council meeting:

• 1st reading of proposed amendment to allow an exemption

to FAR calculation for common recreation rooms that are converted into dwelling units.

• Question posed by Council if the proposed amendment for

“common recreation rooms” was broad enough to include

• ther common areas within a building.

In response:

• Staff reviewed relevant enquires and are proposing

modified by-laws to allow further flexibility to allow conversion of common space like indoor swimming pools and residential lobbies.

Update

CONVERSION OF COMMON RECREATION ROOMS WITHIN EXISTING MULTI-FAMILY BUILDINGS

• Amendment to the Development Procedures Bylaw to

enable the Director delegated authority to review strata plan amendments

• Strata approval required
• Notice of consideration of the application would be

required within 50 metres of the subject building.

• Confirmation of parking with variances considered

case by case

• Any external changes would be assessed against the

DP guidelines for the area (e.g. windows).

• New units would need to demonstrate compliance with

the BC Building Code.

Proposed Application Process

• Staff support the proposed amendments:
• no impact to form and character
• repurposes underutilized space
• incentivizes retention of existing aging buildings
• provides for additional affordable dwelling units

close to amenities and transit

• could allow for aging in place

Analysis

CONVERSION OF COMMON RECREATION ROOMS WITHIN EXISTING MULTI-FAMILY BUILDINGS

Thank You! Questions?

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