Vancouver Extends Effort to Address Housing Shortage
In an effort to expand housing options and improve affordability, the Vancouver City Council has voted to extend its emergency housing ordinance through April. Originally adopted in October 2024, the measure streamlines the approval process for duplexes, cottages and other middle-income housing types that fill the gap between traditional single-family homes and large multifamily developments.
The ordinance allows up to two accessory dwelling units on a single-family lot and simplifies the process for building duplexes in areas once reserved for standalone homes. It also supports owner-occupied cottage clusters, where several smaller homes are grouped around shared open spaces. These designs help create more connected, community-focused neighborhoods while providing attainable housing options for local residents.
The goal of the extension is clear: to speed up the creation of smaller, more affordable homes across Vancouver. Meeting the state’s long-term housing target of 1.1 million new homes by 2044 will require significant growth in Clark County, where projections call for more than 100,000 additional units over the next two decades.
Vancouver’s planning department has already received several development applications under the ordinance, and more are expected in the coming months. City officials view this as a positive step toward meeting demand and encouraging innovation in housing design.
For buyers and investors, these changes may open the door to new opportunities in the months ahead. More flexible zoning and streamlined approvals could mean an increase in smaller-scale developments that blend well within existing neighborhoods.
Whether you are thinking about buying, selling or exploring investment opportunities, now is a great time to stay informed! Reach out anytime and let’s talk about how to make the most of Vancouver’s evolving market.
