Inside Vancouver's Digital Permitting Transformation

The Permitting Improvement Program

Beyond the headline 3-3-3-1 framework, Vancouver has implemented a comprehensive "Permitting Improvement Program" that addresses the entire development approval ecosystem. This strategic initiative recognizes that achieving ambitious timeline targets requires fundamental changes to both technology infrastructure and regulatory frameworks.

Process Modernization and Digitization

Streamlined Development-Building Permit

Starting in early 2025, Vancouver merged the previously sequential development and building permit processes for qualifying multiplex applications. This consolidation represents a fundamental rethinking of the approval workflow, reducing redundancy and eliminating handoff delays. The combined process applies to multiplexes with up to four dwelling units and no more than two units per building, cutting processing times by approximately 50%.

Regulatory and Policy Reforms

Vancouver has systematically eliminated regulatory requirements that created delays without meaningfully improving development outcomes. These reforms demonstrate a evidence-based approach to regulation, prioritizing requirements that genuinely protect public interests while removing bureaucratic friction.

Eliminated Requirements

• Traffic Impact Studies: No longer required for most development permit applications, saving significant time and consultant costs
• Rainwater Management Plans: Removed for mid-to-large scale buildings, eliminating an average 56-week delay
• Horizontal Angle of Daylight: Daylight requirements removed to simplify compliance
• Acoustic Reports: No longer mandatory for residential developments
• Street Use Permits: Not required for renovations under $250,000 unless temporary dumpsters are needed

Zoning Simplification

In a landmark reform, Vancouver consolidated nine distinct residential zones into a single "Residential Inclusive" zone (R1-1). This new zone allows up to six strata units or eight secured rental units on a standard lot, dramatically simplifying the development process and eliminating confusion about allowable uses.

Parking and Design Flexibility

Vancouver has eliminated parking minimum requirements for new developments in transit-accessible areas, removing a significant barrier to housing affordability. Design guidelines have similarly been relaxed, allowing architects and developers greater flexibility to respond to site-specific conditions and market needs.

Legislative Support: Bill 18

Provincial legislation (Vancouver Charter Amendment Act No. 2, 2024) has reinforced Vancouver's streamlining efforts with several key mandates:

• Requirement to adopt a city-wide Official Development Plan (ODP) by June 30, 2026
• Phasing out of one-off public hearings for eligible rezonings
• Clearer timelines and accountability for development approvals

Measurable Results

Vancouver's comprehensive approach is delivering tangible improvements across multiple permit types:

The city continues to extend these improvements to mid-rise and high-rise projects, recognizing that complex developments require sustained attention to process optimization and digital tool development.