WCEL > Issues > Urban Growth and Development > Smart Bylaws Guide > Part 5 > Secondary Suites > Port Coquitlam

Smart Bylaws Guide – Secondary Suites – Port Coquitlam

After conducting a survey of homeowners and holding public meetings to determine that a majority of citizens accepted suites in the community, Port Coquitlam legalized secondary suites located in all RS zoned (single family) neighbourhoods that do not have covenants on title, and in the A-1 agriculture zone. One suite is allowed in all single family residences up to 90 square metres in size or 40 percent of the habitable space. In an effort to make suites visible and accessible, the City does not require additional parking, inspections, or owner-occupation. While all new secondary suites must be built to Building Code standards, the City assumes that existing suites are built to Code and provides residents with information on upgrading suites. The City’s policy decision not to inspect a suite unless a complaint is received attracts no additional liability to the municipality. It will enforce the Code for duplexes that are converted to fourplexes. Owners are billed an annual utility fee of $582. The City has found no noticeable impact, such as increase in complaints or parking problems, from the legalization of secondary suites. The program has removed the stigma against suites, and residents who live in suites are participating more actively in City programs such as dog licensing.

Port Coquitlam Zoning Bylaw No. 2240 Section 513, p.28

Secondary Suites Procedures Brochure

Definition - Secondary Suite means an accessory dwelling unit located within a one-family residential building.

For More Information

Sharon Folkes, Planner (604) 927-5244, FolkesS@city.port-coquitlam.BC.CA