NORTH VANCOUVER, British Columbia - The city of North Vancouver has adopted a zoning bylaw amendment that will give new buildings a density bonus in return for energy-efficient design. The new zoning bylaw does not increase the allowable density on a property. Rather, it permits additional floor area over a base threshold of permitted density, up to the official community plan maximums. In turn, developers must meet the energy performance requirements of American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Standard 90.1-2007.

Presently, developers receive density bonuses through provision of parking and other features; however, effective Jan. 1 2011, Bylaw 8097 will ensure that ASHRAE’s energy conservation standard must be met. This zoning amendment is expected to impact approximately 95 percent of new buildings, except residential structures which are four stories and under.

Publication date: 11/15/2010