A Deep Dive into LOT ELIGIBILITY, OWNERSHIP, and LOT COVERAGE.
Greetings, future laneway homeowners and enthusiasts! Today, we embark on a monumental journey into the world of laneway living in Burnaby. As the allure of these charming homes grows, so does the need for comprehensive information. In this extensive blog post, we'll dissect the intricacies of LOT ELIGIBILITY, delve into the legal tapestry of OWNERSHIP, and navigate the landscape of LOT COVERAGE, ensuring you're well-equipped for your laneway adventure.
LOT ELIGIBILITY - Paving the Path for Laneway Homes
Zoning Criteria
As you set your sights on adding a laneway home to your property, the first checkpoint is ensuring eligibility based on zoning criteria.
1.1.1 Zoning Compatibility
Burnaby's zoning regulations play a pivotal role in determining the feasibility of laneway homes. Your property must reside in zones that permit single-family homes. These zones include R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R9, R10, R11, R12, and RM6 Districts.
1.1.2 Existing Single-Family Home
The foundation for laneway living begins with a single-family home already gracing your property. Additionally, the primary residence can include a secondary suite, adding to the potential for multifaceted living spaces.
1.1.3 Rear Yard Access
A key requirement for laneway eligibility is the presence of an open lane or local street access to the rear yard. This not only ensures practical access but also contributes to the aesthetic integration of laneway homes into the neighborhood.
1.1.4 Proximity to Streams
For lots near streams, additional considerations and assessments for feasibility come into play. It's essential to navigate these potential challenges to ensure compliance with local regulations.
1.1.5 Access from Two Streets
Properties with access from two streets, lacking a designated lane, require approval from the Engineering Department. Examples include corner lots and double-fronted lots, adding a layer of complexity to the eligibility process.
Section 1.2: Additional Considerations
To ensure a smooth journey into laneway living, it's crucial to be aware of additional considerations that might impact your eligibility
1.2.1 Intersection Safety:
For properties near an intersection of a street and lane, maintaining clear sightlines is imperative for safety reasons. Refer to Burnaby Zoning Bylaw Section 6.13 for more information on intersection safety guidelines.
OWNERSHIP - Navigating the Legal Landscape
Title Restrictions
Now that your property meets the eligibility criteria, understanding the legal aspects of ownership is paramount to proceeding with confidence.
2.1.1 Single Title Requirement
Laneway homes must remain under a single title, emphasizing their integration with the primary residence. The prohibition of stratification or subdivision ensures a cohesive property structure.
2.1.2 Rental Regulations
While laneway homes can serve as long-term rental units, short-term rentals (fewer than 30 days) are strictly prohibited. This regulation aims to maintain the residential character of neighborhoods and prevent disruptions caused by frequent turnovers.
2.1.3 Owner Residence
Owners are not obligated to reside on the property with a laneway home. However, if the owner chooses to live off-site, an annual house rental business license becomes a requisite, adding a layer of administrative compliance to the ownership landscape.
Investment and Rental Opportunities
Understanding the nuances of laneway ownership opens up avenues for investment and rental opportunities.
"Exploring the potential for long-term rental income, while abiding by the regulations, can transform your laneway home into a valuable asset."
LOT COVERAGE - Striking the Right Balance
Maximum Lot Coverage
With eligibility confirmed and legal considerations understood, attention turns to the physical aspects of lot coverage, striking a harmonious balance between structures and open spaces.
3.1.1 45% Lot Coverage Limit
The total lot coverage for a property with a laneway home is capped at 45%. This includes the footprints of all structures, encompassing both the laneway home and the main residence. Adhering to this limit ensures an optimal blend of living spaces and open areas.
3.1.2 Impervious Surfaces
Beyond the structures, the maximum impervious surfaces on a property with a laneway home are limited to 70%. These surfaces include sidewalks, driveways, and parking areas constructed with concrete or asphalt. Striking this balance mitigates water runoff-related issues, contributing to environmental sustainability.
Section 3.2: Design Considerations
As you plan the layout of your laneway home, several design considerations come into play:
3.2.1 Rear Yard Placement
Laneway homes must be situated in the rear yard, fostering a sense of privacy and harmonious integration with the main residence. On double-fronted lots lacking a rear yard, thoughtful placement behind the principal dwelling is crucial for achieving a balanced architectural composition.
3.2.2 Setbacks
Minimum setbacks from various property lines and structures ensure a well-planned and visually appealing laneway home. Setbacks for laneway homes include:
To lane: 1.2 meters (3.94 feet)
To side property line: 1.2 meters (3.94 feet)
To principal dwelling and other accessory structures: 2.4 meters (7.87 feet)
3.2.3 Corner Lot Considerations
On corner lots, defining the rear yard as the area furthest from the front property line becomes crucial. Maintaining the same minimum side yard setback from the flanking street for the laneway home as that of the principal dwelling ensures a cohesive streetscape.
3.2.4 Intersection Safety Measures
If a laneway home lacks sprinklers, it must be located within 45 meters (148 feet) of a lot line abutting a road. This safety measure ensures quick response times in case of emergencies, contributing to the overall well-being of the community.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You've navigated the intricate landscape of LOT ELIGIBILITY, OWNERSHIP, and LOT COVERAGE in Burnaby. Armed with this comprehensive knowledge, you're well-prepared to embark on the exciting journey of adding a laneway home to your property.
In this extensive exploration, we've covered zoning criteria, legal aspects of ownership, and physical considerations for lot coverage. Your laneway home isn't just a structure; it's a harmonious addition to Burnaby's architectural tapestry, contributing to the city's vibrant and evolving landscape.
For those ready to take the next steps, remember to refer to Burnaby Zoning Bylaw Section 6.13 for more detailed information. Whether you're enhancing your property, exploring rental opportunities, or embracing a new chapter of living, the charm of laneway homes awaits you!
Source and credits: https://www.burnaby.ca/sites/default/files/acquiadam/2023-09/How-To-Guide-Laneway-Homes.pdf
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