Building a Crawlspace in Vancouver

In Oct 2023, the City of Vancouver modified their by-laws regarding living accommodations below finished grade, height restrictions, and the use of space for crawlspaces.

In Vancouver, the construction of a crawlspace beneath a building is subject to specific regulations outlined in the city's Zoning and Development By-law. Understanding these guidelines is essential for homeowners or prospective buyers planning to increase their liveable space.

Understanding Crawlspaces in Vancouver

A crawlspace is an area beneath a building, typically with a height of less than 1.8 meters (5.9 feet), providing access to plumbing, electrical systems, and ventilation. It's distinct from a full basement, which offers more headroom and usable space.

Zoning and Development By-law Considerations for Building a Crawlspace

The Zoning and Development By-law 3575 regulates land use and development in Vancouver. While the by-law doesn't explicitly mention crawlspaces, several sections are relevant:

• Floor Area Exclusions: Certain areas, including those below finished grade with a ceiling height not exceeding 1.5 meters, may be excluded from floor area calculations. This exclusion can apply to crawlspaces, provided they meet specific criteria.

• Living Accommodation Below Finished Grade: For multiple dwellings, living spaces below finished grade are permitted if the floor is no more than 0.8 meters below the adjoining ground level. According to the City’s by-laws, the Director of Planning may allow an increase to 1.2 meters, subject to applicable policies and guidelines.

• Single family and single family with suite properties cannot have more than 60% floor space ratio (FSR): If a homeowner is looking to excavate a residential property that is currently occupying 60% or more of the square footage then approval from the director of planning will be needed to increase the FSR to a maximum of 65%, which may be rejected by the city.

Permitting Process for Building a Crawlspace

To build a crawlspace in Vancouver, follow these steps:

1. Determine Zoning District: Identify your property's zoning to understand applicable regulations.

2. Consult the District Schedule: Review the specific regulations for your zoning district, focusing on floor area exclusions and living accommodation below finished grade.

3. Obtain a Building Permit: After securing a development permit, apply for a building permit to commence construction.

Key Considerations

• Height Restrictions: Ensure the crawlspace's height complies with by-law limits to qualify for floor area exclusions.

• Use of Space: The crawlspace must not be used for living purposes to maintain its status as an excluded area.

• Compliance with Building Code: Adhere to the British Columbia Building Code for structural and safety standards.

Building a crawlspace in Vancouver is permissible under specific conditions set by the Zoning and Development By-law. By thoroughly understanding and complying with these regulations, you can ensure your project meets all legal requirements.

It is important to note that these regulations only apply to the City of Vancouver. Other municipalities, like Burnaby, North Vancouver, Richmond, and Langley, etc. are not affected by these changes. However, we recommend double-checking with your City’s by-laws prior to making a purchase or building decision. Contact us to get started on your crawlspace-lowering project in these areas: https://www.wallaceunderpinning.com/contact

Learn more about the costs and process of crawlspace reclamation in our blog https://www.wallaceunderpinning.com/post/crawl-space-reclamation-what-does-it-cost