Kelowna zones properties for infill, unveils pre-approved multi-unit designs

The City of Kelowna is taking action to develop more housing opportunities.

Over 1,300 lots throughout the city’s core area were rezoned and made eligible for “fast-track” development approvals with four- to six-units permitted per property.

The city said completed development and building permit applications for the lots, now deemed MF1-zoned multi-family, can be processed and approved within 10 business days when working with a pre-approved, standardized, multi-plex design.

“Over time, the fast-track program has the potential to deliver up to 7,000 new homes and help us meet the demand for housing in our city, especially for more affordable and diverse housing options,” James Moore, Kelowna’s Housing Policy & Programs Department Manager, said.

“Recent zoning changes mean that homeowners have more options for what they can build on their lots, which can provide more options for home seekers, but also more options for homeowners to accommodate their own needs on their current property.”

Kelowna also unveiled four pre-approved infill designed housing models, three of which were winners of the city’s 2022 Infill Challenge, which can be accessed by property owners and developers.

“Simplifying development processes to allow more homes – in more places – faster than before can help address our housing shortage, improve the livability and vibrancy of neighbourhoods, and support the city’s goals of reducing urban sprawl and greenhouse gas emissions,” Moore said.

“While this is not the only solution, and all levels of government need to keep collaborating on housing, these actions can have a significant impact on tackling some of our community’s biggest challenges.”

Pre-approved infill housing designs (images courtesy of the City of Kelowna)

Kelowna’s infill fast-track program is being supported in part by a $31.5-million Housing Accelerator Fund grant, which was provided by the Government of Canada and administered by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.

Infill housing through permitting more carriage houses, multi-plexes and suites, aligns with the housing goals outlined in Kelowna’s 2040 Official Community Plan.

More information on the infill program, eligibility criteria and application process can be found at the city’s website.