Information Open House
Highlands Zoning Bylaw No. 100, 1998, Amendment No. 47, (Limits to Principal Dwelling Size) Bylaw No. 484, 2026
đź“… When: Thursday, June 4, 2026
🕔 Time: 5:00 – 7:00 pm
đź“Ť Where: Highlands Community Hall
729 Finlayson Arm Road, Highlands, BC
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is this bylaw about? This bylaw proposes to introduce a maximum size for houses (principal dwelling units) in certain zones where no limits currently exist.
Which properties would this impact? The bylaw would apply to properties in zones that allow residential use and do not already have a house size limit.
Why is the District proposing this change? Right now, some zones in the Highlands do not have any limit on house size. The proposed bylaw would:
- Help manage the size and scale of homes
- Reduce potential environmental impacts
- Bring the Highlands in line with common practice in other communities
- Support future regulations, such as for home-based businesses
What is the proposed size limit? The bylaw proposes a maximum size of 700m2 (7,535 sq. ft.) per house including garages and suites. This limit applies only in zones that currently have no maximum size.
Will this impact the size of an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) I can build on my property? This bylaw focuses on the maximum size of the principal dwelling (main house), not standalone accessory buildings. It is important to know:
- Accessory dwelling units, whether in the house or in an accessory building, are limited to 90m2 (969 sq. ft.)
- Secondary suites inside the main house count toward the 700m² (7,535 sq. ft.) limit
How are accessory buildings affected? They are not affected by this bylaw. In many of the affected zones, that means that the total combined floor area of all buildings and structures would be between 1,025m2 (11,033 sq. ft) and 1,225m2 (13,186 sq. ft).
What if I want to build a home larger than 700m2 (7,535 sq. ft.)? You can apply for a Development Variance Permit or apply to Rezone.
Will this affect existing homes? Most existing homes are expected to be accommodated as the limit is set sufficiently high to minimize impacts on current properties. Existing homes larger than 700m2 (7,535 sq. ft) with an Occupancy Permit can continue as "non-conforming structures." They would not be able to be made larger and, if damaged or destroyed by more than 75%, would have to meet the 700m2 (7,535 sq. ft) limit upon reconstruction.
Why is the limit set at 700 m² (7,535 sq. ft.)? The proposed limit:
- Reflects current building patterns in Highlands
- Helps account for properties where buildings have already been combined with the house
- Aims to minimize disruption while still introducing reasonable limits
How does this relate to home based business? Currently there is no limit on how much of a home can be used for a business. Setting a house size limit is a first step toward:
- Managing home-based business activities
- Supporting a future Business Licensing Program
What are the benefits of introducing house size limits? Potential benefits include:
- More consistent development across the community
- Reduced environmental impacts from very large homes/buildings
- Better long-term planningfor infrastructure andservices
- Supporting a balanced and healthy community
Will this affect property taxes? House size can influence assessed value and taxes. Generally, larger homes lead to higher taxes.
Why add “principal” to “dwelling unit” for some zones? To provide clarity across all zones and does not change any provisions in the zoning; it is a housekeeping amendment.
How can I provide feedback? There will be an opportunity to comment through a public hearing process before the bylaw is adopted. The date, time and how to participate are on the other side of this notice.