It’s true – laneway homes are on their way to Burnaby! And Smallworks is excited to apply our 16 years of experience designing and building laneway homes to our neighbouring communities.

We’ve compiled a list of burning questions to get you prepared for the exciting introduction of this new form of housing. Get a head start on your laneway home – read the FAQ’s below and get in touch to start planning today. 

Are laneway homes allowed in Burnaby?

The City of Burnaby has been in the process of introducing laneway homes as a new form of housing since 2019, when they first showed up in the Mayor’s Task Force on Community Housing. After several years of developing proposals and requesting input from citizens, the City is gearing up to begin accepting permits this fall. 

Am I eligible to build a laneway house in Burnaby?

First and foremost, your property must have a single-family home and access to the rear yard (from the back or side) through a lane or residential street. After that, there are a few other spatial considerations that depend on where your main house is placed on your lot. Fill out the contact form below and we will provide a free assessment of your property’s eligibility.

How big can a laneway house in Burnaby be? 

The maximum size of your laneway home is dictated by the size of your lot. As a general rule, the laneway home may be up to 20% of your lot area, and no larger than 1,507 sq. ft. Laneway homes can be as many as two stories and must facilitate one parking space. 

Can I sell my laneway house? 

At this time, laneway homes function the same as secondary suites and remain under the same title as the main dwelling. Laneway homes, however, can be rented out as long-term rental units.