*** Update - March 2013 ***  
The City of Vancouver has proposed a set of updates for the lane house bylaw. See our page LWH 2.0

What's a lane house?

  • A small secondary residence or studio, typically located at the rear of an existing home
  • Often replaces the existing garage or parking area
  • If replacing a garage, new parking requirements may vary by lot size, and municipality

What are the benefits?

  • A secondary residence for family members
  • A rental suite to generate additional income from your existing property
  • Add to your property value
  • Improve the quality of your lane, and help reduce your community's environmental impact

Can I build one?

  • Your lot is at least 33' wide
  • You live in a community that allows lane houses or Accesory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
    • Vancouver (RS-1,RS-5)
    • Maple Ridge
    • City of North Vancouver
  • Typically not allowed to be a separate strata unit