Density Bonusing

The Local Government Act allows municipalities in British Columbia to permit bonus density in their zoning in exchange for the provision of amenities or affordable housing. This means that in designated zones, a developer can build to higher density if a community amenity contribution is provided to the municipality.

In New Westminster, density bonusing revenues will be allocated in the following way: 30% towards affordable housing, 10% towards child care, and 60% towards general amenities (i.e., civic facilities, park space, public art, etc.).

Since 2007, staff have been working on creating a density bonusing system for the City. On October 27, 2008, Council approved a two phase density bonusing system: Phase 1 includes all eligible townhouse and low rise residential apartment zones; Phase 2 includes all eligible mixed-use low rise and high rise apartment zones.

Phase 1 map 
Phase 2 map

On June 14, 2010, Council gave final adoption to the Phase 1 zoning amendments (see link for May 17, 2010 Report below for more information).

• Background information
• Map & comparison table
• On the ground examples

Related documents

May 17, 2010 Report - Introduction of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No.7392, 2010 to include bonus density provisions in all Phase 1 eligible zones.

March 15, 2010 Policy Report - OCP amendment proposal, density valuation, and next steps for Phase 1.

October 5, 2009 Policy Report – Amenity allocation recommendations and Phase 1 density bonus zoning amendments

October 27, 2008 Policy Report - Implementation recommendations

Density Bonusing Report - Coriolis Consulting Corp.

June 23, 2008 Policy Report - Update on the first round of consultation, highlighting guiding principles and outlining next steps

March 31, 2008 Policy Report - Progress Report on potential locations and value of bonus density

Density Bonusing FAQs