Development in Burnaby: Rental Replacement & Livable City Strategy

Written By Dorien van Tol

Burnaby has become one of the most active development markets in Metro Vancouver. Its approach focuses on high-density growth, transit-oriented development, and the protection of existing rental housing.

For developers, Burnaby offers significant opportunity, but also clear expectations around rental replacement and long-term planning.

Burnaby’s Growth Strategy

Burnaby’s Livable City Strategy focuses on concentrating density in key town centres while preserving established neighbourhoods.

Key Areas of Growth

  • Metrotown

  • Brentwood

  • Lougheed

  • Edmonds

These areas support high-density residential and mixed-use projects, often near rapid transit.

Rental Replacement Requirements

One of the defining features of development in Burnaby is its rental replacement policy.

Projects that redevelop existing rental housing are required to replace those units, often on a one-for-one basis.

What This Means

  • Replacement of existing rental units

  • Similar unit sizes and bedroom counts

  • Tenant relocation and right of return

These requirements have a direct impact on project feasibility and design.

High-Density Development Guidelines

Burnaby supports high-density development, particularly in designated growth areas.

Typical Characteristics

  • High-rise residential towers

  • Mixed-use podium developments

  • Integration with transit infrastructure

Density is generally supported, but projects must meet design and livability standards.

Town Centre Development

Town centres are the focus of Burnaby’s growth strategy.

These areas are designed to support complete communities with housing, retail, and public amenities.

Key Considerations

  • Transit access

  • Public realm improvements

  • Community amenities

Projects within town centres are often prioritized in the approvals process.

Navigating Approvals in Burnaby

Burnaby’s approval process is structured but can be complex, particularly for larger projects.

Understanding how rezoning, rental replacement, and design requirements interact is critical.

For more on approvals, see:
How the Development Approval Process Works in BC

Key Risks and Opportunities

Opportunities

  • Strong support for density

  • Transit-oriented development

  • Clear long-term planning framework

Risks

  • Rental replacement requirements

  • Increased project costs

  • Design and policy constraints

Conclusion

Burnaby offers a clear path for growth, particularly in high-density and transit-oriented development.

Projects that account for rental replacement and align with town centre planning are well-positioned to succeed.

Dorien van Tol
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Development in Vancouver: Density, Housing Policy, and the Broadway Plan