Vancouver Offering Rezoning Incentive to Promote Mass Timber Construction

Vancouver, British Columbia, is increasing its commitment to sustainable construction with a new set of incentives aimed at promoting mass timber construction, Construction Canada reported (3-22-24). The incentives, developed in collaboration with stakeholders, will be closely monitored and adjusted based on real-world feedback over the next 24 months.

Among these benefits is a new rezoning incentive that will offer additional height and floor area for mass timber buildings in the following types of buildings:

• Buildings in areas that allow 8–11 stories can qualify for two additional stories.
• Buildings in areas that allow 12 or more stories can qualify for three additional stories.

A new incentive in the Zoning & Development By-law will see an increase in the permitted height for mass timber, along with additional support at the pre-application stage.

Commenting on the changes, Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim said:

“Mass timber is the building material of the future, and we’re thrilled that Vancouver and BC are at the forefront of this movement. It’s a game-changer, offering significant environmental benefits by reducing emissions compared to typical concrete buildings. It’s not only affordable and safe but stands strong against fires and earthquakes. Embracing eco-friendly materials like mass timber isn’t just responsible—it’s a boost for our local economy, creating jobs right here in our community.”

The move is part of Vancouver’s aim to cut embodied carbon emissions in construction materials by 40% by 2030, while fostering local economic growth and sustainable practices, Construction Canada reported.