M8 Zoning in Burnaby — Advanced Technology Research District
M8 — Advanced Technology Research District is a industrial zoning district in the City of Burnaby. This District provides for the accommodation of uses that incorporate advanced scientific or technological research and may have a small accessory manufacturing component that does not conflict with any neighbouring residential area; and contains specific regulations applicable to the Willingdon research site known as Discovery Place.
On a typical M8-zoned lot you can expect a maximum height of 15 m (4 storeys) and site coverage up to 40%. Exact figures vary with lot size, frontage, and form of development — look up your specific address to confirm.
Intent of the M8 district
This District provides for the accommodation of uses that incorporate advanced scientific or technological research and may have a small accessory manufacturing component that does not conflict with any neighbouring residential area; and contains specific regulations applicable to the Willingdon research site known as Discovery Place.
M8 at a glance
| Max height | 15 m |
|---|---|
| Max storeys (by right) | 4 |
| Site coverage | 40% |
| Zone category | Industrial |
Density tiers in M8
| Tier | Min lot area | Max units | FSR | Max height |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced Technology Research District | 930 m² | — | — | 15 m |
Permitted uses in M8
- Scientific/Technological Research (computer, electronic, electrical, communications, chemical, pharmaceutical, medicinal)
- Business/Professional Offices (M8a only)
- Accessory Manufacturing/Assembly of related items
- Printing/Publishing/Photocopying (related to principal use)
- Display/Storage/Retail of related goods produced on premises
- Accessory Buildings/Uses
M8 zoning FAQ
What is M8 zoning in Burnaby?
M8 (Advanced Technology Research District) is a industrial zoning district in the City of Burnaby. This District provides for the accommodation of uses that incorporate advanced scientific or technological research and may have a small accessory manufacturing component that does not conflict with any neighbouring residential area; and contains specific regulations applicable to the Willingdon research site known as Discovery Place.
What can you build on M8-zoned land in Burnaby?
Permitted uses in M8 include Scientific/Technological Research (computer, electronic, electrical, communications, chemical, pharmaceutical, medicinal), Business/Professional Offices (M8a only), Accessory Manufacturing/Assembly of related items, Printing/Publishing/Photocopying (related to principal use), Display/Storage/Retail of related goods produced on premises, among others. Permitted uses are allowed outright; conditional uses may require Development Permit Board approval.
How tall can a building be in M8?
M8 permits a maximum building height of 15 m, generally about 4 storeys. Height can be affected by view corridors, setbacks, and the specific form of development.
Other industrial zones in Burnaby
- E1 — Employment District
- I1 — Industrial District
- I1a — Industrial District
- M1 — Manufacturing District
- M2 — General Industrial District
- M3 — Heavy Industrial District
- M4 — Special Industrial
- M5 — Light Industrial District
Look up a specific address in Burnaby
Source: official Burnaby zoning bylaw (PDF) · updated August 2026