R1 Zoning in Burnaby - SSMUH – 5 to 6 Units (Frequent Transit Network Area only)
Tracked amendment July 1, 2026: Burnaby Zoning Bylaw 2026 (No. 14815) replaces the 1965 rules. Burnaby Zoning Bylaw 2026, Bylaw No. 14815. See Burnaby zoning changes
R1: SSMUH – 5 to 6 Units (Frequent Transit Network Area only) is a residential zoning district in the City of Burnaby. The intent of this district is to support a range of primarily ground-oriented housing, including single-family, duplex, multiplex, and rowhouse dwellings, while providing opportunities for limited neighbourhood-serving commercial uses.
On a typical R1-zoned lot you can expect up to 6 dwelling units, a maximum height of 10 m (3 storeys), and site coverage up to 55%. Exact figures vary with lot size, frontage, and form of development, so look up your specific address to confirm.
Alongside housing, R1 also lists boarding, lodging, and Child Care Facilities among its permitted uses.
Intent of the R1 district
The intent of this district is to support a range of primarily ground-oriented housing, including single-family, duplex, multiplex, and rowhouse dwellings, while providing opportunities for limited neighbourhood-serving commercial uses.
R1 at a glance
| Max dwelling units | 6 |
|---|---|
| Max height | 10 m |
| Max storeys (by right) | 3 |
| Site coverage | 55% |
| Zone category | Residential |
Density tiers in R1
| Tier | Min lot area | Max units | Base FSR | Bonus FSR | Max height |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rowhouse Dwellings – 1 to 3 Units | - | 3 | - | - | 10 m |
| SSMUH – 1 to 2 Units | - | 2 | - | - | 10 m |
| SSMUH – 3 to 4 Units | - | 4 | - | - | 10 m |
| SSMUH – 5 to 6 Units (Frequent Transit Network Area only) | 281 m² | 6 | - | - | 10 m |
Permitted uses in R1
- Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing
- Rowhouse Dwellings
- Boarding
- Lodging
- Group Home
- Support Housing
- Child Care Facilities
- Boarding Use
- Home Occupation
- Urban Agriculture
- Accessory Buildings
- Structures
R1 zoning FAQ
What is R1 zoning in Burnaby?
R1 (SSMUH – 5 to 6 Units (Frequent Transit Network Area only)) is a residential zoning district in the City of Burnaby. The intent of this district is to support a range of primarily ground-oriented housing, including single-family, duplex, multiplex, and rowhouse dwellings, while providing opportunities for limited neighbourhood-serving commercial uses.
What can you build on R1-zoned land in Burnaby?
Permitted uses in R1 include Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing, Rowhouse Dwellings, Boarding, Lodging, Group Home, among others. Permitted uses are allowed outright; conditional uses may require Development Permit Board approval.
How tall can a building be in R1?
R1 permits a maximum building height of 10 m, generally about 3 storeys. Height can be affected by view corridors, setbacks, and the specific form of development.
How many units are allowed in R1 zoning?
R1 allows up to 6 dwelling units on an eligible lot. Under the Province's Bill 44 Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing rules, most standard residential lots in Burnaby now permit multiple units outright. The exact number depends on lot size and whether rental tenure is secured.
Other residential zones in Burnaby
- R2 - Townhouse District
- R2r - Townhouse District – Rental
- R3 - Low-Rise Apartment 1
- R3r - Low-Rise Apartment 1 – Rental
- R4 - Low-Rise Apartment 2
- R4r - Low-Rise Apartment 2 – Rental
- R5 - Mid-Rise Apartment 1
- R6 - Mid-Rise Apartment 2
Look up a specific address in Burnaby
Source: official Burnaby zoning bylaw (PDF) · updated October 2026