R14 Zoning in Nanaimo - Old City Low Density (Fourplex) Residential
Tracked amendment June 17, 2024: Nanaimo pre-zones most single-family and duplex lots for three or four units. Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 4500.223. See Nanaimo zoning changes
R14: Old City Low Density (Fourplex) Residential is a residential zoning district in the City of Nanaimo. This zone provides for residential rehabilitation and the development of small scale multiple family residential redevelopment that is consistent with the historical architectural style of the area.
On a typical R14-zoned lot you can expect up to 4 dwelling units, a maximum height of 7.75 m, and site coverage up to 40%. Exact figures vary with lot size, frontage, and form of development, so look up your specific address to confirm.
Alongside housing, R14 also lists Boarding and Lodging (accessory), daycare (accessory), and Short-Term Rental (accessory) among its permitted uses.
Intent of the R14 district
This zone provides for residential rehabilitation and the development of small scale multiple family residential redevelopment that is consistent with the historical architectural style of the area.
R14 at a glance
| Max dwelling units | 4 |
|---|---|
| Max height | 7.75 m |
| Site coverage | 40% |
| Zone category | Residential |
Density tiers in R14
| Tier | Min lot area | Max units | Base FSR | Bonus FSR | Max height |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old City Low Density (Fourplex) Residential | 750 m² | 4 | - | - | 7.75 m |
| Old City Low Density (Fourplex) Residential | 500 m² | 4 | - | - | 7.75 m |
Permitted uses in R14
- Duplex
- Multiple Family Dwelling
- Rooming House
- Single Residential Dwelling
- Boarding and Lodging (accessory)
- Daycare (accessory)
- Home Based Business (accessory)
- Secondary Suite (accessory, only where two or fewer principal dwelling units exist)
- Short-Term Rental (accessory)
R14 zoning FAQ
What is R14 zoning in Nanaimo?
R14 (Old City Low Density (Fourplex) Residential) is a residential zoning district in the City of Nanaimo. This zone provides for residential rehabilitation and the development of small scale multiple family residential redevelopment that is consistent with the historical architectural style of the area.
What can you build on R14-zoned land in Nanaimo?
Permitted uses in R14 include Duplex, Multiple Family Dwelling, Rooming House, Single Residential Dwelling, Boarding and Lodging (accessory), among others. Permitted uses are allowed outright; conditional uses may require Development Permit Board approval.
How tall can a building be in R14?
R14 permits a maximum building height of 7.75 m. Height can be affected by view corridors, setbacks, and the specific form of development.
How many units are allowed in R14 zoning?
R14 allows up to 4 dwelling units on an eligible lot. Under the Province's Bill 44 Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing rules, most standard residential lots in Nanaimo now permit multiple units outright. The exact number depends on lot size and whether rental tenure is secured.
Other residential zones in Nanaimo
- R1 - Single Dwelling Residential
- R1b - Single Dwelling Residential (subzone)
- R2 - Single Dwelling Residential - Small Lot
- R3 - Island Residential
- R4 - Two Unit Residential
- R5 - Three and Four Unit Residential
- R6 - Low Density Residential
- R7 - Row House Residential
Look up a specific address in Nanaimo
Source: official Nanaimo zoning bylaw (PDF) · updated October 2026