HA-1A Zoning in Vancouver — Chinatown South
HA-1A — Chinatown South is a historic area zoning district in the City of Vancouver. The intent of this schedule is to encourage the preservation and rehabilitation of the significant early buildings of Chinatown, while recognizing that the evolving activities that make this district an asset to the city need to be accommodated contextually.
On a typical HA-1A-zoned lot you can expect an FSR of about 5.35 and a maximum height of 22.9 m (6 storeys). Exact figures vary with lot size, frontage, and form of development — look up your specific address to confirm.
Intent of the HA-1A district
The intent of this schedule is to encourage the preservation and rehabilitation of the significant early buildings of Chinatown, while recognizing that the evolving activities that make this district an asset to the city need to be accommodated contextually.
HA-1A at a glance
| Floor space ratio (FSR) | 5.35 |
|---|---|
| Max height | 22.9 m |
| Max storeys (by right) | 6 |
| Zone category | Historic Area |
Density tiers in HA-1A
| Tier | Min lot area | Max units | FSR | Max height |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chinatown South | — | — | 5.35 | 22.9 m |
Permitted uses in HA-1A
- Mixed-Use Residential Building
- Multiple Dwelling
- Seniors Supportive/Independent Living
- Institutional uses
- Entertainment uses
- Manufacturing uses
- Wholesale uses
- Public Utility
HA-1A zoning FAQ
What is HA-1A zoning in Vancouver?
HA-1A (Chinatown South) is a historic area zoning district in the City of Vancouver. The intent of this schedule is to encourage the preservation and rehabilitation of the significant early buildings of Chinatown, while recognizing that the evolving activities that make this district an asset to the city need to be accommodated contextually.
What can you build on HA-1A-zoned land in Vancouver?
Permitted uses in HA-1A include Mixed-Use Residential Building, Multiple Dwelling, Seniors Supportive/Independent Living, Institutional uses, Entertainment uses, among others. Permitted uses are allowed outright; conditional uses may require Development Permit Board approval.
What is the FSR for HA-1A in Vancouver?
Floor Space Ratio (FSR) in HA-1A is about 5.35. ZoneScout calculates the maximum buildable floor area for your specific lot.
How tall can a building be in HA-1A?
HA-1A permits a maximum building height of 22.9 m, generally about 6 storeys. Height can be affected by view corridors, setbacks, and the specific form of development.
Other historic area zones in Vancouver
Look up a specific address in Vancouver
Source: official Vancouver zoning bylaw (PDF) · updated August 2026