RM-1 Zoning in Vancouver - Low Density Multiple Dwelling

RM-1: Low Density Multiple Dwelling is a residential zoning district in the City of Vancouver. The intent of this schedule is to encourage development of courtyard townhouses on larger sites while continuing to permit lower intensity residential development on smaller sites

On a typical RM-1-zoned lot you can expect an FSR of roughly 0.4–1.2, a maximum height of 10.7 m (2 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.

The dwelling count depends on building form and site area. Apartment density is set by the applicable units-per-hectare tier; a triplex limit applies only to the triplex form. Check the district schedule and your specific lot.

Alongside housing, RM-1 also lists Seniors Supportive/Independent Living, Urban Farm, and club among its permitted uses.

Intent of the RM-1 district

The intent of this schedule is to encourage development of courtyard townhouses on larger sites while continuing to permit lower intensity residential development on smaller sites

RM-1 at a glance

Floor space ratio (FSR)	0.4–1.2
Max height	10.7 m
Max storeys (by right)	2
Site coverage	55%
Zone category	Residential

Density tiers in RM-1

Tier	Applies to	Min frontage (m)	Units / ha	Min lot area	Max units	Base FSR	Conditional FSR	Max height
Low Density Multiple Dwelling	calculatin of max number of units will vary based off FSR. If FSR is 1.0 or lower, max units is 86 units per hectare (current calculation is 98 / hectare)	18.3	86	604 m²	-	0.4	1.2	10.7 m
Low Density Multiple Dwelling	Regulations may vary for infill projects; 0.65 is achievable for retaining a residential building existing prior to January 1, 1940	-		306 m²	2	0.4	0.6	10.7 m

Permitted uses in RM-1

Multiple Dwelling
Duplex
Infill Single Detached/Duplex
Mixed-Use Residential Building
Seniors Supportive/Independent Living
Urban Farm
Club
Community Centre
Library
Park/Playground
Ambulance Station
Child Day Care
Church
Community Care - Class B
Group Residence
Hospital
School
Social Service Centre
Farmers' Market
Neighbourhood Grocery
Bed & Breakfast
Short Term Rental
Public Utility

RM-1 zoning FAQ

What is RM-1 zoning in Vancouver?

RM-1 (Low Density Multiple Dwelling) is a residential zoning district in the City of Vancouver. The intent of this schedule is to encourage development of courtyard townhouses on larger sites while continuing to permit lower intensity residential development on smaller sites

What can you build on RM-1-zoned land in Vancouver?

Permitted uses in RM-1 include Multiple Dwelling, Duplex, Infill Single Detached/Duplex, Mixed-Use Residential Building, Seniors Supportive/Independent Living, among others. Permitted uses are allowed outright; conditional uses may require Development Permit Board approval.

What is the FSR for RM-1 in Vancouver?

Floor Space Ratio (FSR) in RM-1 generally ranges from about 0.4 up to 1.2. ZoneScout calculates the maximum buildable floor area for your specific lot.

How tall can a building be in RM-1?

RM-1 permits a maximum building height of 10.7 m, generally about 2 storeys. Height can be affected by view corridors, setbacks, and the specific form of development.

How many units are allowed in RM-1 zoning?

RM-1 sets density as a rate rather than a fixed number of units per lot: The dwelling count depends on building form and site area. Apartment density is set by the applicable units-per-hectare tier; a triplex limit applies only to the triplex form. Check the district schedule and your specific lot. Look up your specific address for what that works out to on your lot.

Other residential zones in Vancouver

Look up a specific address in Vancouver

Source: official Vancouver zoning bylaw (PDF) · updated October 2026