A new planning process is underway to identify needed updates to zoning and land use bylaw regulations regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).

Planning for ADUs follows the zoning amendments adopted by the Directors in June 2024 to align with the small-scale multi-residential housing (SSMUH) requirements set out in the provincial Housing Statutes (Residential Development) Amendment Act, 2023 (Bill 44). RDEK communities have also expressed the need for a range of housing types and options within the region. To enable robust consultation across the region, a separate process on ADUs is being launched.

The review will incorporate consideration of recent changes to the Agricultural Land Commission Act; a review of current bylaws, the 2024 Interim Housing Needs Assessment Reports, and provincial SSMUH Policy Manual & Site Standards. ADU types, sizes, location, servicing, and maximum numbers on properties are being considered as part of this planning process.

This planning process is an opportunity to define what ADUs are within the RDEK zoning bylaws. To start the conversation, ADUs can be understood to be any independent, self-contained living space that is in addition to the principal dwelling unit or structure on a single property, and includes interior, attached, and detached dwelling units.

Some Examples of Accessory Dwelling Units

(Figure credit: APA - Accessory Dwelling Units)

The following is a summary of zoning amendments adopted by RDEK Directors in June 2024 to align with provincial SSMUH legislation:

  • Eight zoning bylaws were amended to permit secondary suites in all residential zones that previously only permitted single family dwellings or duplexes.
  • The permitted size of secondary suites was increased from 40% to 49% of the principal dwelling unit.
  • Side yard setbacks were decreased when adjacent property is not a road for some zones.
  • Clarification of the maximum number of principal dwelling units permitted on parcels

How can you get involved?

Hearing from diverse residents from across the region is incredibly important to help ensure that any changes in bylaw regulations consider all viewpoints within the RDEK. Feedback from Ktunaxa and Shuswap Governments, Métis Associations, Agricultural Land Commission, Interior Health, BC Ministry of Transportation and Transit, and housing societies is also being sought.

WE NEED YOUR INPUT

Your input is very important and will help shape ADUs in your community into the future.

  • Please take the time to complete the online survey available below by December 1, 2025.
  • A paper or digital copy of the survey can be sent to you upon request and surveys can be filled out by phone through Sarah Baines.

YOU ARE INVITED

Online and in-person open houses are scheduled across the RDEK so that residents and property owners can work together with RDEK staff to identify potential land use and zoning bylaw amendments related to ADUs. Please plan on attending an open house as community engagement and participation is the foundation of a successful planning process. A list of the Open Houses is available under the "Open Houses" link on this page.

The open houses are designed to be flexible and welcoming — participants are free to come and go at their own pace. A 10-minute recorded presentation will be available on demand for those who would like an overview of the ADU planning process. Attendees will be invited to take part in interactive stations intended to gather feedback on potential bylaw changes related to ADUs. Participants can also share any additional ideas, concerns, or comments that may not be covered in the stations. RDEK staff and the Electoral Area Director will be available throughout the event to answer questions and engage in discussion.

Some things to think about before the open house are:

  • What types of Accessory Dwelling Units do I want in my community?
  • How and where do I want Accessory Dwellings Units used in my community?
  • What issues may arise from having Accessory Dwelling Units in my community?
  • What solutions will help deal with those issues?
  • Give Sarah Baines your email address if you would like to engage directly with RDEK staff or participate in a focus group on ADUs
  • Sign up for email updates by selecting your preferred mailing list(s) at https://www.rdek.bc.ca/about/email_group_sign_up

Survey