Secondary Suites in West Vancouver
Secondary suites are one way communities across the North Shore are adapting to the need for more flexible housing. While they are more common in the City and District of North Vancouver, secondary suites are permitted in West Vancouver — but with more restrictive requirements and a formal registration process.
Whether you're a homeowner exploring your options, or a buyer curious about suite regulations in West Vancouver, here's what you need to know.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or building code advice. Property owners and buyers should consult the District of West Vancouver, licensed professionals, or legal advisors for guidance specific to their situation and home.
What Is a Secondary Suite?
In West Vancouver, a secondary suite is a self-contained residential unit located within a single-family home. These suites are typically smaller than the main dwelling and often situated in the basement. They must have their own cooking, sleeping, and bathroom facilities.
Homeowners may choose to build a suite for a family member, multi-generational living, or as a rental unit to offset housing costs. When done legally, suites can contribute to local housing diversity — and offer income potential for owners.
Are Secondary Suites Legal in West Vancouver?
Yes — but they must follow a very specific process to be considered legal. Unlike the City of North Vancouver, where registration is not required, or the District of North Vancouver, where suite registration is mandatory but more straightforward, West Vancouver has its own distinct rules.
To be legal, a suite must:
- Comply with the BC Building Code
- Be registered with the District of West Vancouver
- Have an active business licence, even if not rented
Failure to meet any of these requirements means the suite is unauthorized — which comes with legal, financial, and safety risks.
Building Code Requirements for Legal Suites
Legal suites in West Vancouver must meet extensive building and safety standards, including:
- A separate heating system
- A sprinkler system (new or altered)
- Minimum 45-minute fire separation
- Upgraded exit stairs and smoke alarms
- Fire-rated doors and dedicated exit
- Protection of combustible plumbing materials
- Electrical and plumbing upgrades to current code
These requirements ensure both the main home and the suite meet modern safety and livability standards — but they also make retrofitting an existing suite more complex and expensive.
Registering a Suite in West Vancouver
All homeowners with a secondary suite must formally register the unit and pay a fee to maintain licensed status. This helps the District provide municipal services to tenants, including library access, recreation facilities, and emergency services.
Initial Registration:
- One-time fee: $450 (includes first year’s business licence)
Annual Renewal Fees:
- Rented suites in non-owner-occupied homes: $450
- Rented suites in owner-occupied homes: $350
- Unoccupied or family-use suites: $85
You can complete the application through the Business Licence Application – Secondary Suite process.
Risks of an Unregistered or Unauthorized Suite
Homeowners who operate a suite without registering it with the District are in violation of local bylaws — and that can lead to serious consequences:
- Fines of up to $10,000
- Liens on the property, preventing sale or refinancing
- Court orders requiring removal of the suite or stopping tenancy
- Voided fire insurance coverage
If you’re planning to buy or sell a home with a suite in West Vancouver, it's crucial to confirm its legal status — and disclose it properly if unauthorized.
Decommissioning a Suite
If you no longer wish to maintain your suite — or want to avoid the fees and compliance process — you can choose to decommission the unit.
To do this:
- Hire a qualified electrician to obtain a permit
- Remove stove wiring and disconnect from the panel
- Remove all cooking appliances, including hotplates or microwaves
- Submit a signed declaration to the District confirming the suite is no longer in use
Once decommissioned, the suite is no longer considered a dwelling unit — and you are no longer subject to the registration process or fees.
Do Secondary Suites Add Value in West Vancouver?
In many cases, yes. A legal secondary suite can increase the market appeal of a property by offering:
- Rental income potential
- Space for extended family
- Flexibility for aging in place
Not all buyers will need or want a suite, but many will see value in the option — especially as housing affordability becomes more challenging across the North Shore. Properties with legal suites often attract more interest and may sell for a higher price than comparable homes without one.
However, unauthorized suites can reduce buyer confidence, especially if there's uncertainty about compliance or future use.
Where Can I Search for Homes with a Suite in West Vancouver?
If you're specifically looking for West Vancouver properties that include a secondary suite, our website makes it easy. Registered users can unlock advanced search tools that highlight homes featuring income-generating suites, in-law accommodations, or flexible multi-generational layouts.
Whether you're looking for a legal suite or simply want to explore properties with separate living space, this is a great starting point.
Start your search here:
West Vancouver Homes For Sale – RealEstateNorthShore.com
Buying or Selling a Home With a Suite?
If you're considering buying or selling a home in West Vancouver that includes a suite, it’s important to understand the rules — and confirm the suite’s legal status before making any decisions.
We're here to help ensure your next move is informed, secure, and successful.
Have questions about secondary suites in West Vancouver? Get in touch today.
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