Both Pocket Neighbourhoods and Multi-Unit Developments are supported by new policy and would require a Development Permit as well as rezoning approval. There are no Land Use Bylaw regulations specific to these forms of development. A development proposal for either of these housing types would require a rezoning application and a new zone to be created as part of the approval process.
Pocket neighborhoods
Pocket neighborhoods are a group of clustered houses gathered around some sort of shared open space such as a garden courtyard, that are intentionally designed to build community and foster social interaction.
The following links provide more information and ideas on pocket neighbourhoods.
- Better Living Together
- What's in a Pocket Neighbourhood?
- Pock Neighbourhoods, Balandra.ca 2013
- The Allure of Pocket Neighbourhoods, Forbes 2019
- Homes for Heroes Foundation (do not call themselves a pocket neighbourhood but the principles are the same)
Multi-Unit developments
In this context “Multi-Unit” means a small scale multi-family development (townhouse or apartment) with up to 8 units. This could include older homes being converted into three or more suites.