Carriage House vs Laneway House in BC: Key Differences Explained
Carriage House vs Laneway House: What’s the Difference?
These terms are often used interchangeably but mean different things depending on the municipality. Understanding the distinction helps ensure your project meets local zoning requirements.
Terminology by Municipality
| Municipality | Term Used | Location on Lot |
|---|---|---|
| City of Vancouver | Laneway House | Rear of lot, facing lane |
| Burnaby | Carriage House | Rear of lot (no lane required) |
| Richmond | Detached Garden Suite | Rear of lot |
| Surrey | Detached Accessory Dwelling | Rear, side, or above garage |
| North Vancouver | Laneway/Carriage House | Rear of lot or above garage |
| Coquitlam | Garden Suite / Carriage House | Rear of lot |
Vancouver Laneway Houses
Vancouver laneway houses must face the rear lane, be detached, and meet maximum height (5.5m), size (55m² + up to 10m² for storage), and setback requirements. They’re permitted on RS-1 lots across most of Vancouver.
Carriage Houses (Burnaby, North Van)
Carriage houses can be above a garage or detached in the rear yard. They typically allow slightly more flexibility in design since they don’t require lane access. Maximum size varies by municipality — typically 60–70m².
Cost Comparison
Construction costs for carriage houses and laneway houses are similar: $180,000–$350,000 depending on size, finishes, and whether it’s above a garage. The difference lies in permitting and design — carriage houses above garages save foundation costs ($15,000–$30,000) but add structural complexity.
→ See also: Vancouver Renovation Planning Guide
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