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Basement & Secondary Suites1 min readMar 21, 2026

Vancouver Laneway House Complete Guide 2025

Vancouver Laneway Houses: Everything You Need to Know

Vancouver laneway houses (also called coach houses or lane houses) have transformed neighbourhoods across the city since regulations changed in 2009. Over 7,000 laneway homes have been built, providing affordable rental housing and investment income.

Vancouver Laneway House Rules (Current)

  • Permitted on most RS-1, RS-2, RS-3, RS-4, RS-5 lots with rear lane
  • Maximum floor area: 83.6 sq m (900 sq ft)
  • Maximum height: 6m (19.5 ft) at the midpoint of the roof
  • Minimum setbacks: 0.6m from lane, 0.9m from side lot lines
  • Must be rental housing (cannot be strata-titled separately)

Construction Costs (2025)

Size Cost Range
Small (400 sq ft) $200,000–$320,000
Standard (600–700 sq ft) $280,000–$450,000
Large (850–900 sq ft) $380,000–$600,000

Rental Income

Vancouver laneway houses command $2,200–$3,500/month depending on size and neighbourhood. Highest rents: Kitsilano, Mount Pleasant, Grandview-Woodland.

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→ See also: Vancouver Renovation Permits Guide

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Vancouver General Contractors has completed 500+ home renovations across Metro Vancouver since 2010. Our articles are written and reviewed by licensed contractors, project managers, and renovation specialists with hands-on field experience.

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