The charming neighbourhoods of Vancouver are under threat from a wave of redevelopment decisions reminiscent of the infamous "monster home" era of the 1990s. However, this time, the homes are even more oversized—reaching towering heights of four to six stories. 

Vancouver is known for its lush green streets, community-oriented living spaces, and vibrant diversity. Yet, recent development projects have been akin to paving paradise: bulldozing mature trees to make way for colossal structures that overshadow existing homes.

We , the undersigned residents of Vancouver, present this petition to Mayor Sim and City of Vancouver Councillors Bligh, Dominato, Fry, Kirby-Yung, Klassen, Maloney, Meiszner, Montague, Orr, and Zhou.

Support for this petition will confirm widespread and growing discontent with the massive and incompatible multiplex constructions appearing on Vancouver’s residential streets – the consequence of your 2023 “one-size-fits-all” R1-1 zoning. We can have increased density without destroying existing neighbourhood character by applying common sense and showing leadership.

Your administration can enact changes, and we urge you to take action now, before the civic election, on the following solutions:

SOLUTION Require compliance and compatibility with existing neighbourhood. Limit height and site coverage to closely match existing structures and placements. RATIONALE/REASON Reduce impacts: loss of privacy, loss of light, loss of views, overshadowing, and lost equity of existing owners.

SOLUTION Include on-site parking, one stall per unit RATIONALE/REASON A sixplex could place 12 cars on the street.

SOLUTION Stop canopy loss. Add tree-replacement and retention strategies for residential properties. No more clearcutting lots. RATIONALE/REASON 62% of Vancouver’s tree canopy is on private property (maximum build is tantamount to clearcutting); climate mitigation requires more tree canopy – not less.

SOLUTION Introduce discretionary zoning. Vary by-laws according to topography, size and shape of properties.  RATIONALE/REASON Avoid unnecessary erosion of quality- of- life issues and avert conflict between residents and developers.

SOLUTION Bring back neighbourhood consultation and notification. Reinstate the opportunity to appeal a permit. RATIONALE/REASON Property owners and residents feel ignored 
and disrespected by “top-down” decisions imposed without consent or consultation

SOLUTION Increase density appropriately. Not all properties are suitable for a sixplex. RATIONALE/REASON Government mandated UP to 6 or 8 units per property not practical – no blanket policy is

SOLUTION Control design. Remove certain design elements from use by developers. RATIONALE/REASON Assess the box design and the use of fake materials; setbacks and insets on buildings create sense of space and distance

SOLUTION Mitigate the impact of multiplex structures. Reward applications for corner properties as well as those near main transit lines. RATIONALE/REASON Only half the impact on others - can use boulevard for increased ground space and mitigate street parking issues

Please sign this petition to stand against the massive and incompatible multiplex constructions appearing on Vancouver's residential streets. The well-being of Vancouver’s residents should take precedence over any initiative to reduce the workload of the City of Vancouver planning and permitting departments. 
Returning to some of the RS-5 (or similar) requirements will be well worth the expense.