Dunbar Residents Association News and Events

Orphan Lot Development

Orphan Lots exist throughout Vancouver. They are those lots that, for whatever reason, are bigger than the permitted minimum lot, but less than two times the minimum permitted lot. Orphan Lots are essentially those big lots that are just not big enough to be cleanly divided into two smaller lots.

Orphan Lots are now being subdivided in Dunbar – three in the past year. This has the effect of increasing density in the neighbourhood in a way that is contrary to the Dunbar Vision. The Dunbar Vision is, we were told, a Council-sanctioned Plan that would guide all future development in this neighbourhood. The subdivision of Orphan Lots is yet another indication that the Vision has in fact had all the impact of leaves rustling in a light breeze; the City continues to ignore the wishes of its residents. We are concerned,

On July 21, 2005, a representative of the DRA and several Dunbar citizens appeared before the City of Vancouver Standing Committee on Planning and Environment to request a change to the orphan lot bylaw. Report

The result of the meeting was:

“4. Subdivision By-law Provisions Re: “Orphan Lots” THAT Council re-affirm the equitable treatment afforded to “orphan lots” under Section 9.1(a) of the Subdivision By-law.”

• A follow-up to the the hearing of July 21, 2005 – S. Chapman.
• City of Vancouver Policy Report
• Orphan Lot Opposition Guide