Mission — Homeowners must now register their secondary suite with the City of Mission as part of a new program aimed at helping the City gain greater insight into neighbourhood population concentrations. The information will support better planning of community services and infrastructure in the future.
“Mission is once again doing something other cities have yet to try,” said Mayor Paul Horn. “We recognize the importance of secondary suites as a key component of housing affordability, providing a mechanism for people to both afford their mortgages and creating a supply of affordable rentals.”
Register now and save money
For those who registered before April 2, 2024. Based on feedback from residents, Council reduced the proposed $200 annual secondary suite fee to $60. An annual secondary suite fee of $60 and applicable utility user fees will be applied to the 2024 property tax notice.
Existing suites
A Secondary Suite is a self-contained living space that is located within a single detached home and is part of the same real estate entity. The existence of a secondary suite is not determined by the payment of rent nor determined by who occupies the space, including family members. If an independent residence exists, then a secondary suite exists.
Homeowners who currently have a secondary suite should register regardless of whether their suite was installed with or without the proper permits or approvals. While the City is accepting registrations of all existing suites, those registering after April 2, 2024, will be subject to inspections and required to bring their suite into full BC Building Code and bylaw compliance.
“As far as we know, this is the first effort by a municipality to give citizens an opportunity to create a legally registered suite in a simple and affordable option,” said Horn. “By doing so, we will be better able to plan for our City’s future and, at the same time, fulfill the province’s mandate of more affordable housing options.”
The program continues to allow owners to apply for exemptions from paying double utilities under certain circumstances.
A Mission Designed Program
During an information session on the new program late last year, many residents voiced concerns about certain aspects of the program. In response, the City has made changes to the Secondary Suites Program that make registration easier along with reduced, and in some cases, the elimination of fees and other barriers to registering an existing suite.
“We needed public feedback and we are grateful to have received it when we first opened the program back in December 2023,” said Mayor Horn. “We learned that we needed to reduce fees and give people more options. We know that there will be more to learn as we proceed and changes may be made in the future. We also recognize the value of this program, and the need to get started. We will be eager to hear feedback, and to see how the public responds to this opportunity.”
Find out more about the program and register now.
