The City of Vancouver is reviewing the Higher Buildings Policy. This policy was adopted in 1997 to provide guidance for downtown’s tallest buildings.

This review will explore whether and how increased height allowances in key areas of the highly built-up downtown peninsula could contribute to public benefits and city-building objectives, and advance key initiatives, including implementation of the approved Granville Street Plan(External link). The review is also an opportunity to intentionally shape Vancouver’s skyline by supporting architectural excellence, while balancing livability and sustainability. Protected public views are an important consideration that helps guide where taller buildings may be appropriate—and where they are not. Protected public views will not be reviewed or updated as part of this work.

Feedback will inform draft policy updates or options, which would be brought forward for additional public input before being presented to City Council. The City will provide updates on potential next steps, including additional phases of public engagement as the work progresses.
 

What's happening

Help shape the future of Vancouver’s skyline through an updated Higher Buildings Policy.
 

How to get involved

The City is currently holding the first round of public engagement, which is focused on gathering ideas, perspectives and vision for the future of tall buildings in Vancouver. There will be many opportunities to get involved and help shape the future of Vancouver’s skyline:

• Visit a pop-up event: City staff will be at a variety of locations for a series of pop-up events. Each location highlights a different perspective of the downtown skyline and invites you to share your thoughts on your preferred skyline and its key elements.

• Visit the Vancouver Lookout Exhibit: Join us in the skyline to discuss the future of tall buildings in Vancouver. Visitors to the exhibit will have an opportunity to get a bird’s eye view of the downtown, participate in interactive activities, and share their perspective on the trade-offs and considerations of the Higher Buildings Policy. Join us at the Vancouver Lookout (555 West Hastings St) for three sessions that are free for BC residents:
  • Sunday, May 3 from 2-6pm
  • Wednesday, May 6 from 6-9pm
  • Saturday, May 9 from 10am-6pm
• Learn more about the Higher Buildings Policy Review(External link)
• Complete an online survey open until Sunday, May 31(External link) (survey is available in multiple languages)
• Ideas Competition: This first phase of engagement will conclude with an Ideas Competition to gather design ideas on how to best deliver made-for-Vancouver solutions to taller buildings.
   

Next steps

Your feedback will inform the policy approaches that will be shared with the public as part of engagement in early 2027.

Visit the City of Vancouver website or sign up to their email list to receive project updates.