Vancouver International Airport Zoning Changes

Summary#

Transport Canada is proposing to repeal and replace the Vancouver International Airport Zoning Regulations under the Aeronautics Act. The proposal would add new height limits and land‑use rules around Vancouver International Airport to protect two possible future runways (needed in about 30 years), and to reduce wildlife hazards and signal interference; people can comment for 60 days after publication on April 20, 2024.

What it does#

• Adds new zoning areas to protect two possible future runways called the Foreshore Runway and the Close‑in South Parallel Runway. That means new height limits and restricted land uses on parts of Richmond, Vancouver, Burnaby and Delta.
• Sets a fixed outer height limit of 45 m in some areas and slope‑based limits on approach and transitional zones (farther from the runway = taller allowed).
• Keeps existing buildings and already‑approved projects as legally non‑conforming (they can remain), but new developments must follow the new limits.
• Carves out a few small “bump‑out” exception areas (mainly in Richmond) where taller building heights would be allowed on specific lots.
• Prohibits land uses that attract wildlife (not just food/waste, but also shelter and open water) near flight paths; allows open water storage reservoirs only for 48 hours or less unless mitigated.
• Prohibits uses of land that cause interference with signals to/from aircraft or aeronautical facilities (for example, certain radio transmitters or cell tower configurations, including concerns about 5G and windfarm interference); it would not apply to ordinary cellphone users.
• Updates aviation terms to align with current standards (TP 312 and ICAO).
• Sets enforcement powers: the Minister of Transport can order removal or cessation of non‑conforming uses; fines for offences would be $5,000 for an individual and $25,000 for a corporation.

Who's affected#

• Municipal governments: City of Richmond, City of Vancouver, City of Burnaby, City of Delta — they will have to consider the new limits in planning, parks and stormwater design.
• Landowners and property developers inside the new zoning areas — future high‑rise or other development may be limited or need design changes.
• The Vancouver Airport Authority, which asked for the protections to keep runway options open.
• Local residents and businesses near the airport — most existing houses and buildings would not need to change, but future projects could be constrained.
• Indigenous group noted in the file: the Musqueam Indian Band was contacted; no comments were received. The department says treaty or harvesting rights are not expected to be affected.
• NAV CANADA and airlines benefit indirectly through safety measures; Transport Canada did not identify current land uses that would immediately violate the new interference clause.

If it’s unclear: the notice does not list any specific current projects that would be forced to change now — the exact impact on particular properties depends on their location and whether they are already built or approved.

Why it matters#

• Protects the airport’s ability to expand decades from now by keeping flight paths clear. That preserves options for more flights and the economic role of the airport.
• Aims to reduce safety risks now and in the future by limiting things that attract birds and by preventing electronic interference that can affect navigation and communications during landing and take‑off.
• Could change how cities design stormwater systems, parks and certain developments near the airport (fewer open ponds, different pond designs, or underground storage).
• Most existing buildings are left alone, but developers and city planners will need to factor the new rules into future plans. The government’s analysis notes possible opportunity costs (like fewer tall buildings and housing units in some spots), but says those impacts are likely limited based on current local building norms.