Downtown Eastside Housing
Proposed changes to increase social and below-market rental housing
The City of Vancouver is proposing policy changes to increase housing options in the Downtown Eastside (DTES), including for those living in Single Room Occupancy buildings (SROs).
This follows City Council direction to explore policy updates that would make it easier for governments, non-profits, and the private sector to build social housing and accelerate SRO replacement. These proposed changes align with the vision of the 2014 DTES Plan to build diverse housing options for various income levels, including more market rental. The proposed changes aim to create a mixed income community, and improving the quality of life for low-income residents.
Next steps
Public engagement on the proposal was open from April 23 to May 16, 2025. Feedback was collected through an online survey to help shape the proposed actions and inform the report to Council at the end of the year. The engagement period included a public information session and a series of workshop for organizations, property owners, or groups serving or based in the Downtown Eastside
Staff will review and summarize responses into an engagement summary report. The report will be posted online in the coming months. Feedback from the public and interest holders along with other inputs will be used to inform recommended housing policy changes. Proposed changes will be presented to Council by the end of 2025.