Vancouver joins other British Columbia municipalities promoting more usable balconies year-round
Updated city-wide guidance allows installation of fully retractable balcony glazing without impacting floor space ratio (FSR) calculations.
VANCOUVER, B.C., October 14, 2026 – Lumon Canada welcomes the City of Vancouver’s recently approved City-wide Design and Development Guidelines, which amongst other measures recognize fully retractable balcony glazing as a solution to enhance balcony usability without impacting FSR calculations. These Guidelines will take effect on October 27, 2026.
Vancouver is now among more than 10 municipalities across British Columbia (B.C.) that have adopted policy changes or zoning amendments that distinguish retractable balcony glazing from enclosed, ‘conditioned’ interior space which is included in density calculations. These include the City of North Vancouver, Coquitlam, Burnaby, the City and Township of Langley, Abbotsford, Chilliwack and others across the Lower Mainland.
Fully retractable balcony glazing preserves the primary outdoor function of the balcony. However, it provides protection from wind, rain, pollution, and urban noise, thus making balcony spaces more comfortable and functional year-round.
“I am pleased to see Vancouver become the latest municipality to join others in B.C. and Ontario in recognizing the importance of making balconies more usable year-round,” said Kristoph Karbach, Executive Vice President of Lumon North America. “As homes become more compact and cities continue to densify, residents need outdoor spaces that can be enjoyed more often throughout the year. Retractable balcony glazing helps make that possible while preserving balconies as outdoor amenity space. I welcome developers and architects who have been interested in designing homes with balcony glazing, but have been hesitant due to possible impact on FSR, to connect.”
The City of North Vancouver and Coquitlam were among the first municipalities in Canada to implement formal zoning amendments to allow retractable balcony glazing without affecting Floor Space Ratio calculations. Lumon officials are now in discussions with other B.C. municipalities to encourage them to make similar policy and zoning changes.
“The future of housing is not simply about building more homes; it is about building better homes,” said Michael Geller, planning consultant and former architect. “Creating outdoor spaces that residents can actually enjoy throughout the year is an important part of that conversation.”
About Lumon Canada
Lumon Canada is part of the Lumon Group, an international leader in balcony and terrace glazing solutions operating in more than 20 countries worldwide. For more than four decades, Lumon has worked with homeowners, developers, architects, and municipalities to create more livable and sustainable outdoor environments.
Media Contact
Michael Geller
(1)778-997-9980
michaelarthurgeller@gmail.com
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