Tandem Parking Update

What's Happening?

The City is currently reviewing the bylaw regulations on permitting tandem parking within townhouse developments.

What is Tandem Parking?

Tandem parking is when one car is parked behind the other, and can be provided with a two-car enclosed garage (Diagram 1), or a single-car enclosed garage, with the second spot available on the driveway apron (Diagram 2).

Why are we doing this?

Tandem parking in townhouse developments has been a topic of discussion for several years, due to concerns around residents using their parking space for storage, lack of unit storage space, garages being too small and narrow, and short driveway aprons to accommodate vehicles.

Public Engagement Opportunity

The City is seeking feedback on the affordability and functionality of townhouse developments with tandem parking arrangements. A survey on Tandem Parking is available until October 18, 2019.

Background Information

Council directed staff to review the tandem parking issues in 2013, a Public Open House was held on the proposed bylaw amendments, and in 2015, the issue was referred back to staff for further review.

Staff Report (PDF) - Tandem and Off-Street Parking Discussion Paper - May 27, 2013
Presentation (PDF) - Council Workshop - May 27, 2013
Staff Report (PDF) - Proposed Bylaw Amendments - October 7, 2013
Presentation (PDF) - Committee of the Whole - October 7, 2013
Draft Consultants' Report (PDF) - October 21, 2013
Presentation and Display Boards (PDF) - Open House - November 13, 2013
Staff Report (PDF) - Open House Feedback Presented to Council - March 17, 2014

In May 2019, a Tandem Parking Update was presented to Council to seek direction on how to proceed. At that meeting, staff were directed to consult with residents residing in certain townhouse developments as well as other relevant stakeholders.