View Royal is proposing new zoning rules that would make it easier for residents to run businesses out of their homes and operate bed and breakfasts. The changes would scrap the current three-level system for home occupations and replace it with three new, clearer categories: Home Office, Minor, and Major home-based businesses.
Town council gave early approval to the amendment bylaw on July 7, 2026. Residents can learn more and share their thoughts at a public hearing Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at 6:00 pm in the Council Chambers at Town Hall, 45 View Royal Avenue.
One of the most significant changes would eliminate minimum lot size rules that currently block many smaller properties from housing certain kinds of businesses. Right now, a Level 3 home occupation—such as a bed and breakfast—needs a 1,000-square-metre lot, and a Level 2 home with a secondary suite needs 850 square metres. Under the new plan, those lot size limits would disappear, opening the door for more homeowners.
The review also proposes folding bed and breakfast rules directly into the home-based business section of the bylaw, adding a clear definition of “Home-Based Business,” and setting a maximum number of home-based businesses allowed on a single lot. Parking rules for home businesses would be added, and sign regulations would move to the Town’s Sign Bylaw.
The update flows from a priority in the Town’s 2023-2026 Strategic Plan. Council directed staff to begin the review in February 2025, and the full proposal is now available on the Town’s engagement site.
Further details, including the staff report, can be found in the July 7 council meeting package.
