City of Langley Challenges Outdated Airspace Laws Limiting Building Heights

Push for Height Reform Near Future SkyTrain Stations

The City of Langley is urging the federal government to update airspace regulations that have capped building heights in the city for nearly half a century. With new SkyTrain stations on the way and an ambitious housing mandate from the province, Mayor Nathan Pachal says these restrictions could hinder the city’s ability to create much-needed transit-oriented housing and density.

Under current Langley Airport Zoning Regulations, developed in the 1970s, buildings within the airport’s jurisdiction cannot exceed 150 feet, or roughly 15 storeys. However, provincial housing policy now calls for developments within 200 metres of SkyTrain stations to reach a minimum of 20 storeys—a requirement that directly conflicts with these decades-old federal limits. Pachal calls it a “missed opportunity” to maximize the benefits of federal transit investments if those same federal rules prevent housing growth near new SkyTrain hubs.

Meetings in Ottawa Show Promise for Change

Langley City officials, including Pachal, recently met with Transport Canada in Ottawa to push for a more flexible, hazard-based approach to regulating airspace. “They want to move to a more practical, height hazard-based system, as opposed to this old legacy regulation,” Pachal said, noting that initial discussions with federal officials were encouraging.

Transport Canada confirmed that while no formal amendment has yet been received, the department is reviewing airport zoning regulations nationwide to align them with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and modern flight paths. This could open the door for Langley to pursue taller, denser, and more sustainable development in the near future.

Balancing Density and Livability

Cory Redekop, CEO of the Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce, emphasized that upward growth is essential for the city’s long-term sustainability. “Langley is a compact community,” he said. “If we want to preserve the rural, agricultural landscape that defines parts of our region, then we have to put density where we can — around our transit hubs that are coming in.”

Redekop added that higher-density zoning near SkyTrain stations aligns with the community’s vision for responsible urban growth, balancing the need for housing with the desire to maintain Langley’s distinctive character and green spaces.

Township of Langley Also Studying Airspace Rules

Even the Township of Langley supports the initiative. Township Mayor Eric Woodward said his council has no objections to the city’s request and is conducting its own review of airspace restrictions that extend beyond airport boundaries. “We currently have a study underway ourselves to see if we can get some of those restrictions — that are quite far away from the airport — also relaxed somewhat,” Woodward explained.

While the Township is less affected due to its larger land base, both municipalities agree that updating the regulations would support more cohesive and efficient regional growth, particularly near shared transportation corridors.

Next Steps for Langley’s Growth Vision

As Langley positions itself for a future shaped by transit expansion and population growth, revisiting outdated federal airspace rules could determine how effectively the city meets its housing and sustainability goals. The outcome of Transport Canada’s review will play a major role in shaping Langley’s skyline — and its long-term urban strategy.

For ongoing updates on regional development and urban planning in Langley, contact Realtor Jared Gibbons for expert insights on how these policy changes could shape the city’s real estate landscape.