Northeast Port Moody · Port Moody

Ioco

A historic townsite with a significant redevelopment future. Waterfront properties, proximity to Buntzen Lake and Belcarra, and one of Port Moody's most interesting long-term investment stories.

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Avg. Home Price
SD 43
School District
Up to 4 units
SSMUH on qualifying lots

Living in Ioco

Ioco is Port Moody's most distinctive neighbourhood — and arguably its most interesting from an investment perspective. The area sits on the northeast side of the city, along Ioco Road heading toward Belcarra and Buntzen Lake. Its name comes from the Imperial Oil Company refinery that operated here for decades, and that industrial history is now shaping its future.

The neighbourhood today is a mix of older detached homes, waterfront properties, and open land earmarked for a significant redevelopment project. The city has long-term plans for a major expansion of Ioco that would bring new housing, commercial space, and community amenities to the area. While timelines remain fluid, the direction is clear — and that makes Ioco one of Port Moody's most closely watched neighbourhoods.

For daily life, Ioco is quieter and more car-dependent than Port Moody's core. Amenities are limited within the neighbourhood itself, but Buntzen Lake, Belcarra Regional Park, and the Indian Arm waterfront are all at your doorstep. It's a neighbourhood that rewards patience and long-term thinking.

What's nearby

Ioco's appeal centres on nature and waterfront access. In-neighbourhood shopping is minimal — you'll head to Newport Village or Suter Brook for daily needs — but the natural surroundings are exceptional.

Buntzen LakeSwimming, trails, and forest walks — one of the Tri-Cities' most popular outdoor destinations
Belcarra Regional ParkPicnic areas, pier, canoe and kayak rentals — accessible via Ioco Road
White Pine BeachMan-made lake and beach area in the Belcarra direction
Ioco Townsite TrailsGrassy fields and walking paths — popular with dog walkers
Newport VillageNearest shopping hub — groceries, dining, and services a short drive south
Port Moody Rec ComplexIce arena, gym, courts — accessible via Ioco Road

Schools & education

Ioco falls within School District 43. Because it's a smaller residential area, families typically access schools in the adjacent Heritage Mountain and North Shore neighbourhoods.

Eagle Ridge Elementary and Pleasantside Elementary serve the elementary level. For middle school, Moody Middle and Eagle Mountain Middle are the primary options. Heritage Woods Secondary and Port Moody Secondary serve the high school years. Private options including Our Lady of Assumption are within a short drive.

Getting around

Transit in Ioco is limited compared to central Port Moody. Bus service runs along Ioco Road, connecting to Inlet Centre SkyTrain Station and the broader TransLink network. However, frequency is lower and a car is recommended for daily life.

Inlet Centre Station is the nearest SkyTrain stop on the Evergreen Extension. Barnet Highway is accessible via the Port Moody core for driving connections to Burnaby and Vancouver. The isolation is part of Ioco's character — but it also means transit-dependent households should consider their needs carefully.

Multiplex potential in Ioco

Under British Columbia's Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) legislation, many single-residential lots in Ioco now qualify for increased density. Port Moody amended its zoning bylaw in June 2024 to align with these provincial requirements, and the city's Guide to SSMUH was adopted in July 2025.

SSMUH zoning facts for Ioco

Qualifying RS/RT lots (280 m² – 4,050 m²) are eligible for up to 4 units under SSMUH
Ioco is not within a SkyTrain transit-oriented area (TOA) and is unlikely to have lots qualifying for 6 units given limited frequent transit
The Ioco Lands redevelopment is a separate process from SSMUH — the two frameworks operate independently
Lots under 280 m² are limited to 3 units
Zoning bylaw amended June 2024; Guide to SSMUH adopted July 2025

Ioco's SSMUH story is straightforward on existing residential lots. The bigger question for many owners is how the future Ioco Lands development will affect the area's overall trajectory. Contact Dawar for guidance on both.

Who lives in Ioco

Ioco attracts people who value nature, privacy, and a longer-term view. It's popular with outdoor enthusiasts who want Buntzen Lake and Belcarra at their doorstep, as well as investors watching the area's redevelopment potential. The community is small and close-knit.

It's not the right fit for everyone — amenities are sparse, transit is limited, and timelines for the major redevelopment are still evolving. But for buyers who see the long-term picture and want to be positioned early, Ioco offers something no other Port Moody neighbourhood does.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Ioco Lands redevelopment?
The former Imperial Oil refinery site has been earmarked for a major mixed-use development that would significantly expand the neighbourhood. Plans have evolved over the years and timelines remain fluid. Contact Dawar for the latest status.
Is Ioco a good investment?
Ioco offers a unique combination of waterfront access, proximity to nature, and long-term redevelopment potential. However, it's a patient play — current amenities and transit are limited. It depends on your timeline and goals.
How far is Ioco from SkyTrain?
Inlet Centre Station on the Evergreen Extension is the nearest SkyTrain stop, accessible by bus along Ioco Road. The distance varies by location within the neighbourhood.
Can I build a multiplex in Ioco?
Qualifying residential lots are eligible for up to 4 units under SSMUH. The Ioco Lands redevelopment is a separate planning process. For your specific lot, contact Dawar for a free feasibility assessment.
What outdoor activities are near Ioco?
Buntzen Lake offers swimming and forest trails. Belcarra Regional Park has picnicking, kayaking, and canoeing. White Pine Beach is popular in summer. The old Ioco townsite itself has walking paths and open green space.
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