With the ratification of Bylaw No. 511, 2006 the District established a comprehensive Development Procedures Manual that will help solidify consistency and clarity in the development process for the development community. Each procedure is summarized in plain language through the brochures that are listed beneath them. They are a good starting point for anyone that would like to become familiar with them.
Board of Variance
You usually apply for a Board of Variance if:
- There is undue hardship caused by a Zoning Bylaw regulation as to the site placement, size or dimension of a building, the prohibition against structural additions or alterations to a non-conforming use, or subdivision servicing requirements in an area zoned for industrial use;
- The development is minor in nature; or
- An individual feels there has been an error in judgment by the Building Inspector as to the extent of damage to a non-conforming structure
What is Undue Hardship?
Hardship is related to aspects of the particular site as opposed to general hardships in the area, or hardships generated by the owner. Expense is not a hardship.
What is a Minor Variance?
Minor variances are determined locally and are not defined in legislation in British Columbia.
Brochure (pdf)
Application (pdf)
Development Permits
The District's Official Community Plan identifies areas in the community where development permits must be obtained in order to proceed with a project. These permits are tied to specific guidelines that apply to all development within the designated area. Development Permit Area maps and guidelines are available for viewing at the Town Hall.
Brochure (pdf)
Application (pdf)
Development Variance Permits
You usually apply for a Development Variance Permit if:
- The development is not considered minor in nature, and/or;
- The applicant is requesting relief from a Zoning Bylaw regulation as to the site placement, size or dimension of a building, the prohibition against structural additions or alterations to a non-conforming use, or subdivision servicing requirements in an area zoned for agricultural or industrial use.
The process of obtaining a Development Variance differs from that of a Board of Variance (see above).
Brochure (pdf)
Application (pdf)
Official Community Plan (OCP) Amendments
If the use you are proposing in a particular area is not permitted by the OCP, then you must apply for an OCP Amendment and receive approval before your zoning amendment application is considered by Council. In such cases, both applications may be made concurrently.
Brochure (pdf)
Application (pdf)
Temporary Commercial and Industrial Permits
This permitting process is utilized when a temporary commercial and/or industrial activity is being proposed for a piece of District property (I.e. Work camps)
Brochure (pdf)
Application (pdf)
Zoning Bylaw Amendments
If the use you are proposing in a particular area is not permitted by the current zoning designation, then you must apply to have the property rezoned. Most often you will have to apply for an OCP Amendment (see above) and receive approval before your zoning amendment application is considered by Council. In such cases, both applications may be made concurrently.
Brochure (pdf)
Application (pdf)
* Please note that the text in the applications is quite small when printed on letter sized paper, so it is advised to use legal sized parchment (8.5"x14").