Development Services

How land is managed impacts community vibrancy and  neighbourhood development in the future.

Development Services provides policy, regulation, and plan guidance to City Council, development applicants, and citizens regarding land and building development. Development applications involve City staff as well as Community Association Land Use Committees and Council and Council's standing and advisory committees.

Zoning

The Zoning Bylaw regulates how a property can be used, what type and size of buildings may be constructed, the size of lots that can be created and required parking for vehicles and bicycles.
If your development plans fit within the zoning regulations you should consult with the Permits and Inspections division to determine what type of building permits will be required. You will also need to determine whether a Development Permit is needed or if you property has heritage value.

If your development plans do not fit within the zoning your options may include (see below for more details):

  • Development Permit with Variances
  • Board of Variance
  • Development Variance Permit
  • Rezoning

Development Permit Areas

The Official Community Plan includes a number of Development Permit Areas which apply to the form and character of development for many commercial, industrial, multi-family, garden suite, small lot, duplex, and panhandle lot properties. If your property falls into one of these categories you may need a Development Permit before applying for a building permit. Click here for the Development Permit application.

Board of Variance and Development Variance Permits

The Board of Variance has the authority to grant minor variances from the building regulations specified in the Zoning Regulation Bylaw, but cannot vary use or density.  For more information on the Board of Variance Click here for more information on the Board of Variance.

A Development Variance Permit can be granted by Council for similar purposes, but also for other Zoning Regulation Bylaw regulations including parking requirements. Click here for the Development Variance Permit application.

Rezoning

Where the development concept does not meet the use or density of the existing zoning, then a rezoning is required. The Official Community Plan, local and neighbourhood plans and other City policies or guidelines specify under what circumstances a rezoning may be appropriate. These documents should be consulted before you make a decision to apply for a rezoning. Click here for more information on the rezoning process and application form.

If you are rezoning, one of your first steps will be meeting with the neighbourhood Community Association Land Use Committee. Gaining community support is an important part of any development approval process.

Subdivision or Strata Titling

Subdivision or Strata Titling is sometimes part of the development process. For more information consult the Land Development Division in Engineering.

Rapid Deployment of Affordable Housing

To advance the rapid deployment of affordable housing, projects by non-profit, government or co-op housing organizations will no longer require rezonings or Public Hearings when they are consistent with the City’s Official Community Plan, applicable design guidelines and other key qualifying criteria. For more information and resources for affordable housing providers, consult the Rapid Deployment of Affordable Housing Resources. 

Additional Resources

Additional Contacts

For your planned development you may also need to contact the following: