A Temporary Use Permit allows the use of land, on a temporary basis, in a manner which does not conform to the applicable zoning bylaw or official community plan. These permits may be issued for an initial period of up to three years, with the possibility of one extension for a further three years.

The permit takes precedence over uses allowed in a zoning or rural land use bylaw. An example of a temporary use requiring a permit would be a retail store being located within a residential dwelling. 

Conditions can be imposed as part of the permit. For example, the permit may require the permittee to return the property to the original state after use, or providing the CRD with a bond or letters of irrevocable credit with regard to a subject condition. This is to ensure that the agreed-upon conditions are completed and allow the property to return to its permitted uses once the permit expires.