If your development project does not conform to any use or density restrictions under a zoning bylaw or does not conform to its land use designation under an official community plan, you will need to apply for an amendment to the applicable zoning bylaw and/or official community plan.
If you are proposing to amend an official community plan, a public hearing will be required. Public hearings allow for residents with an interest impacted by the proposed development to bring forward any potential impacts, concerns, or considerations to the Board of Directors before an amendment is considered for approval.
Not every application to alter land use regulations requires an amendment to the Official Community Plan. For example:
- Your property is designated as a Rural/Agricultural Property, and you wish to develop several residential lots. A joint official community plan and zoning bylaw amendment is required.
- Your property is designated as a rural residential property, and you wish to subdivide to create smaller lots on independent water/sewer systems. A zoning bylaw amendment is required, and an official community plan amendment may be required.
- You are increasing the density of a commercial use by adding a second, separate commercial building to the property. A zoning amendment is required.