The overall vision for how land is to be used and developed in the District of Sechelt is established by the Official Community Plan. The zoning established by Zoning Bylaw No. 25, 1987 specifies how land can be used under existing rules. The District's Environmental Management and Protection Bylaw No. 484, 2009 and a number of municipal, regional, provincial and federal laws and regulations help ensure land development minimizes its impact on the natural environment.
Depending on the development proposal or project being contemplated, land development in Sechelt will require a property owner to make a series of applications for bylaw amendments and permits. This process often requires a property owner to engage qualified professionals to assist in this process.
The following table provides some general guidance on what application or permitting process you may have to consider. Additional documentation and related application forms are available for download in the
Document Library.
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Application for
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Relating to
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Approved by
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Official Community Plan Amendment
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Changes in land use or policy
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Council
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Rezoning Amendment
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Changes in land use or density
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Council
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Development Permits -
Form & Character
Environmental Protection / Natural Hazards
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Design approval for commercial and multifamily development.
DP's are considered minor when:
- floor area of new construction is less than 100 m2 ; or
- exterior alterations are less than $40,000 in value.
Requirements for protection of the environment or to deal with natural hazards.
DP's are considered minor when:
- floor area of new construction is less than 100 m2; or
- not more than 1 additional single family residential lot is created; or
- alteration of land is being undertaken for construction of a single family dwelling; or
- the development permit is for construction or alteration of a single family dwelling
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Council or
Planning Staff if minor
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Development Variance Permits
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For variances to parking, building siting, dimensions and sizing, fencing, signage or servicing requirements
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Council
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Subdivision
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Land division, parcel consolidations or property boundary adjustments
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Approving Officer
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Building Permit Application Form
Permit/Inspection Process
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Permission to build or alter buildings and many types of structures
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Building Official
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Sign Permits
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Permission to erect or replace a sign
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Planning Staff
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Engineering and Servicing Agreements
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Permission to construct new driveways, install new sewer and drain connections, construct or upgrade roads and services
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Engineering Staff
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