Development decisions are guided by Colwood's Official Community Plan and Land Use Bylaws, which describe the City's vision for how our community will evolve in terms of land use, density and housing types. Some of the goals we are working toward include:
- creating vibrant town centres, streets and public places
- emphasizing Colwood's world-class waterfront
- preserving connections to nature and protecting natural assets
- increasing the availability of realistic transportation choices
- minimizing water and soil pollution and reducing automobile dependency, resource consumption and waste
Every property in Colwood has a land use designation(s) that is outlined in the OCP Bylaw No.1700. To find out the land use designation of your property, check out our online mapping system.
This type of application is required when a proposed development does not conform to the land use designation in the OCP. An amendment is the process of legally changing the land use designation on a property through an amending bylaw.
When Council assesses new development proposals, they are required to determine whether the project is consistent with the OCP. This is done by considering the proposal based on its designation in the OCP, and through an OCP policy assessment that is done by Planning staff. Amendments to the OCP are carefully assessed, as each new proposal should help contribute to the community achieving its visions and goals.
OCP Amendment and Rezoning applications are approved by Council in accordance with Part 14, Division 5 of the Local Government Act.
The full OCP Amendment and Rezoning process is outlined in the diagram below. Once you are ready to apply, ensure you have completed the OCP Amendment/Rezoning Application Checklist, and submit the online Development and Land Use Application form.
Every property in Colwood has a zoning classification that is outlined in the Land Use Bylaw No. 151. To find out the zoning classification of your property, check out our online mapping system.
A Rezoning Application is an application to amend the Land Use Bylaw. While conditions such as building setbacks or height can be varied through a Development Variance Permit (DVP), changing the permitted uses or allowable density in a particular zone requires a change to the Land Use Bylaw through a rezoning application. If your intention is to use your property for a use not currently permitted under the existing zoning you will need to apply to change it.
The purpose of rezoning is to change land use regulations to allow development that aligns with Council priorities and is often used to secure development contributions to help provide public amenities.
OCP Amendment and Rezoning applications are approved by Council in accordance with Part 14, Division 5 of the Local Government Act.
The full OCP Amendment and Rezoning process is outlined in the diagram below. Once you are ready to apply, ensure you have completed the OCP Amendment/Rezoning Application Checklist, and submit the online Development and Land Use Application form.
What is Subdivision?
Subdivision is the process of dividing existing parcels into new parcels or changing existing property boundaries. If you would like to divide your land into two or more plots of land, you will need to complete a subdivision application. In addition to these more common examples, there are other forms of subdivisions, and we recommend that you consult with Development Services staff to discuss. Please refer to the Development and Land Use Application Form and the Subdivision checklists to determine the minimum submission requirements.
Subdivision can include:
Cost of Subdivision
There are significant costs to subdividing lands - the upgrades and changes needed to accommodate new development have related demands on road, water, sanitary, and storm water systems. Please refer to the Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1603.
Role of the Approving Officer
All subdivisions must receive the approval of the Approving Officer (AO). The Approving Officer is a statutory official with separate and independent jurisdiction from the local government (Mayor and City Council). The Approving Officer is appointed under the Land Title Act and by the Strata Property Act, to make decisions and exercise discretionary powers with respect to the subdivision of land. Authority to approve or deny a subdivision application is at the sole discretion of the Approving Officer through Provincial Legislation and contained in the City of Colwood Subdivision and Servicing Bylaw as well as several key provincial statutes. It is the responsibility of the Approving Officer to ensure that subdivisions are in accordance with Provincial statues, regulations and local government bylaws regulating subdivision and zoning.
The review and approval process for subdivisions is necessary to ensure that all statutory and City Bylaw requirements are addressed including but not limited to:
- Size and shape of lots/buildable area;
- Roads, lanes and emergency vehicles access;
- Parks, open space and walkways;
- Preservation of natural features (ravines, streams, trees, etc.);
- Compatibility of subdivision pattern with surrounding neighbourhood;
- Sanitary sewer, water, drainage, street lights and other services; and,
- Municipal infrastructure such as protection of opportunity for future development for lands adjacent to or beyond the lands being subdivided
Subdivision Process
Once a completed preliminary subdivision application is received, it will be reviewed by internal departments and external agencies before a Preliminary Layout Assessment (PLA) is issued. This letter provides a preliminary list of technical requirements to be completed before final approval of the subdivision. You may also be asked to submit additional information or revise the proposal as a result of this review.
A typical PLA is issued within 3-4 months, though the process for more complex proposals will take longer. To address the PLA you may be required to submit civil engineering plans, enter into a Servicing Agreement, and other legal documents. It typically takes 12 months to satisfy the requirements of the PLA before the application is ready for consideration of approval. The timing of final subdivision approval may be affected if your subdivision application also requires other development approval processes, such as a Development Permit or Development Variance Permit.
The full OCP Amendment and Rezoning process is outlined in the diagram below. Once you are ready to apply, ensure you have completed the relevant Subdivision Application Checklist, and submit the online Development and Land Use Application form.
Additional Links
- Development and Land Use Application Form
- Subdivision (Air Space Parcel) Application Checklist [PDF/197KB]
- Subdivision (Final) Application Checklist [PDF/206KB] [PDF/206KB]
- Subdivision (Form P) Application Checklist [PDF/184KB]
- Subdivision (PLA) Application Checklist [PDF/218KB] [PDF/218KB]
- Subdivision (Strata Conversion) Application Checklist [PDF/246KB] [PDF/246KB]
- Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1603
If you have any questions about the Subdivision Process, please contact Development Services at 250-294-8153 or planning@colwood.ca.
What is a Development Permit?
A Development Permit (DP) is a land use permit used by local governments to review proposed developments to ensure they meet the policies and objectives of the Official Community Plan (OCP) Bylaw No. 1700, and satisfy all required regulations in the Land Use Bylaw No. 151 and Off-Street Parking Bylaw No. 1909.
What is a Development Permit Area?
Development Permit Areas (DPAs) are identified in the OCP and need special treatment for certain purposes, including the protection of the natural environment and the protection of development from hazards. These areas are also identified to establish objectives for the form and character of Colwood.
When is a Development Permit Required?
For properties located within a DPA, a Development Permit (DP) is required prior to the issuance of a building permit, or completion of a subdivision. A DP may also be required prior to any site disturbance on your property, including the clearing of land. If your property is located within multiple DPA’s, you only need to submit one application.
Refer to the figures in Section 18 of the OCP to find out if your property is located in a DPA. Alternatively, call 250.294.8153 or email planning@colwood.ca to speak with staff.
Development Permit Approval Process
Development permits are approved by the Director of Development Services. The full DP process is outlined in the diagram below. Once you are ready to apply, ensure you have completed the Application Checklist for a Form and Character DP [PDF/204KB] [PDF/204KB] and/or Environmental DP [PDF/214KB] [PDF/214KB], and submit the online Development and Land Use Application form.
Additional Links
- Development and Land Use Application Form
- Development Permit (Form and Character) Application Checklist
- Development Permit (Environmental) Application Checklist
- Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1603
If you have any questions about the Development Variance Permit Process, please contact Development Services at 250-294-8153 or planning@colwood.ca.
What is a Development Variance Permit?
A Development Variance Permit (DVP) is a land use permit used by local governments to ‘vary’ or relax a regulation. Examples of regulations that may be varied include building setbacks, height, size, or site coverage.
When is a Development Variance Permit required?
If your proposed development does not conform to the zoning regulations, a DVP may be a potential path forward. DVPs cannot vary land use (e.g., single family home to apartments) or density (e.g., floor area ratio), but can vary the siting, size, or height. Keep in mind that the approval of DVP applications is discretionary, so having a strong rationale in favor of the request demonstrating support from various City’s Official Community Plan (OCP) policies is mandatory for Committee and Council consideration.
Things to consider before you apply:
- Exhaust all options by trying to meet bylaw requirements before resorting to a DVP application.
- Speak to your neighbors regarding your plans.
- If you are in a strata, talk to your strata council.
- Be prepared to pay additional advertising costs (e.g., signage and notification).
Development Variance Permit Process
The full DVP process is outlined in the diagram below. Once you are ready to apply, ensure you have completed the DVP Application Checklist, and submit the online Development and Land Use Application form.
Helpful Links
- Development and Land Use Application Form
- Development Variance Permit Application Checklist [PDF/192KB]
- Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1603
- Official Community Plan (OCP)
If you have any questions about the Development Variance Permit Process, please contact Development Services at 250-294-8153 or planning@colwood.ca.
What is a Temporary Use Permit?
A Temporary Use Permit (TUP) is an approval from Council for a temporary land use that does not conform to the Land Use Bylaw No. 151. A TUP may be issued for up to 3 years and can only be renewed once by Council for an additional 3 years.
What does a Temporary Use Permit do?
A TUP may do one or more of the following:
- Allow a temporary use not permitted by the Land Use Bylaw
- Specify conditions under which the use may be carried on
- Allow and regulate the construction of buildings or structures in respect of the use for which the permit is issued
Who can apply for a Temporary Use Permit?
A property owner or agent having written authorization from the property owner may submit an application.
Temporary Use Permit Approval Process
Temporary Use Permit applications are approved by Council in accordance with Part 14, Division 8 of the Local Government Act.
The full TUP process is outlined in the diagram below. Once you are ready to apply, ensure you have completed the TUP Application Checklist [PDF/216KB] [PDF/216KB], and submit the online Development and Land Use Application form.
Helpful Links
- Development and Land Use Application Form
- TUP Application Checklist [PDF/216KB] [PDF/216KB]
- Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1603
- Land Use Application Procedures Bylaw No. 427
If you have any questions about the Temporary Use Permit Process, please contact Development Services at 250-294-8153 or planning@colwood.ca.
I am considering adding a secondary suite.
What do I need to do?
Determine if your property would be suitable for a secondary suite. Secondary suites are permitted in most Colwood single family homes. More information on what is permitted in your zone is available in the Colwood Land Use Bylaw.
Review the Adding a Suite Checklist for key requirements to consider when planning your secondary suite, including those listed below.
- The maximum size for a secondary suite is 90m2 (968ft2) or 40% of the gross floor area of the existing home, whichever is less.
- An additional unobstructed parking space must be provided for each suite.
- A secondary suite must have a separate dedicated entrance/exit.
More information about the requirements around secondary suites can be found in the Colwood Land Use Bylaw and the Off-Street Parking Regulations Bylaw. Suites will also be subject to BC Building Code requirements for fire and life safety (e.g. smoke detectors).
Take advantage of BC funding for your secondary suite
The Province of BC has announced a new program to provide forgivable loans of up to $40k to homeowners to build a secondary suite on their property.
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Secondary Suite FAQs
The City understands there is a housing crisis and wherever possible accommodates creating new dwelling units or bringing existing ones into compliance (where the property is zoned for that use, and it is safe to do so). You are not committed to anything by reaching out to ask questions. For zoning related questions, please reach out to planning@colwood.ca and for building questions, please reach out to building@colwood.ca Alternatively you can phone our general line and be directed to the appropriate staff member 250-478-7516.
Q-What do I need to build a new secondary suite in an existing house?
A- The first step is to confirm that your property is zoned for the intended use. Please reference the Adding a Suite Checklist [PDF/571KB] [PDF/571KB] to familiarize yourself with zoning requirements such as permitted size and parking to be provided. Once you have confirmed what you intend to do is possible, please submit a completed building permit application and plans. The plans required for this application are outlined in the chart on the main page for building permits. While you are able to submit drawings on your own, a designer or contractor who is familiar with zoning/building code requirements can save you time.
Q- What do I need to bring my existing secondary suite into compliance if there is no record of it or I want to confirm it is safe to occupy?
A- Please follow the steps outlined in the first FAQ answer. You are not committed to anything by reaching out to inquire. If you are zoned for that use and parking can be provided on the property, the city approaches existing suites on a case by case basis and works with the property owner to ensure the key life and safety requirements are in place. Examples of what those requirements may be are smoke alarms, egress requirements, and operational exhaust fans.
Q-I have a class ll secondary suite permit, does this mean my suite is legal?
A- At one time the City issued “class two” secondary suite permits. This was a declaration provided by the homeowner that the secondary suite met the basic zoning and building code requirements. The City no longer issues class two secondary suite permits or requires them to be renewed. They are no longer valid as that bylaw has been repealed. Because of this, the City is unable to confirm the suites legitimacy unless there is record of a building permit but does not consider existing ones to be an issue unless we are made aware of safety concerns. It is important for the property owner to know that a class two permit should not be taken as assurance that there were inspections to confirm the key life and safety aspects are in place. If you would like to confirm those are in place or require proof of the suites legitimacy, we encourage you to follow the steps explained in the second FAQ answer on this page.
Have more questions about secondary suites?
Talk to Development Services staff at 250-294-8153 or planning@colwood.ca to confirm that your property is suitable for a secondary suite, review the Adding a Suite Checklist, [PDF/571KB] [PDF/571KB] or discuss any other secondary suite requirements.
For more information on the Building Permit requirements and process for secondary suite, please contact our Building Department at building@colwood.ca.
I am considering building a garden suite.
What do I need to do?
Determine if your property would be suitable for a garden suite. Garden suites are permitted in most Colwood residential zones. More information on what is permitted in your zone is available in the Colwood Land Use Bylaw.
Review the Adding a Suite Checklist [PDF/571KB] [PDF/571KB] for key requirements to consider when planning your garden suite, including those listed below.
- The maximum size for a garden suite is 90m2 (968ft2) or 40% of the gross floor area of the existing home, whichever is less.
- An additional unobstructed parking space must be provided for each suite.
Property owners may convert an existing accessory building if it meets policy guidelines, or build something new. Garden suites must go through an application process for approval.
More information about the requirements around garden suites can be found in the Colwood Land Use Bylaw, where they are referred to as Accessory Dwelling Units, and in the Off-Street Parking Bylaw. Suites will also be subject to BC Building Code requirements for fire and life safety (e.g. smoke detectors).
Garden Suite FAQs
The City understands there is a housing crisis and wherever possible accommodates creating new dwelling units or bringing existing ones into compliance (where the property is zoned for that use, and it is safe to do so). You are not committed to anything by reaching out to ask questions. For zoning related questions, please reach out to planning@colwood.ca and for building questions, please reach out to building@colwood.ca Alternatively you can phone our general line and be directed to the appropriate staff member 250-478-7516.
Q- What do I need to build a new accessory dwelling unit? (commonly referred to as garden suite)
A- The first step is to confirm that your property is zoned for the intended use. Please reference the Adding a Suite Checklist [PDF/571KB] [PDF/571KB] to familiarize yourself with zoning requirements such as permitted gross floor area, parking and to confirm whether a development permit is required please reach out to planning@colwood.ca. Once you have confirmed what you intend to do is possible, please submit a completed building permit application and plans. The plans required for this application are outlined in the chart on the main page for building permits and the plans and documentation needed would be the same as what is required for a regular single-family dwelling. Hiring a designer or contractor who is familiar with zoning/building code requirements can save you time with application process.
Q- What do I need to convert an existing accessory building to an accessory dwelling unit? (commonly referred to as garden suite)
A- Please follow the steps outlined in the first FAQ answer. You are not committed to anything by reaching out to inquire. If you are zoned for that use and parking can be provided on the property, the city approaches these proposed conversions on a case by case basis. A city building official will attend the site free of charge to determine the extent of what is needed and will provide a summarized list for you to consider without any sort of commitment.
Have more questions about garden suites?
Talk to Development Services staff at 250-294-8153 or planning@colwood.ca to confirm that your property is suitable for a garden suite, review the Adding a Suite Checklist [PDF/571KB] [PDF/571KB], or discuss any other garden suite requirements.
For more information on the Building Permit requirements and process for garden suites, please contact our Building Department at building@colwood.ca.
To apply for a Sign Permit, complete an online Sign Permit Application and submit along with drawings of the proposed signage.
Once an application is submitted, a fee slip will be sent to the contact email provided in the application. It takes approximately 5-7 business days for the application to be processed from the time the application fee is paid.
More information on signage requirements and what signs are permitted in your zone is available in the Colwood Sign Bylaw.
Have more questions about Sign Permits?
For more information on Sign Permits or the Sign Bylaw, contact Development Services at 250-294-8153 or planning@colwood.ca.
Development in progress
Colwood is an exciting place to be! Opportunities abound in our fast growing, family-friendly community that is nestled along 5 kilometers of breathtaking oceanfront and set amongst some of the most beautiful parks and trails on Southern Vancouver Island.
Read about Rezoning and Development Activity in Colwood.