Rezoning

What is Rezoning?

Every property in Colwood has a zoning classification that is outlined in the Colwood Land Use Bylaw, 1989. To find the zone of a property, check the Colwood GIS Map. A rezoning application is an application to amend these zones or the zoning classification of a property(ies).

When is a Rezoning Required?

Rezoning applications are required to change the permitted use or density of a zone (e.g., a single-family home to townhouses or apartment). Other regulations such as building setbacks or height may be varied through a Development Variance Permit (DVP), however use and density amendments require a rezoning. 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. Rezoning applications are intended to align with the City’s Official Community Plan (OCP) Bylaw No. 1700, 2018. If the proposed application does not align with the OCP land use designation, an OCP Amendment would also be required.

OCP Amendment and Rezoning applications are approved by Council in accordance with Part 14, Division 5 of the Local Government Act.

Rezoning Process

Review the steps below to understand how rezoning applications are processed.

Image	Step 1: Submit Your Application Submit a Development and Land Use Application online with all minimum application requirements attached as referenced in the Application Checklist. If attachments exceed 25 MB, documents may be sent separately by email to planning@colwood.ca
Image	Step 2: Application Review & Fees Staff will review the submission for completeness and issue a fee slip for the application payment. Refer to the Fees and Charges Bylaw, 1603, 2016  for applicable fees.
Image	Step 3: Technical Review Staff will review application for compliance with applicable bylaws, plans and policies. Application will be referred to relevant internal departments and external parties for comment.
Image	Step 4: Address Review Comments Staff will provide comments for the applicant to address following internal and external application review. Additional rounds of comments of resubmissions of documents may be required.
Image	Step 5: Community Engagement & Notification Sign Applicants must conduct community engagement and post a Development Notification Sign on the property throughout the review process. A sign template will be provided. See Colwood Land Use Application Procedures Bylaw, 1998 for more details.
Image	Step 6: Staff Report Presentation Once the application is deemed ready, staff will prepare a report outlining the proposal and providing a recommendation to Committee and Council.
Image	Step 7: Planning and Land Use Committee Review The application will be presented to the Planning and Land Use Committee. Applicants are strongly encouraged to attend to answer questions.
Image	Step 8: Public Notification Prior to Council introduction, property owners within 100 metres of the site will be notified and invited to provide feedback. See Colwood Land Use Application Procedures Bylaw for more details.
Image	Step 9: External Public Notice Notice of the application will be published on the City's website and in the newspaper at least seven days prior to Council meeting for public feedback.
Image	Step 10: Council Consideration Council will consider committee recommendations. Staff or applicant may need to answer questions and public may provide input. Some rezoning applications require a Public Hearing. If one is required, the public will have an opportunity to provide feedback prior to Council consideration.
Image	Step 11: Bylaw Readings The proposed amending bylaw needs to receive 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd reading from Council prior to adoption, which may be completed over at one or multiple Council meetings.
Image	If Application is Denied In the case that Council denies the application, no refunds will be issues and the same application will not be reconsidered for at least 12 months.
Image	If Application is Approved If Council decides to move forward with the application, all requirements, including covenants, road dedications, agreements, or Provincial approvals, must be completed before final adoption.
Image	Step 12: Final Adoption The amending bylaw with completed requirements will be considered by Council. Once adopted by Council resolution, rezoning will be complete and the Colwood Land Use Bylaw, 1989 will be amended accordingly.

Ready to Apply?

Once you are ready to apply, ensure you have completed the  Rezoning/OCP Amendment Application Checklist, and submit the online  Development and Land Use Application form.

Contact Us

If you have any additional questions about rezonings, includinjg timelines and requirements, please contact the Planning department at 250-294-8153 or planning@colwood.ca.