Development Permit Areas
A Development Permit Area is an area the Official Community Plan designates to:
- ensure the protection of the water quality and fisheries value of a lake or river
- protect the aesthetic and scenic values of an area, lake or river
- protect the natural environment
- protect development from hazardous conditions
- establish guidelines about the form and character of commercial development
Any buildings and structures must be located at least 15 m from the natural boundary of the high watermark and shoreline vegetation in the first 15 metres of the shoreline must be retained or replanted.
Lakeshore Development Guidelines and Information
When a Development Permit is required
For property located in a Development Permit Area, a Development Permit is required for:
- subdividing land
- constructing, adding onto or altering a building or structure
- altering land, including landscaping and clearing
- installing sewage disposal systems including pit privies
Development permits for subdivision, commercial, industrial or institutional purposes require Regional Board approval.
If you require a Development Permit, you must submit an application to the Regional District. You will need to provide a sketch of the proposed and existing development on your property. Additionally, you will need to meet with Regional District staff on-site to review the application. Applications can take between one and five weeks, though the Planning Department may be able to provide a more specific estimate.
Once a Development Permit is issued, a notice will be registered on the property title.
Timeline and fees
Information about timeline and fees for development permits, visit the Land Use Permit Fees, Forms and Timelines page.