The strong sense of community on Bowen Island has shaped a special place for connecting with what matters most. The Planning Department helps to ensure that growth and development on the island continues to honour and contribute to the lifestyle that is so valued by the community.
Are you planning to develop property? Check with the Planning Department to make sure you have all the necessary approvals and permits for your proposed development before you start any work.
The Planning Department is involved in the following areas:
Land Use Planning
Land use planning considers where and how much of the island should be used for certain things like housing, parks, commerce and industry. This is done through plans, policies and bylaws, chiefly the Official Community Plan and the Land Use Bylaw.
Development Approvals
Development may include subdivision, site preparation, building, or even tree removal. A number of approvals or permits may be required to ensure that development is done responsibly, including a:
- Rezoning approval
- Subdivision approval
- Development Permit
- Development Variance Permit
Building and Renovations
In addition to any required development approvals, a Building Permit may be needed to ensure buildings are safe for their intended purpose.
Public Notices
Some planning applications involve changes to bylaws and plans. Public notice is given for such proposed changes and opportunities are provided for public comment.
The Planning and Building department is committed to providing an exceptional level of service to the public by working directly with applicants to guide them and provide information, and to develop Council reports and referrals for each process as defined by the Local Government Act and conduct local consultation and notification when required.
Service Profile
The core activities of the Planning Department include current and long-range planning, which include:
- Reviewing and guiding development applications through the appropriate permitting process and Provincial and/or Federal regulations
- Reviewing and amending the Official Community Plan and Land Use bylaw
- Interpretation and application of various development control functions
- Processing of subdivision, development permit and development variance permit applications
- Responding to inquiries from the public, developers and contractors, and other stakeholders in planning processes
- Working with council and its committees with regard to specific Council directed projects
The Planning & Building Team
Island Community Planner: Responsible for the day-to-day administration of planning projects and providing planning guidance and expertise to Council, staff, and the public in order for Council to achieve development objectives while meeting community needs.
Planner 1: Under the direction of the Manager of Planning & Development, the Planner 1 is responsible for select development applications, planning inquires and supporting the Manager of Planning as required. Undertakes long-range planning projects as required.
Building & Planning Clerk: Responsible for all secretarial and clerical related functions for the Building Inspection and Planning Department.
Building Inspector: Responsible for the administration and enforcement of the BC Building Code and the Building Bylaw. Reviews and inspects Building permit applications and ongoing construction.