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.

Land use planning applications include:

  • Official Community Plan Amendment
  • Land Use Bylaw Amendment (Rezoning)
  • Temporary Use Permit

Official Community Plan

The Official Community Plan (OCP) is a legal document providing a long-range vision for the development of Bowen Island. It is designed to balance the Island’s current and future social, environmental, and economic needs by:

  • Designating general land uses and densities across the island
  • Providing a policy framework to guide and manage the following aspects of development:
    • Natural environment
    • Land use management
    • Transportation
    • Public utilities
    • Parks and trails
    • Housing
    • Arts and culture
    • Economic development

Land Use Designation Map – long-term vision for land use on the island

Official Community Plan Maps & Schedules

Official Community Plan Amendments

Property owners and developers may propose development that does not align with the policies within the Official Community Plan.  In this case, they may request an amendment to the OCP.  Examples of common OCP amendments would be changes to the permitted uses or density allowed on a piece of property.  Amendments are made by bylaw at the discretion of Council. Amendments should be consistent with the Islands Trust Policy Statement and require approval from the Islands Trust.

Also, consider incorporating Active Design in your proposal whenever possible!

Apply for an Official Community Plan Amendment

Land Use Bylaw

The Land Use Bylaw (LUB) regulates the use of land, building, and structures on the island, and must be consistent with policies contained in the Official Community Plan. The LUB defines legal zones that specify:

  • Permitted uses
  • The size, height, and siting of buildings and structures
  • Lot coverage
  • Minimum lot area
  • Parking standards

Zoning Map – look up the zoning for a property

Land Use Bylaw Maps & Schedules

Land Use Bylaw Amendments

Property owners and developers may propose development that does not conform to the regulations of the Land Use Bylaw.  In this case, they may request an amendment to the LUB.  Examples of common LUB amendments are rezonings.  LUB amendments must be consistent with applicable OCP policies. Amendments are made by bylaw at the discretion of Council. Amendments should be consistent with the Islands Trust Policy Statement and require approval from the Islands Trust.

Also, consider incorporating Active Design in your proposal whenever possible!

Apply for a Land Use Bylaw Amendment (Rezoning)

Temporary Use Permit

An Official Community Plan may designate areas in which temporary uses may occur by means of a Temporary Use Permit, despite what is indicated in the Land Use Bylaw. The Temporary Use Permit allows for specified use on a property, for a specified period (up to 3 years). The Bowen Island Municipality can designate areas where a temporary use may be allowed. The Permit may also specify general conditions regarding the issuance of permits in those areas.

Questions? Please contact planning@bimbc.ca

Last Updated on 2024-09-20 at 08:57 AM