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, primarily the Official Community Plan and the Land Use Bylaw.
Looking for application forms? Visit the Applications, Guides and Permits page.
Official Community Plan
The Official Community Plan 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
Official Community Plan Bylaw, Maps & Schedules
Bowen Island Municipality has begun working on an OCP update. To ensure the updated OCP represents the needs of our diverse community, it will be informed by direct engagement with the community.
Stay tuned for additional information coming soon!
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
Land Use Bylaw Maps & Schedules
Amendments should be consistent with the Islands Trust Policy Statement and require approval from the Islands Trust.
Building Bylaw
Building and renovations are regulated by the Building Bylaw. This bylaw includes regulations for construction, alteration, repair and demolition of buildings and structures.
Property Development Bylaws
There are several other property development bylaws. They are:
- Subdivision and Development Servicing Bylaw No. 447, 2017 (Consolidated July 2023)
- Site Alteration Bylaw No.568, 2022
- Development Approval and Procedures Bylaw No. 494, 2019 (Consolidated June 2023
Looking for other bylaws? Check out our Bylaw page.
Questions? Contact the Planning Department at planning@bimbc.ca or 604-947-4255 ext. 6