Planning Applications, Guides & Permits

Are you planning to conduct development on your property? 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 safely and responsibly.

For more information on the process, please refer to the list below for links to application forms and guides. The development flowchart below can also assist you in following the process.

Looking for Building Permit Information? Visit the Building Permit Applications & Guides page.

Didn’t find the information you were looking for? Visit the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page.

Application Forms & Guides

Prior to completing an application form and preparing your development application package, it is recommended to review the application guide for an overview of what to submit, what to expect during the application and where to find additional information.

Subdivision Application

Subdivision Approval

• Subdivision Application Guide
• Subdivision Application Form

Lot Consolidation
If you want to amalgamate two or more properties, you will need to apply to the British Columbia Land Title Office.

Land Use Planning Applications

Official Community Plan (OCP) Amendment

• OCP Amendment Guide
• OCP Amendment Application Form

Land Use Bylaw Amendment (Rezoning)

• Rezoning Guide
• Rezoning Application Form

Temporary Use Permit (TUP)

• Temporary Use Permit Guide
• Temporary Use Permit Application Form

Development Applications

Development Variance Permit (DVP)

• Development Variance Permit Guide
• Development Variance Permit Application Form

Board of Variance (BOV)

• Board of Variance Guide
• Board of Variance Application Form

Development Permit (DP)

• Development Permit Guide
• Development Permit Application Form
• Environmental Assessment – Terms of Reference
• Village Revitalization Application Checklist
• Development Permit Brochure

Site Alteration Permit

• Site Alteration Permit Information Sheet
• Site Alteration Permit Application Form

Covenant Amendment

• Covenant Amendment Application Form

There is no covenant amendment guide, please contact the planning department directly with covenant questions.

Looking for a covenant? Property owners can contact the BC Land Title Office for copies of their covenants, easements and statutory rights-of-way at https://ltsa.ca/property-owners/
BIM can also secure copies of covenants for property owners for a fee.

How to Apply

All applications are to be submitted in pdf format to planning@bimbc.ca. Attachments are limited to 10 MB. 

Payment Methods

You can pay by cash, debit, or cheque at Bowen Island Municipal Hall. Or you can pay directly to the Finance Department at finance@bimbc.ca. You must reference your permit application number with your payment and can only do so once we’ve confirmed receipt of your application.

Additional Resources

Additional forms, policies or information that may be relevant to your application can be found below.

Public Notice Sign
Letter of Agency – Assign an Agent to Act on Your Behalf

BC Archaeological Information Request Form & Brochure
Site Disclosure Statement & Information

Green Shores Brochure
Active Design Information

Unsure about what may be involved or what permits you may need? 
Contact the planning department at planning@bimbc.ca or 604-947-4255 ext. 6