Zoning designations are used to regulate land use and development standards for properties in Qualicum Beach. A property’s zoning specifies the permitted uses as well as regulations for building heights, setbacks from property lines, structures and other requirements.
An amendment to the Town of Qualicum Beach Zoning Bylaw is required to propose a land use, development, business, or type of housing that is not permitted under the current zoning for the property.
A “Zoning Amendment” or “Rezoning” involves amending the land use designation of a property in the Zoning Bylaw. For example, a change may be requested from R2 zoning (residential) to C1 zoning (commercial) to accommodate a business on the property.
Occasionally, an application will involve an amendment to the wording of the Zoning Bylaw. For example, an application to permit a new activity or use with an existing commercial zone, such as adding a hair salon to a zone that did not list it as an allowable use.
Very rarely, a new zone may be created that is specific to a proposal. This is often related to comprehensive or mixed-use developments.
Check the current property zoning to determine whether a use is allowed under that land use designation or if an application for a zoning amendment is required. Review the applicable development guidelines, regulations, and the amendment process:
Town of Qualicum Beach Zoning Bylaw
The Official Community Plan (OCP) will help determine whether a proposal is consistent with the land use designation. If not, an OCP Amendment will be required as well.
Ensure that your proposal meets the required guidelines and regulations.
The Town of Qualicum Beach has identified Development Permit Areas in the Official Community Plan. Each area has specific guidelines for development and construction. These areas are:
These schedules in the OCP define the Town’s Development Permit Areas:
If a change to the Zoning Bylaw is needed but does not affect use or density, then a Development Variance Permit may be applied for.
Book a meeting to discuss a proposal with the Planning Department. Staff will advise on specific application requirements, required studies, fees, and policy support, as well as any potential constraints. Prepare for this meeting by developing proposal concepts and comprehensive questions.
To book a pre-application meeting, email [email protected]
A completed Zoning Bylaw Amendment Application must be accompanied by a detailed description and drawings of the proposed land use. Other documents that may be required include:
Zoning Bylaw Amendment Application Form
Combined Development and Bylaw Amendment Application
Applications and payment must be submitted together, by one of the following methods:
Town Hall hours of operation are Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Once an application has been reviewed it is referred to other staff and outside agencies, if applicable, such as the Qualicum Beach Fire Department, Infrastructure Services and the Ministry of Transportation. Applicants will be contacted and advised of additional requirements once the Planning Department receives comments.
Town Staff will present the application to Council for their consideration. Council could proceed with the application through First, Second, Third readings, and Adoption, or they could deny the application at any point in the process. The application could also be referred to the Advisory Planning Commission at any point in the zoning amendment process. Once a decision is made by Council, applicants will be notified of the outcome.
Applicants for an OCP, zoning bylaw or land use contract amendment are required to post Bylaw Amendment Application sign(s) on the subject property as outlined in Schedule B of the Town of Qualicum Beach’s Development Application Procedures and Fees Bylaw No. 605, 2007.
This sign must be posted on the property a minimum of ten days prior to Second reading of the amendment bylaw by Council.
The timeline varies by project and depends on the completeness of the application and supporting submissions, the complexity of the proposed project, current workload of staff and Council, and timing of Council meetings.
Applications that address the policy issues, support the OCP, provide a high standard of urban design, and address neighbourhood concerns will proceed more quickly. Applicants are advised to familiarize themselves with all regulations surrounding development.
See the Council Meeting Schedule for a calendar of upcoming Council meetings; these dates should be considered for the application timeline.
The Zoning Bylaw Amendment Application fee is $4,000 and should be submitted to the Town of Qualicum Beach with your application package.
Applications and payment must be submitted together, by one of the following methods:
Town Hall hours of operation are Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
