In 2023 the Province of BC enacted legislation to increase density and housing availability throughout municipalities in BC. The legislation is province-wide and the Town of Qualicum Beach is mandated to undertake a series of bylaw updates and policy reviews to meet the requirements.
Following are some of the Provincial Housing Changes being implemented by the province:
Bill 35 is aimed at addressing the housing crisis and regulating short-term rental listings, with the goal to convert more units into long-term rentals. The legislation will impact short-term vacation rentals (STVRs) in Qualicum Beach as of May 1, 2024. The Town’s zoning regulations do not permit STVRs in residential areas, except those designated as Bed and Breakfasts.
These changes come into effect on June 30, 2024, and require significant updates to the Town’s current zoning bylaws. While the changes will allow for infill housing on single-family and duplex parcels, the Town is working with policy tools to retain the character of Qualicum Beach neighbourhoods while still achieving the province’s housing objectives. The updated bylaws will be brought to Council at the May 22 Regular Council meeting and will include changes to permitted density, maximum height, minimum setbacks, parking requirements, parcel coverage and other land use controls.
