The City of Vernon is updating its Zoning Bylaw ahead of the implementation of new provincial housing legislation.
Starting June 30, 2024, the City will be transitioning Zoning Bylaw 5000 (ZBL 5000) to Zoning Bylaw 6000 (ZBL 6000), which will align with Bill 44 – Housing Statutes (Residential Development) Amendment Act and Bill 47 – Housing Statutes (Transit-Oriented Areas) Amendment Act.
The transition will have an affect on several application types, including zoning amendments, development permits, subdivisions, and building permits.
“In preparation for ZBL 6000, staff will process as many active applications as possible,” said Terry Barton, Director Planning and Community Services. “While focusing on instream applications, staff will ensure that each application is reviewed based on its individual merits, upholding the City's standards for development quality and compliance.”
Key details include:
- Developments with issued permits or complete building permit applications under ZBL 5000 before the effective date of ZBL 6000 will be processed under ZBL 5000. Building permits under ZBL 5000 must be issued or rejected within 12 months of ZBL 6000's effective date.
- Complete subdivision applications submitted before ZBL 6000's effective date will also adhere to ZBL 5000's regulations for a 12-month period, unless the applicant opts for ZBL 6000.
Applicants are encouraged to address any outstanding conditions promptly to facilitate the timely completion of their applications.
The City of Vernon remains committed to ensuring a transparent, guided, and consistent approach during this transition period, striving for the betterment of the community's development environment.
Visit vernon.ca/zoning for the latest information. For more information on the new Provincial housing legislation, please visit the Province of British Columbia’s Local Government Housing Initiatives website, or contact the City of Vernon’s Planning Department at planning@vernon.ca or at 250-550-3634.
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