Official Community Plan

The Courtenay Official Community Plan (OCP) Bylaw 3070 was adopted on July 25, 2022.

In 2024, the Province introduced new legislationrequiringlocal governments regularly review and update their OCPs. The goal is to make sure there is enough land to meet the community’s five- and 20-year housing needs projections, as identified through their housing needs reports.

What is the OCP

The OCP is a long-term vision for Courtenay. It guides decisions on land use, housing, transportation, infrastructure and more.

The OCP ensures that new developments and City services align with the community’s priorities. It applies to the entire municipality and helps Council make decisions on:

  • growth and land use
  • streets and transportation
  • affordable housing
  • the natural environment
  • parks and recreation
  • arts, culture and heritage
  • food systems
  • economic development

The OCP is built around four core directions, as symbolized by the compass:

  • reconciliation
  • community well-being
  • equity
  • climate action

Local area plans

Local area plans provide detailed guidance for specific parts of the city. Currently, the OCP includes:

OCP maps

The OCP contains maps showing land use and key features. You can download them here:

Development guidelines and permits

If you are planning a new development, review the development standards policies reference guide [PDF - 313 KB].

Some projects need a development permit. This applies to:

  • large buildings
  • infill residential development
  • areas near environmentally sensitive lands, steep slopes or farms

Development permits regulate form and character, signage, siting, landscaping, screening, lighting and parking. The OCP designates these areas, but guidelines are now part of Zoning Bylaw No. 2500.

For details, visit the development permits page.

Applying for an OCP amendment

An OCP amendment application is required when a proposed development does not align with the objectives and policies in the OCP or does not match its land use designation(s).

OCP amendments are rare and are usually submitted with a zoning amendment application, following a similar process.

A public hearing is always required.

View the Zoning Bylaw page for instructions and to access the application form.