Development Permits

A development permit regulates the form and character of buildings, signage, landscaping, screening, lighting and parking. It also ensures the protection of the environment, farming areas and developments in hazardous locations like steep slopes.

A development permits is binding for both the City and permit-holder. It may include conditions like construction timelines and bonding, but cannot change land use or density. (Zoning amendments are required for that. See Zoning Bylaw for more information.)

Some land uses and areas in Courtenay require a development permit, as outlined in the Official Community Plan (OCP). Designated areas are listed below and shown on Maps D-1 to D-7 in the OCP (pages 202–212), or on the interactive map. For most form and character permits, a development permit is required regardless of location.

Council considered amendments to form and character Development Permit Area requirements for infill housing at the April 2, 2025, Council meeting. To learn more, visit the project page on Engage Comox Valley.

Development Permit Areas (DPAs)

There are five types of DPAs:

  1. Commercial, industrial, mixed-use and multi-residential developments with three or more units.
  2. Intensive residential development, including duplexes, detached secondary residences, single-residential homes in areas with special heritage considerations, bare land stratas and mobile home parks.
  3. Farm protection.
  4. Environmental protection.
  5. Hazard protection (steep slopes).

Each DPA has specific guidelines in the zoning bylaw that must be followed during development.

When is a development permit required?

A development permit is required for activities in established DPAs, including:

  • Subdivision (for farm protection, environmental and hazardous condition DPAs).
  • Building or land alterations (construction, additions or changes to parking areas).
  • Work in or adjacent to environmentally sensitive or hazardous areas.

Some exemptions apply. View DPA exemptions [PDF - 73 KB].

DPAs in Courtenay

For more information on each DPA and guidelines, refer to:

Applying for a development permit

Access the development permit application form. The application process is outlined below:

1. Research

  • Identify the DPA for your property.
  • Review the DPA guidelines in the Zoning Bylaw.
  • Ensure your project meets zoning regulations. If not, a Development Variance Permit may be required.
  • When working near environmentally sensitive areas, the City encourages applicants to consult the Comox Valley Conservation Partnership for local knowledge about these areas.
  • For environmentally sensitive sites, an environmental impact assessment is required. See Terms of reference for Environmental Impact Assessments [PDF - 183 KB]
  • K’ómoks First Nation Cultural Heritage Investigation Permit (CHIP) is needed for some areas near watercourses or with high archeological potential. Contact K’ómoks First Nation at 250-339-4545 ext. 112, or visit their website.
  • The Province may also have archeological requirements. Visit their website for more information.

2. Discuss or meet with Planning staff

  • Contact Planning staff to discuss your proposal.
  • When you have prepared sufficient information for review, staff will arrange a meeting to discuss your proposal with you, including requirements, fees and policies.

3. Prepare and submit your application

  • Open the development permit application form. (You can start your application, save your progress and return to it later.)
  • Gather required documents identified by Planning staff.
  • Complete the application and pay the required fees

4.  Referrals and review

  • Staff will send your application to relevant internal departments and external agencies for review.
  • You may be asked to provide additional information or studies.
  • Once complete, staff prepare a technical report for the Director of Development Services.

5. Decision

  • The Director of Development Services reviews your application and may approve the permit, approve with conditions, refuse the permit or refer the application to Council for further review.
  • If approved, a Notice of Permit is registered on the property title at the Land Title Office.

Need to vary zoning regulations (e.g., setbacks, height)? You may require a Development Variance Permit (DVP) instead.