Development permit areas (DPAs)

What are development permits?

Development permits regulate the look and design of buildings, landscaping, signage, lighting, and parking. They also help protect farmland, the environment, and areas at risk from natural hazards such as steep slopes.

Development permits don't change land use or density. If your project involves a land use change, you'll need a zoning amendment. See the Zoning Bylaw page for more information.

A development permit is legally binding for both the City and permit-holder. It may include conditions like construction timelines or security deposits (also known as bonding).

When is a development permit needed?

A development permit is needed for certain activities in areas identified in the Official Community Plan (OCP) as Development Permit Areas (DPAs). These include:

  • Subdividing land (farm protection, environmental protection, hazard areas)
  • Constructing or altering buildings and parking areas
  • Work in or near environmentally sensitive or hazardous areas

For most form and character DPAs, a permit is required regardless of where the property is located in Courtenay.

Exemptions

Some projects do not require a development permit. For example, single-family homes and duplexes are exempt from form and character DPAs, even in heritage areas (as per Bylaws 3176 and 3177, adopted May 7, 2025).

City staff can confirm if your project qualifies for an exemption.

Types of DPAs in Courtenay 

There are five types of development permit areas:

  • DPA-1: Commercial, industrial, large-scale residential, and mixed-use
  • DPA-2: Small-scale multi-unit residential
  • DPA-3: Farm protection
  • DPA-4: Environmental protection
  • DPA-5: Hazard protection (steep slopes)

Each DPA has specific guidelines in the Zoning Bylaw that must be followed.

Recent changes

On May 7, 2025, Council adopted updates to the OCP and Zoning Bylaw to streamline the DPA-1 and DPA-2 guidelines. These changes are now in effect.

While the main bylaws are being updated, please refer to the amendment bylaws:

There are no changes to DPA-3, DPA-4 or DPA-5. Current guidelines still apply:

Resources

Applying for a development permit

Access the development permit application form

The application process is outlined below.

Need a variance?

If your proposal doesn’t meet zoning rules like height or setbacks, you may need a Development Variance Permit.

Last updated: