Courtenay City Council has approved updated Development Cost Charges (DCCs) and Amenity Cost Charges (ACCs) that take effect April 30, 2026.
DCCs and ACCs are one-time fees developers pay to help fund the infrastructure and amenities needed to support community growth. The City last updated its DCC rates in 2016; the new rates reflect changes in infrastructure planning, growth projections and provincial legislation.
Applicants and developers with applications already in progress should check whether their project qualifies for in‑stream protection, which may allow them to pay fees at the previous rates for up to one year after the new bylaws are adopted. To qualify, an application must have been submitted before bylaw adoption, be complete to the City’s satisfaction and have all required fees paid. Different criteria apply depending on whether the application is for a building permit, rezoning, development permit or subdivision.
In-stream protection expires one year after the bylaw adoption date. After that, all applications — including any extensions — are subject to the new rates.
For full details on the updated rates, in‑stream protection criteria and payment options, visit the Development Cost Charges page (www.courtenay.ca/dcc).
Fast facts
- New DCC and ACC rates take effect April 30, 2026.
- Applications submitted before bylaw adoption may qualify for in‑stream protection, allowing projects to pay the previous rates for up to one year if they meet completeness and approval criteria.
- In‑stream protection expires one year after bylaw adoption. After that point, all applications are subject to the new rates, including any extensions.
- Some developments are exempt from DCCs under provincial law, including small self‑contained units (under 29 m²), places of worship, low‑value building permits and development where DCCs have already been paid.
- As of January 1, 2026, developers can choose to pay in two instalments rather than all at once.