Development engineering

Subdivision

Subdivision is the process of changing legal property boundaries to create new parcels of land. The main types include:

  • Fee simple: Splitting land into two or more separate lots.
  • Bare land strata: Multiple lots within one property, with shared common land.
  • Building strata: Individual units within a building, each with a separate title.
  • Phased strata: A strata development built in stages.
  • Strata conversion: Turning an existing building, such as an apartment, into separate unit.

Why City approval is needed

The Approving Officer makes final decisions on subdivisions based on provincial laws and City bylaws. They ensure new subdivisions meet zoning, infrastructure and environmental requirements. Key considerations include:

  • Lot sizes and shapes.
  • Road access and emergency services.
  • Parks, open spaces and walkways.
  • Environmental protection.
  • Compatibility with surrounding areas.
  • Sewer, water and drainage services.

Subdivision and Development Servicing Bylaw

The Subdivision and Development Servicing Bylaw regulates how land is subdivided and developed in Courtenay. It sets standards for infrastructure like roads, sidewalks and utilities.

View the Subdivision and Development Servicing Bylaw

If you're subdividing land or applying for a building permit, you must install the required infrastructure. These requirements are explained in the bylaw.

All work must follow the bylaw’s design and construction standards.

The Approved Products List shows which materials are allowed, restricted or not permitted for work in the city.

What the bylaw covers

The bylaw helps make sure new developments meet community needs. It updates design and construction standards to reflect current practices.

It includes requirements for:

  • water, storm and sanitary sewer systems
  • roads, curbs, gutters and sidewalks
  • traffic signals and street lighting
  • street trees

Why the bylaw matters

The bylaw:

  • creates clear and consistent rules for new developments
  • sets minimum infrastructure standards for new projects
  • reflects how the City of Courtenay currently builds infrastructure

The technical standards in the bylaw are based on Master Municipal Construction Documents Association (MMCD), with extra details specific to Courtenay.

By clearly outlining what’s required, the bylaw helps make the development process more fair and transparent.

Subdivision approval process

Typically, a preliminary application is received by the Approving Officer for any subdivision of land in Courtenay.

Approved Products List

These products are approved for the construction of City-owned civil engineering projects.

Development Cost Charges

Development Cost Charges (DCCs) are fees levied on new developments.

Placement of fill

Application for placement of fill and removal of soil.
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