Thinking of subdividing your property in Courtenay? Here's what you need to know — from preparing your application to registering your final plan.
Access the Subdivision Application Form [PDF/241KB] and follow the steps outlined below:
Step 1: Meet with Planning Staff
- Before submitting an application, contact the Planning Division to book a pre-application meeting. This is your opportunity to:
- Ask questions
- Review applicable zoning, policies, and servicing requirements
- Confirm fees and documents needed
Tip: Come prepared with a sketch of your proposal and any specific questions.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Once your plans are ready and you've gathered the required documents:
- Contact Planning staff for a final pre-submission review
- You'll receive a secure link to upload your application package
- Instructions for application fees and payment will be provided
Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Step 3: Review Process
Your application will be reviewed by:
- The City’s Development Application Review Team (DART)
This internal team includes staff from planning, engineering, building, and public works. - External agencies such as utilities or provincial ministries, if required
This step ensures your proposal meets technical, legal, and servicing requirements.
Step 4: Preliminary Layout Review (PLR)
If your application meets City requirements, the Approving Officer will issue a Preliminary Layout Review (PLR) letter.
The PLR outlines:
- Conditions to be completed before final approval
- Required infrastructure upgrades (e.g. road access, water, sewer)
- Legal agreements or permits
- An estimate of Development Cost Charges (DCCs) and municipal fees
The PLR is valid for one year, with a possible one-year extension if sufficient progress is demonstrated.
Step 5: Meet PLR Conditions
You are responsible for completing all the requirements outlined in the PLR. This may include:
- Engineering drawings and reports
- Road and utility upgrades
- Environmental protection measures
- Legal documents (e.g. easements or covenants)
Step 6: Complete or Secure Works and Services
All required works must be installed at the applicant’s expense before final subdivision approval, unless you enter into a Servicing Agreement with the City.
A Servicing Agreement includes:
- A cost estimate certified by a Professional Engineer
- Financial security (based on the estimate plus contingency)
- Liability insurance if work extends onto City-controlled land
The City’s Engineering Division will confirm the exact requirements.
Step 7: Final Subdivision Approval
Once all PLR conditions are met:
- Submit a cover letter requesting final approval
- Provide the final survey plan (prepared by a B.C. Land Surveyor)
- Ensure all fees are paid, including application, connection, and DCCs
- Confirm all property taxes are paid in full
- Include all supporting documents listed in the PLR
The Approving Officer will sign the final plan if everything is in order.
Step 8: Register the Plan
After approval, you (or your solicitor/surveyor) must register the subdivision plan at the Land Title Office along with any required legal documents (e.g. rights-of-way, covenants).
Registration must occur within two months of approval.
Timeline and Costs
The timeline depends on:
- Application complexity
- Property-specific servicing needs
- How quickly the applicant fulfills requirements
Typical costs include:
- Application and processing fees
- Development Cost Charges (DCCs)
- Surveying, engineering, and legal fees
- Costs for infrastructure upgrades
For current fees, refer to the Fees and Charges Bylaw.
Applying for New or Upgraded Services
If your subdivision requires new or upgraded water, sewer, or drainage services:
- Submit a complete Servicing Application Package (5 pages total)