Project Background

A DPA is an important tool used in the development process to protect the natural environment, to protect development from hazardous conditions, to guide the form and character of development, to promote energy or water conservation, or to promote reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The RDN designates DPAs in its seven official community plans (OCPs) for a variety of purposes as enabled by the Local Government Act. Current DPAs can be accessed within each OCP from this webpage: www.rdn.bc.ca/community-plans

In an area where a DPA is designated, a development permit must first be obtained prior to certain types of development such as subdivision, construction, or land alteration. A map in the OCP indicates where the DPA is designated and text of the DPA indicates for what types of development a permit is required.

In the RDN, there are currently forty-nine development permit areas in seven OCPs adopted between 1997 and 2017. Due to changes to best practices, experience of working with existing DPAs and changes in the region, the DPA guidelines established for the same purpose vary from one area to another.

All seven OCPs designate TUP areas but vary in terminology, uses and conditions. Standardizing DPAs and TUP areas will ensure today's best practices are adopted throughout the electoral areas which will result in consistent requirements for applicants and a more effective means of implementing the of the DPAs.