Unfortunately, the CVRD has a policy where we cannot fax or email survey plans. If you require a survey plan immediately, the CVRD suggests contacting BC Land Title and Survey.

If this is the case, then please contact the CVRD mapping department. Please provide the address found on the CVRD map as well as the address known to you. For more information please call 250-746-2500 ext 2221 or email.

The legal description for your property is included on your tax notice. You can also get your legal description from our interactive map, or you can contact the CVRD mapping department and we would be happy to assist. 250-746-2500 ext 2221 or email.

A PID is a Parcel Identifier.  It is a nine (9) digit number that is unique to your property. (e.g. 000-000-000).  You can determine your PID on either the interactive map, or you contact the CVRD mapping department and we would be happy to provide it to you.  Call 250-746-2500 ext 2221 or email.

Common CVRD map data is available on the CVRD geospatial data download page.

Occasionally, the CVRD may advertise opportunities that are temporary, part time, casual, and/or seasonal in nature. These opportunities will be placed on the Employment Opportunities page as they become available to the public and may also be advertised in local newspapers. Summer young worker positions are hired for a 2 to 4 month period commencing in May of each year. Examples of the types of summer young worker opportunities include: Parks Crew, Recreation and Summer Camp, Lifeguarding and Swim Instruction, Solid Waste Management, Land Use Services (Community Planning), and Engineering Services.

Any local government that has adopted a zoning bylaw or rural land use bylaw must establish a Board of Variance (BOV). See Section 536 of the British Columbia Local Government Act. The Board of Variance is an independent board consisting of three volunteer members of the public who have been appointed by the Board of the Regional District. These members may not be an officer or employee of the local government; they do not have representation on the Regional District Board of Directors.

The Board of Variance reviews applications and makes decisions on minor variances to zoning and rural land use bylaws when it is illustrated by the applicant that compliance would cause undue hardship. Click here to read the Board of Variance Bylaw.

The online Web Map allows anyone to search their property and find important information like zoning, OCP designations, development permit areas, service areas and more. To use the Web Map simply go to the Web Map and click on desktop icon (see image #1). From there a disclaimer statement will appear, click 'accept'. The map will launch and show the entire Regional District. To find your property you can either search by scrolling in and navigating to it, or use the address tool or parcel identifier (PID) for bare land (see image #2). Once you have found the property, use the 'identify tool' (top left - see image #3) by clicking on the tool and then on the property. By doing this, information should populate on the left side. From there you can click on any of the items shown in that list for more information. Links to other relevant bylaws are also provided (see image #4). 

Development Permit Areas (DPAs) require permits under certain circumstances. Local governments have the authority to designate development permit areas in an official community plan. These identify locations that need special treatment for certain purposes including the protection of development from hazards, establishing objectives for form and character in specified circumstances, or revitalization of a commercial use area. This authority can also be used to achieve climate action goals for energy conservation, water conservation and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Unless a development permit is obtained, development in such areas is restricted.

If an official community plan designates development permit areas, then the implementing guidelines may be located in the official community plan or in the zoning bylaw.

Zoning is a land management tool used by local governments to separate uses. Each of the nine Electoral Areas has a Zoning Bylaw with regulations specific for each zone, including; use, density and siting (e.g. setbacks). Permitted uses are identified for each zone additionally, each Zoning Bylaw is equipped with a section on definitions and general regulations. The CVRD web map can help you quickly determine what your property is zoned. For more information on how to use the Web Map see "What is the Web Map and how do I use it?"

The BC Building Code requires all dwellings to be code compliant, have permanent foundations and be connected to an approved septic system. It is not the size that counts, but the connection to services and compliance with the BC Building Code. The zoning bylaws regulate the maximum size of a dwelling but not the minimum (except some in Area D). Note: tiny homes on wheels, or recreational vehicles on wheels, are not permitted to be used as full time dwellings because they do not meet BC Building Code Regulations.

No. An RV is a recreational vehicle designed to be used as temporary quarters for recreational, camping or travel use. Currently in the CVRD, RVs are not a permitted use in any of the zoning bylaws because RVs do not meet the BC Building Code regulations for dwellings.

The CVRD does not have a tree cutting bylaw. The CVRD does, however, regulate the cutting of trees in certain areas that have been designated as a Development Permit Area (DPA) and may even prohibit the cutting of trees and other vegetation. The Riparian Area Protection DPA is one of these areas that will require a permit prior to cutting or removal of any vegetation. Other areas that may require a permit prior to cutting trees are areas designated as a sensitive ecosystem and/or steep slope. 

Tree cutting should occur during identified low-risk timing periods (mid-September to January). If tree cutting must occur outside this time window, a thorough nest search should be conducted. Removal or modification of a nest tree requires written permission (permit) from the Province (MoE) and may also require a federal permit.

No. The CVRD does not have the necessary legislative powers to require business licenses. Please note that any construction or renovation work for a new business (e.g. new kitchen), may require a development permit and/or a building permit. A sign permit may also be required for any new signage (or the alteration of existing ones). You may also want to check with the Building Inspection Division that the building you are conducting your business in meets the BC Building Code requirements (e.g. certain uses have specific fire safety building requirements in the Building Code). Note: the zoning bylaws do regulate ‘home based businesses’, which regulate the size of the business space, parking and signage. 

Riparian areas can be defined as the area of land adjacent to a watercourse or body of water, a ditch, spring or wetland, whether or not usually containing water (see image below). The entire CVRD is within a Riparian Protection Development Permit Area (DPA) which means certain activities will require a development permit application prior to a building permit. It is the responsibility of individual property owner(s) to ensure there are no activities in the riparian area, or apply for a development permit. For more information on the Provincial regulation, please click here. For more information specific to CVRD requirements see pages 18 - 24 here.

Minimum parcel sizes and subdivision regulations are determined in the Zoning Bylaw (please note that each electoral area may have their own zoning bylaw, and each zone within the bylaw has its own minimum parcel size). Minimum parcel sizes depend on the level of servicing (e.g. community water and sewer services) - typically, the minimum parcel size will decrease as the level of servicing on a property increases. For example, a lot that is on well and septic will have a larger minimum parcel size than a lot that is serviced by community water and sewer. To determine if your property is, or can be, serviced with community water and/or sewer, please consult the Web Map and ensure the 'Utility' layers are checked on.

In addition, to the minimum parcel size, general subdivision regulations also apply. These refer to the subdivision of lots severed by a road, another parcel or jurisdictional boundary; boundary adjustments/parcel realignments; subdivision of parcels containing a water body, watercourse or wetland; panhandle parcels etc. Note: each zoning bylaw contains its own general subdivision regulations and it is important to know which electoral area your parcel is within.

To see whether or not your property is within the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) go to the online Web Map and search your property by scrolling, using an address or parcel identifier (PID). Once you have located your property, use the 'identify' tool (top left) and click on your property. Information should populate on the left with information like your zoning, and OCP designation. If your property is in the ALR you will see it listed in the items on the left. Please note: This mapping service is for general reference only. Mapping errors can occur. 

You may also consult the Agricultural Land Commission Mapping System. Note: If your property falls within the ALR, additional regulations may apply.

Chickens are becoming a popular land use activity as more people look to their own yards to provide some food security. Before you start your chicken coop plans, be sure to check your Zoning Bylaw to ensure that chickens and/or livestock are a permitted use on your property. Keep in mind that the zoning bylaw for each electoral area may address chickens differently - in some areas such as Electoral Areas A and C, there are specific regulations for the keeping of chickens while in other zoning bylaws the 'Agriculture' use covers all livestock. Be sure to read through your zone thoroughly and don't forget to check out the definitions at the beginning of the zoning bylaw for additional clarity.

Although 'Air B&B Inc.' is a specific short term rental marketing company, it is commonly used as a blanket term when talking about short term rentals. Zones that permit short term rentals are limited in the CVRD. Bed and breakfast short term rentals are permitted within most single-family dwellings, however they are regulated, and generally require that it be contained within a single family dwelling (not an accessory building), and that the owner reside in the single family dwelling. To determine if your property is within one of these areas, please consult the Zoning Bylaw to determine the permitted uses on your property. You can find your zone and a link to the zoning bylaw using the Web Map.  Note: secondary suites and accessory dwelling units/detached suites are typically intended for long term rentals.

A Building Permit (BP) is typically needed for the construction of any structure over 10m². You may also require a BP for any structural changes proposed to an existing building. For more information regarding the building permit process, please visit the Building Inspection webpage.  

A Development Permit (DP) is a land use permit used by local governments to review proposed developments to ensure they meet the policies and objectives of the Official Community Plan (OCP), and satisfy all required regulations in the zoning bylaw. A Development Permit may specify requirements respecting the character of development, including landscaping, and the siting, form, exterior design and finish of buildings and structures; environmental protection; protection from hazardous conditions and protection of farming. DP's may also impose conditions respecting the sequencing and timing of construction. Within designated Development Permit Areas (DPAs) land must not be subdivided or altered and buildings or structures cannot be constructed or altered, unless the owner has first obtained a DP. Once approved (by the General Manager or CVRD Board), the DP is registered against the title of the land and becomes binding on future land owners.

If you are planning to develop your property and it's located within one or more Development Permit Areas (DPAs), you will need a Development Permit (DP) prior to obtaining a Building Permit or obtaining subdivision approval, unless otherwise exempt. It is important to remember, a DP is not a building permit. To find out if your  project requires a DP application you can call staff or follow the instructions below:

1. Visit the online Web Map tool, search your property using the address tool or Parcel Identifier (PID)
2. Identify your property using the 'identify' tool (top left) - click on your property. Information should populate on the left side including the parcel boundaries, survey plans and development permit areas. 
3. If your property is within a Development Permit Area it will appear in that list as 'DPA #'. Click on the DPA. At the bottom there will be a hyperlink to the Official Community Plan for the Electoral Areas. 
4. Schedule C of the OCP is where you will find the Development Permit Area guidelines, definitions and exemptions. If your project does not meet one of the exemptions under the applicable DPA you will need a DP, prior to altering the land in anyway.

A Development Variance Permit (DVP) is a land use permit used by local governments to 'vary' or relax a regulation. A DVP is required whenever proposed development does not meet a regulation in a zoning bylaw, sign bylaw, subdivision bylaw or parking bylaw. Examples of regulations that may be varied include building setbacks, height or site coverage. Keep in mind - a DVP cannot vary land use or density. In order to do change a land use or the density of that use you will require a rezoning application. DVP applications are discretionary, which means depending on the merits of the situation it may be denied. All DVPs are first heard by the Electoral Areas Services Committee (EASC) and then approved/denied by the CVRD Board.

If your proposed development does not conform to the regulations of a development bylaw (e.g. zoning bylaw), you will need a Development Variance Permit (DVP). DVPs cannot vary land use or density (e.g. minimum parcel size), but can vary the siting and height of a building. Keep in mind, these applications are discretionary, meaning it could be denied. All options to satisfy the bylaw requirements should be exhausted prior to making an application to vary the regulation.

An Official Community Plan (OCP) Amendment application is required when a proposed development does not conform to the land use designation(s) of the OCP. An amendment is the process of legally changing the land use designation on a property through an amending bylaw. The approval process for an OCP Amendment is similar to a Rezoning Application – a bylaw amendment and a Public Hearing are required before the Board adopts an OCP Amendment. In some instances, an OCP Amendment must be made before a change to zoning can occur, and the amendment applications (OCP and Rezoning) typically occur in tandem. 

When the Electoral Areas Services Committee (EASC) and CVRD Board assess new development proposals, they are required to determine whether the project is consistent with the OCP. This is done by considering the proposal based on its designation in the OCP, and through an OCP policy assessment that is done by Planning staff. Amendments to the OCP are carefully assessed, as each new proposal should help contribute to the community achieving its visions and goals.

There are some occasions where a proposal is consistent with the goals and visions of the OCP, but is in conflict with the existing OCP land use designation or specific OCP policies. In this instance, an OCP Amendment may be required.

If your proposed development does not align with the objectives, policies and land use designation(s) specified in the Official Community Plan (OCP), an application to amend the OCP will be required. Keep in mind, a strong rationale must be provided to Planning staff explaining why your proposal cannot align with existing policies and regulations.

A Rezoning Application is an application to amend the Zoning Bylaw. The purpose of rezoning is to change land use regulations to allow development that aligns with CVRD Board priorities and is often used to secure development contributions to help provide public amenities.

While conditions such as building setbacks or height can be varied through a Development Variance Permit (DVP), changing the permitted uses or allowable density in a particular zone requires a change to the zoning bylaw through a rezoning application. if your intention is to use your property for a use not currently permitted under the existing zoning you will need to apply to change it.

Subdivision is the process of altering legal property boundaries. It usually involves the dividing of a property into smaller lots. It can also include the realignment of existing property lines or the consolidation of two or more lots into a single lot. To subdivide land within an Electoral Area of the CVRD an applicant must apply to the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI). A Provincial approving officer, appointed by the B.C. government, approves subdivision plans in regional district electoral areas after all requirements are met. The CVRD is referred the application from the Ministry and considers minimum parcel size (found in each of the 8 zoning bylaws), and development permit requirements (found in the Official Community Plan).

The following are types of subdivisions where approval of the Approving Officer is required:

• Adjusting lot boundaries between two or more lots (commonly known as boundary adjustment or lot line adjustment);
• Creating several new lots from one or more lots;
• Creating lots in a bare land strata development;
• Creating strata lots through a phased strata plan;
• Subdivision of land the purpose of leasing for a term longer than 3 years; and
• Air space parcel subdivisions

A secondary suite is a self-contained residential unit within a home. They can be located in a basement of a dwelling or attached at ground level to the dwelling. The CVRD zoning bylaws for each electoral area regulates the maximum size of the secondary suite and do vary by electoral area. Always consider the specific zone, general regulations and definitions when determining eligibility for a secondary suite. To find out if your zoning allows a secondary suite on your property, first check the specific zone in the zoning bylaw, then confirm the size of your property meets the minimum parcel size required depending on its level of servicing. Not sure what your zoning is? Check out our Web Map!

Secondary suites are permitted in many residential zones throughout the CVRD. This specific use, however, depends on the size of the property and its level of servicing (e.g. connection to water and sewer). To find out if your zoning allows a secondary suite on your property, first check the specific zone in the zoning bylaw, then confirm the size of your property meets the minimum parcel size required depending on its level of servicing. Not sure what your zoning is? Check out our Web Map!

An accessory dwelling unit, also known as granny suite, separate suite, small suite or carriage house, is a smaller house located on the same lot as a single-family dwelling. The building can be purpose built or may be a conversion of/or to an existing garage or accessory building. The maximum permitted size of these units varies across electoral areas and can be found in the applicable Zoning Bylaw.

Accessory dwelling units are allowed in many zones throughout the CVRD (with the exception of Area G). This specific use, however, depends on the size of the property and the level of servicing. To find out if your zoning allows an accessory dwelling unit first check the specific zone in the zoning bylaw, then confirm the size of your property meets the minimum parcel size required depending on its level of servicing. Not sure what your zoning is? Check out our Web Map! Please make sure to check with the Building Department for code and permit requirements prior to undertaking any work.

If your proposed development does not align with the objectives, policies and land use designation(s) specified in the Official Community Plan (OCP), an application to amend the OCP will be required. Keep in mind, a strong rationale must be provided to Planning staff explaining why your proposal cannot align with existing policies and regulations.

While conditions such as building setbacks or height can be varied through a Development Variance Permit (DVP), changing the permitted uses or allowable density in a particular zone requires a change to the zoning bylaw through a rezoning application. If your intention is to use your property for a use not currently permitted under the existing zoning you will need to apply to change it.

Zoning bylaws rarely have this information listed in the particular zone but rather details their specifics under separate sections.  In the first few pages of the zoning bylaws you will find an index, which can be used to find the ‘General Regulations’. These sections apply broadly across all zones and include regulations for accessory buildings, suites, home-based businesses and much more. 

Although we don't require a building permit for the construction of a fence, we do regulate the height of fences in the zoning bylaw. Make sure to check the 'general regulations' section in the zoning bylaw before you dig.

Landslide hazards exist in mountainous areas throughout the world. Wherever there are steep slopes, there is a risk of material falling or sliding down the slopes. Heavy rains can often cause instability as soils become overly saturated. As climate change increases the intensity and frequency of rainstorms in the Cowichan region, the CVRD has been studying what this means to the region’s existing natural hazards including (including flooding and landslides). The steep slopes above Cowichan Lake are prone to landslides, so the CVRD has been investigating these hazards.

There are many types of landslides, varying by the amount of water mixed with the sliding material. In the Youbou area, debris slides, debris flows, and debris floods are all potential hazards. Click here for more information on types of landslides.

It is the responsibility of local governments to identify hazards affecting or with potential to affect the community and to use that information to inform and guide land use decisions. Building inspectors must also ensure that all buildings under permit are safe for their intended use.

The CVRD has completed an initial study into landslide risk in the Youbou area. This study identified significant risks and led to follow-up studies.

Initial Study – based on existing air photos and provincial base mapping accurate at 1:15,000 scale

Ebbwater / Palmer (2019) analyzed historical air photos and provincial geological and topographical mapping to establish the landslide hazard on the slopes above Cowichan Lake from Cottonwood Creek to Hill 60. The landscape was divided into large polygons, each with hazard score based on the likelihood of a landslide impacting that polygon. This mapping is accurate at the 1:15,000 scale, but the hazard varies within each polygon; generally the hazard is greater closer to the base of the slope and within gullies. The mapping serves as a flag that further investigation at the site level may be required to determine the actual risk to an individual property. In cases where properties were found to be within the high hazard areas, notification letters were sent to the property owners. A public meeting was held in May, 2019 to share the results of the risk assessment with the community.

Follow-up: Debris Flow Modelling – based on new specially flown high-resolution data accurate at 1:5,000 scale

 Palmer / Stantec (2020) conducted refined debris flow runout modelling for much of the same study area as the 2019 study. This project involved the acquisition of high-resolution LiDAR for the study area. Stantec then modelled over 68,000 hypothetical landslides and established a line beyond which no landslides travelled. This mapping is accurate at 1:5,000 scale and identifies areas where the hazard from a debris flow is very low. Previously-notified property owners will receive an update about the new mapping, and the results are being shared with the community.

Follow-up: Rock Slope Deformations – LiDAR and field investigations by CVRD & Mosaic

The initial study identified several rock slope deformation features on the slopes above Cowichan Lake. Both the CVRD and Mosaic Forests (the landowner) conducted additional investigations into these features and found that they were stable and presented an extremely low risk.

Based on the type of hazard and the level of risk identified in the first study, the CVRD committed to the community that they would try to do two things: 1) undertake further investigations to refine the information within the polygons; and, 2) try to reduce the impact on property owners having to do additional engineering work prior to development. The second study now provides this information at a resolution of 1:5,000 and does not require property owners to do landscape level hazard assessments beyond their property boundaries with regards to landslides.

No, the results of the two studies are consistent. The 2020 study is an update and refinement of a hazard identified in the 2019 study. The CVRD was able to obtain high-resolution LiDAR for the study area allowed for a firmer definition of hazard areas. The 2019 Ebbwater / Palmer study was based on provincial TRIM mapping (visually inferred 10 meter contours) and historical air photos. It identified the hazard at a 1:15,000 scale, dividing the landscape into large areas with a hazard score based on the likelihood of a landslide impacting that polygon. Within each hazard area, the hazard varies. The 2020 Palmer / Stantec study is based on the new LiDAR which allows mapping at a much finer scale than was previously possible (digital 10 cm accuracy). The modelling of debris flow runout enables us to map a line beyond which no modelled landslides travelled.

A comparison of the results shows the 2020 runout limit cuts across various 2019 hazard polygons. For example, a high hazard polygon was identified in the area of Creekside Drive with an Annual Encounter Probability equating to 1:3,000 years. It is understood that within this polygon the hazard varies, generally increasing closer to the base of the steep slopes and within gullies. Further geotechnical investigation is required to show where, within the polygon, the higher hazard areas are located and what the actual risk is at the site level. What the 2020 results do, is a first step in this further geotechnical investigation. The runout limit runs parallel to the slope, bisecting the hazard polygon. It defines parts of the polygon (below the line) in which the hazard is below the 1:10,000 year threshold. In the rest of the polygon, there may be a hazard due to landslides – in these areas, further geotechnical investigation would be required to define the risk.

At the individual property level, the results of this study are good news to many. The message to many residents from the 2019 study was that they may be living in a landslide hazard area and that additional, site-level geotechnical assessments may be required to determine the risk at the property level. By better defining the potentially hazardous areas at a higher resolution, the 2020 study effectively shrinks the hazard polygons, in many cases meaning that part or all of a property is no longer considered to be within a hazard zone. In cases where hazards still exist on a property, the 2020 mapping can provide additional information about the likelihood and extent of potential damage.

The likelihood of a hazard occurring in any year, expressed as a percentage. For example, a hazard with a 1% chance of occurring in a given year has an AEP of 0.01. This AEP is also commonly expressed as a 1 in 100 year chance of occurring.

If you already live in this area we will require you to do a further assessment if you are considering any additional work on your home or property to ensure that the proposed works do not increase the level of risk. If you are planning a new development we will want to ensure that it is done safely and risks are mitigated.

We don’t know what the vision you have for your property is, so additional site-based assessments would take this into consideration and help you ensure that whatever you are planning meets the safety requirements. The point is to make sure that you and future residents of the property know the risks and take them into consideration in development.

The level of risk identified in the 2019 study meant that the CVRD was obligated to notify property owners and the community as a whole about the risks from landslides in the Youbou area. The CVRD hosted a public meeting in Youbou in May, 2019, and had several follow-up meetings with local residents. In response to various hazards identified across the region, the CVRD adopted a Board approved Natural Hazard Risk Tolerance Policy to ensure development in hazardous areas is done in ways to mitigate the risks to acceptable levels.

We are informing property owners in areas where there is risk as well as informing property managers in adjacent areas so that the risks to the communities can be kept as low as possible. This means addressing either the hazard or the likelihood that an event will affect people. The CVRD continues to build out its regional mapping program and assessments of the multiple hazards our communities face.

Climate change projections for the Cowichan Valley include increases to both the amount and intensity of rainfall in the coming decades. Heavy rainfall can be a trigger of landslides, so there is a potential that climate change and/or human activities could increase the frequency of landslides in the future. The answer to how this affects the hazard identified is different above and below the extent of modeled runout. This line shows the furthest downslope any of the modelled landslides travelled regardless of whether the originating trigger was natural, climate induced or development based.

• Below the extent of modeled runout: The landslide hazard in this area is very low and is not expected to increase due to climate change or human activity. Since the modelling included landslides larger than those found today, then even if the size and/or frequency of landslides increased, they still would not be expected to reach beyond the line shown.
• Within the extent of modeled runout (i.e., above the line): A potential landslide hazard may exist. Within this hazard area, it is possible that the landslide hazard could increase if factors such as climate change or human activity were to increase the likelihood of a landslide occurring. This analysis was outside the scope of the Palmer / Stantec modeling.

Your building permit or development permit process will help us identify this potential and ensure that that risk is mitigated.

When glass (bottles, jars, refundable beverage containers) is placed in curbside totes, it breaks into unrecoverable pieces which contaminates the recyclables and can create potential health and safety issues at the sorting facility. Please take glass to a Recycling Centre to be properly handled and recycled.

When styrofoam (foam meat trays, takeout containers, foam packaging) is placed in curbside totes, these materials break into unrecoverable pieces which contaminate the load. Please take styrofoam to a Recycling Centre to be properly handled and recycled.

Film plastic material (plastic bags, plastic wrap, bubble wrap) and snack wrappers (potato chip bags, cookie bags) are not accepted in the curbside recycling program. These materials get tangled in sorting equipment requiring lengthy shut-downs and expensive delays. Plastic bags also tangle other materials making it difficult to separate and sort recyclables. Please take plastic bags and wrappers to a Recycling Centre to be properly handled and recycled.

Clean household packaging and paper products. This includes:

• Paper, paper packaging, paper cups, cardboard 
• Plastic containers, bottles, and cartons
• Metal food containers/cans, non-hazardous aerosols and foil

If you are wanting a different tote, please call the CVRD Recycling Hotline at 250-746-2540.

1. If your tote is not collected on your scheduled pickup day, please revisit the tips for a successful pickup to ensure that you are correctly placing your materials at the curb. The most common issues are:

        a. Incorrect spacing. Please space totes 1m apart from other totes and surrounding objects such as cars, telephone poles, and utility boxes.

        b. An overfilled tote. Totes cannot be collected correctly if they are overfilled or have materials placed on their lids, which fall out and litter the roadway when tipped.

        c. Totes facing the wrong direction. These totes can be rejected as they pose a safety concern when contents are tipped into the collection truck 

   Have a yellow "oops" or red "we left" sticker on your collection tote? The CVRD reserves the right to refuse the collection of any materials that do not belong in the curbside recycling program. Call the Recycling Hotline at 250.746.2540 or 1.800.665.3955 for more information.
   
   For up-to-date information about missed collections due to mechanical failures or weather-related disruptions, subscribe to CVRD newsflashes (sign up here), download the Cowichan Recycles app or visit the CVRD Facebook page.

All eligible residents are required by bylaw to participate in the curbside pick-up program and cannot opt out. This ensures that costs per household are kept as low as possible and encourages broad participation. 

Curbside totes are the property CVRD and should remain at their assigned address. If you are moving into an existing single-family home in an Electoral Area, you will already be included in the pick-up program and totes should have been left at your property by the previous owner. If there are no totes at your address, please call the Recycling Hotline (250.746.2540).

No taxes are used to fund the program. The program is paid for by user fees.

Find your curbside collection schedule here. You can also access and download your schedule to your calendar through our Cowichan Recycles App available in the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.

If you've built a new house in an Electoral Area, you will automatically be eligible for the curbside collection program. Call the CVRD Recycling Hotline at 250-746-2540 to get set up. 

.

Asbestos-containing material that is properly prepared for disposal (i.e. double-bagged in 6 mil polyethylene bags, properly tied, and labelled) can be taken to the following facilities: 

DUNCAN: GFL* 5271 Boal Road, Duncan 250-748-4611 or 250-715-0954 
*Note: GFL Chemainus location does not accept asbestos waste. 

NANAIMO: Regional District of Nanaimo Landfill* 1105 Cedar Road, Nanaimo 250-722-2044
*Note: Asbestos waste is accepted by appointment only.

VICTORIA: Hartland Landfill* #1 Hartland Avenue, Victoria 250-360-3030 
*Note: Asbestos waste is accepted by appointment only.

An Out of Region application must be submitted to hartlandreception@crd.bc.ca with analytical from the lab.

The form and more information can be found at https://www.crd.bc.ca/service/waste-recycling/hartland-landfill-facility/permits-pre-approvals/asbestos or Google “CRD Asbestos Disposal”.

As long as the asbestos-containing materials remain in good condition and are not disturbed, there is very little risk of exposure to airborne asbestos fibre. The risk of exposure arises when the asbestos-containing materials are disturbed (e.g. during renovation) and the fibres become airborne. Airborne asbestos fibres are a risk to you, your kids, your building contractor, the trucker who hauls away your construction waste and the worker at the waste facility who handles it.

Two out of three Cowichan homes were built before 1990 when asbestos was often used in house construction. Asbestos is everywhere in these older homes: in the insulation, walls, ceilings, surface coatings, floorings, ducting, plumbing, wiring, light fixtures and more. Asbestos is commonly mixed with other materials, making it difficult to recognize. All pre-1990 building materials should therefore be considered suspect. Asbestos is commonly found in: loose insulation (e.g. vermiculite), roof gutters (asbestos cement), stucco, soffit boards, light fixtures, acoustic tiles, textured or coated walls and ceilings, siding and under sheeting, pipe insulation, insulation on electrical wires, furnace duct tape, boiler and furnace insulation, vinyl or linoleum flooring, drywall fillers and joint compound, roofing felt, shingles and tiles, etc. Check out this WorkSafe BC poster to see where asbestos could live in your home.

If you are buying a house, have a hazardous material assessment done by a qualified person in addition to your building inspection as a condition of your purchase. This hazardous materials assessment will help you determine the true cost of buying the house, especially if you are planning to renovate and will have to manage asbestos material and other hazardous materials.

The cost of a hazardous materials assessment will vary (~ between $500 and $3,500) depending on the size of your house, if you are testing the entire house and how many samples are needed. Depending on the size of your renovation project, you can decide to have: 

1. A full hazardous material assessment of your house or,

2. A hazardous material assessment with limited scope (i.e. an assessment of the materials that will be disturbed during your renovation project). 

For example, if you are renovating the bathroom, you may only need to test the materials in your bathroom. The hazardous waste assessments will provide you with written documentation of the results. A full hazardous material assessment will come in handy for future renovation projects, or for when you plan to sell your house.

WorkSafeBC’s brochure for homeowners will provide you with information on where to look for a reputable contractor and questions that you should ask every contractor that you consider hiring. (As an example, a reputable company will have a Hazardous Waste Generator number and a Waste Manifest number). Environmental companies that deal with hazardous waste material may also be able to provide a listing of reputable contractors. Remember to ensure that you find current information as a company that was considered reputable a few years ago may no longer be so. 

Do not hire a regular carpenter or renovation company to deal with asbestos material as you not only put your life in danger, you also put their lives in danger.

Asbestos Sampling The methods used to collect samples are just as important as the methods used to analyze the samples. To ensure that you do not get false-negative results it is vital that the samples are collected properly by a company that is qualified to do so. Asbestos Removal Have all identified (or suspected) asbestos-containing materials removed by a qualified asbestos removal professional. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REMOVE THESE MATERIALS YOURSELF. The cost of material removal will vary depending on the type of material, the volume of material, the accessibility of material, etc. For example, the removal cost for vermiculite insulation may cost around $10/square foot, stucco ~$8-$10/square foot, plaster flooring ~$8/square foot, drywall ~$5/square foot, and tile flooring~ $4/square foot. How Long Does it Take to Have Asbestos Removed? The time it takes to remove asbestos depends on the type of material, the volume of material, the accessibility of the material, the type of equipment the contractors have access to, etc. Typically, removal of one type of material will take three to five days as the contractor must seal the area off and carry out a number of other preparations both before and after the actual removal of asbestos to keep you and their staff safe. How is Asbestos Disposed of? Asbestos removal professionals have appropriate training and safety equipment that enables them to handle asbestos while avoiding exposure. Asbestos-containing material must be double-bagged in 6-mil polyethylene asbestos bags and properly labelled before they can be taken to an asbestos disposal facility. Be Aware, Unfortunately, there are contractors that will accept jobs that they are not qualified to do, putting their staff and you at significant risk. Qualified contractors will remove and properly dispose of asbestos from your home. Be aware that it is not acceptable or legal for a contractor to leave asbestos at your home for you to deal with.

The Cowichan Valley offers several different types of transit service: 

Local scheduled route service: These are the scheduled routes operating throughout the Cowichan Valley. Transit routes are available in all areas except Electoral Areas G (Saltair / Gulf Islands) and Area H (North Oyster / Diamond). For a full listing of routes with maps and schedules please see BC Transit’s website; or pick up a Rider’s Guide onboard or from various ticket outlets in the Cowichan Valley. 

handyDART (custom) service: handyDART provides accessible door-to-door, shared transit services in the Cowichan Valley for registered users who cannot use scheduled bus route service. This service is available to residences within 1.5 km of a conventional fixed service transit route not including commuter routes. For more information or to register please call 250.748.1230, or 1.855.748.1230 toll free from Ladysmith. 

Weekday Inter-regional service: 
There are 2 Victoria Express routes operating Monday - Friday between the Cowichan Valley and the Capital Regional District (Victoria) and 1 Nanaimo Express route between the Cowichan Valley and Downtown Nanaimo.  Please check the rider's guide for Statutory Holiday coverage.

Route #66 - Cowichan Victoria Express (CVX) offers 3 daily early morning trips from Village Green Mall (on Central Road beside London Drugs) to Victoria and 3 early evening return trips.  One (1) new mid day round trip is now offered as well.  

Route #99 - Shawnigan Lake Victoria Express (SVX) offers 2 daily early morning trips starting from the Cobble Hill Train Station stop on Cobble Hill Road near Hutchinson Road and 2 daily early evening return trips. 

Route #70 - Nanaimo Cowichan Express (NCX) offers 7 daily (9 on Fridays) round trips from the Village Green Mall (on Central Road beside London Drugs) to Downtown Nanaimo.

Saturday Inter-regional service:

Route #66 - Cowichan Victoria Express offers Saturday transit service connections between the Cowichan Valley and Greater Victoria with 3 round trips.

Route #70 - Nanaimo Cowichan Express offers Saturday transit service connections between the Cowichan Valley and Downtown Nanaimo with 8 round trips.

For more information call 250-746-9899

Powered by Froala Editor

For transit routes, schedules, maps and fares visit www.bctransit.com/cowichan-valley and try out the Trip Planning tool to easily plan your next bus trip. Simply put in your starting point (origin), and your final destination. Enter your departure time, or your desired arrival time, and the trip planner will calculate the best bus route and give you the scheduled times as well as provide directions to the closest available bus stops.

If you are not connecting with us online you can also pick up hard copies of the Cowichan Valley Transit Rider’s Guide on board the bus or at the CVRD’s main office (175 Ingram Street, Duncan) as well as at CVRD Recreation Centres (Cowichan Community Centre, Kerry Park Recreation Centre, Shawnigan Lake Community Centre, and Cowichan Lake Sports Arena).

Route maps are available online and in the Rider's Guide but a brief overview of some major destinations and the transit routes servicing them is included below. This is not an exhaustive list so please contact the information line, 250.746.9899 if you have questions. Please see:

No, schedules only list a handful of key stops, or timing points, along a route designed to tell customers approximately where the bus is. Along the route you will find bus stops within a few minutes of the times listed. 

To easily plan your transit trip, use the online Transit Trip Planner available at: www.bctransit.com/cowichan-valley. Simply put in your trip origin, destination, date and time of departure, or your desired arrival, and the most direct bus routes and times will be calculated for you along with directions to the closest nearby bus stop.

On-request transit is available on Cowichan Valley Transit Routes #20 (Youbou) and #21 (Honeymoon Bay). This service offers pick up and drop off service as an extension of the scheduled local route. All locations (homes, businesses, etc.) located within 1.5 kilometres of existing transit routes #20 and #21 qualify, meaning customers can make arrangements for pick up or drop off at these specific locations in advance. On-request service is limited to two drop off or pick ups per trip and priority is given to first-to-call customers and those with mobility challenges. For more information, and to book a trip, call 250.746-9899. Standard cash fares of $2.25 apply per trip.

Please call the Transit Information line at 250.746.9899 for lost and found inquiries.

To report a lost or stolen Umo Card, please call the Umo Support Centre at 877-380-8181.

Powered by Froala Editor

All BC Transit buses can carry up to two adult bikes on the front rack on a first come, first serve basis. Community buses used on Youbou, Honeymoon Bay and Ladysmith local routes cannot safely carry bikes on the rack after dark.  Toddler bikes and wagons are not permitted on board buses for safety reasons.  For more information please see BC Transit's website at www.bctransit.com/cowichan-valley under Rider Info.

Local scheduled routes:

A $2.25 one-way cash fare applies on the local Cowichan Valley bus routes. Exact change is required if cash is being used and fares are payable at the time of boarding.  30-day passes can also be purchased at discounted rates for travel on local and interregional routes.  

Children aged 6 to 12 can ride buses for free, without requiring a fare product or identification.

Children aged 5 and under will need to be accompanied by an attendant 12 years or older to ride for free.  Children must board and depart at the same stop as the attendant.

handyDART:

A $2.25 one-way cash fare applies.  Attendants travelling with the handyDART customer to provide required assistance can also ride for free with a fare-paying customer.  Attendants are responsible for the care and assistance of a customer during the trip.

Inter-regional Routes:

Routes #66 and #99 - Fares on the Victoria Express buses are $10.00 (one-way). Exact change is required if cash is being used and fares are payable at the time of boarding. 30-day passes can also be purchased for regular transit riders and these provide discounts. Children 12 years of age and under ride free with a fare paying adult.  

Route #70 - Fares on the Nanaimo Express buses are $5.00 (one-way). Exact change is required if cash is being used and fares are payable at the time of boarding. 30-day passes can also be purchased for regular transit riders and these provide discounts. Children 12 years of age and under ride free with a fare paying adult.  

For full fare information please see: 

The BC Bus Pass Program is offered by the BC Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. This program provides an annual bus pass valid for eligible riders on any fixed-route transit service in the Cowichan Valley or throughout the Province of BC. For more information on this pass and eligibility requirements please see:

There are a few ways to pay for your fare on the buses in the Cowichan Valley Regional Transit System:

• Cash - exact fare is required
• DayPass - either paper or electronic
• Single Use Discounted Tickets - no longer available for purchase, but tickets in circulation can still be used
• UMO App - all Transit Fare products are available to purchase and load online and are scannable on all system buses except handyDART
• UMO Reloadable Card - all Transit Fare products are available to purchase and load online, or at a listed Vendor, and are scannable on all system buses except handyDART
• Compass or CNIB Card 
• Single Ride Token - complimentary product distributed by local service organizations
• Credit or Debit Card - coming soon

What is UMO?

Umo is BC Transit's contactless fare payment system that allows you to pay for your fare with the payment method and fare product that best suits your lifestyle and travel habits.  You can choose to use an App or a reloadable card to store your transit products on for future fare scanning.  Transit products available for purchase for the Cowichan Valley Regional Transit System are:

• Stored Value - add cash to your account for scanning convenience
• 30-day Adult pass 
• 30-day Concession pass (Student/Senior/Post-Secondary Student)
• Post Secondary Student Semester pass - available at CVRD Office at 175 Ingram Street
• Interregional Monthly Passes - CVX / SVX / NCX

For more information please visit https://www.bctransit.com/umo

Powered by Froala Editor

CVRD Electoral Area residents can access their collection schedules here. To get reminders via text or email, download the Cowichan Recycles app (Google Play Store download, Apple App Store download).

North Cowichan, City of Duncan, Town of Ladysmith, and Town of Lake Cowichan residents should contact their municipalities for pick-up schedules. To find out which Area / Municipality you are in, click here.

The program is paid for by user fees and no taxes are used.

All eligible residents are required by bylaw to participate in the pick-up program and can't opt out. This ensures that costs per household are kept as low as possible and broad participation is encouraged. 

If you are moving into an existing single family home in an Electoral Area, you will already be included in the pick-up program and totes should have been left at your property by the previous owner.

If you've built a new house in an Electoral Area, you will automatically be put on the pick-up program. New totes will be sent to your home about 2 months after your insulation inspection is completed. You will get a standard 240L blue tote for recycling. If you live in an area that receives garbage pick-up from the CVRD, you will also get a 132L black tote for garbage. Different tote sizes can be requested in advance by calling the Recycling Hotline at (250) 746-2540 or emailing curbside@cvrd.bc.ca. Annual billing will begin upon substantial completion of your insulation inspection.

If your tote is not collected on your scheduled pickup day, please revisit the guidelines for a successful pickup to ensure that you are correctly placing your materials at the curb. The most common issues are:

     a. Incorrect spacing. Please space totes 1m apart from other totes and surrounding objects such as cars, telephone poles, and utility boxes.

     b. An overfilled tote. Totes cannot be collected correctly if they are overfilled or have materials placed on their lids, which fall out and litter the roadway when tipped.

     c. Totes facing the wrong direction. These totes can be rejected as they pose a safety concern when contents are tipped into the collection truck 

Have a yellow "oops" or red "we left" sticker on your collection tote? The CVRD reserves the right to refuse the collection of any materials that do not belong in the curbside recycling program. Call the Recycling Hotline at 250.746.2540 or 1.800.665.3955 for more information.

For up-to-date information about missed collections due to mechanical failures or weather-related disruptions, subscribe to CVRD newsflashes (sign up here), download the Cowichan Recycles app or visit the CVRD Facebook page.

No.  Addresses must be assigned by the Cowichan Valley Regional District to ensure the correct civic is assigned and agencies such as E-911 are properly notified.

When a building permit is applied for through the Cowichan Valley Regional District, it is sent to the GIS department to assign a civic address. The GIS department uses an address grid that encompasses the entire region to ensure addresses are assigned consecutively and in an order that is easy to understand.

Occupancy will only be granted if you have your valid civic address posted.

Roads within the Cowichan Valley Regional District fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Transportation, Highways and Infrastructure. To verify your road name, contact the Ministry of Transportation at (250) 387-3198. For maintenance issues or hazards on the roadway, visit Highway Maintenance Contractors Public Contact Numbers web page. 

Yes. One address should be assigned to each residence on your lot. Additional civic addresses will be given out once the building inspector has determined the house is habitable and does not contravene the zoning regulations.

The Ministry of Transportation, Highways and Infrastructure approves road names within the Cowichan Valley Regional District. As part of the subdivision application procedure, the developer will be asked to provide 3+ road names that will be checked against the current road inventory for uniqueness. If the road name exists within the CVRD or a surrounding jurisdiction, the road name will be denied and the developer will have to submit other options.

Addresses are assigned based on an addressing grid that covers the entire CVRD. While we understand some address numbers may not be desirable, they are assigned to ensure yours and your neighbours' safety.

In rare circumstances, the CVRD may change or reassign civic addresses to correct inaccuracies or make room for new subdivisions. In these circumstances, the CVRD will notify all affected owners.

The method for receiving a water access address is the same as that of a land access address (applying for a building permit through the CVRD Building department). Water access houses should have the addresses clearly posted so that passing boats can easily locate it, such as on the dock.

Provide a map of your property to the service provider using our interactive web map. If your address is incorrect or not shown on our web map, please contact the CVRD GIS staff via email or 250.746.2500 ext 2221.

Open hearth fireplaces may be eligible for a rebate if residents are purchasing an electric insert. The program guidelines require that residents replace a wood burning heat source that is currently used as the PRIMARY home heating source. As fireplaces are rarely the primary heating source in a house, rebate eligibility is at the discretion of program administrators.

The program does not cover new wood-burning inserts installed in an open hearth fireplace when there was no pre-existing wood-burning insert. Typically, installing a wood-burning insert in an open-hearth fireplace results in increased usage of the new wood-burning appliance, thereby increasing air particulate emissions. Open hearth fireplaces tend to be used mainly for special occasions, whereas the installation of a wood-burning insert would likely cause an increase in wood burning.

If residents already have a wood burning insert installed in an open hearth fireplace that is at least five years old and/or uncertified, residents may be eligible for a rebate if the wood burning insert is replaced with a new EPA- or CSA-certified wood burning appliance. 

Program start date is January 15, 2020. The homeowner must purchase and install the new appliance after the program start date. Program end date is November 30, 2020. The homeowner must purchase and install the new appliance, dispose of old appliance for recycling, and submit all completed required documentation before the program end date. Homeowners with incomplete applications by November 30, 2020 will be considered ineligible for the 2020 program.

The following table outlines the eligible appliances and rebate values for the 2020 Woodstove Replacement Program. Additional $50 rebates are provided by registered retailers for EPA or CSA certified wood appliances and $150 for heat pumps. 

Learn more about the regional FireSmart Program for homeowners: https://emcowichan.ca/programs-resources/fire-smart/home-owner/

Tipping fee exemptions are available to:

• Individual residents or residential cleanup groups are eligible for up to $250 per clean-up project with a maximum of $5,000 per calendar year
• Registered non-profit societies, registered charities, and school districts are eligible for up to $1,000 per clean-up project with a maximum of $15,000 per calendar year

Reducing your waste is very important considering the journey that your garbage takes before it is landfilled in Washington State. The CVRD aims to reduce residential waste from 358 kg per capita to 250 kg per capita to meet its goal for a zero-waste future. To learn some tips on how to reduce your waste, visit the Waste Management Education Page.

If your tote is not collected on your scheduled pickup day, please revisit the tips for a successful pickup to ensure that you are correctly placing your materials at the curb. The most common issues are

1. Incorrect spacing. Please spaces totes 1m apart from other totes and surrounding objects such as cars, telephone poles, and utility boxes.
2. An overfilled tote. Totes cannot be collected correctly if they are overfilled or have materials placed on their lids. This is because the contents will spill when tipped, littering the street.
3. Totes that are facing the incorrect direction. These totes can be rejected as they pose a safety concern when contents are tipped into the collection truck

For up-to-date information about missed collections due to mechanical failures or weather-related disruptions, subscribe to CVRD newsflashes (signup here), download the Cowichan Recycles app or visit the CVRD Facebook page.

If you would like to review your notice, go over the materials that are accepted in the curbside recycling program, or believe that you have received a notice in error, please call the Recycling Hotline at 250 746 2540.

The curbside recycling program accepts clean household packaging and paper only. Hard plastics are products (eg., Rubbermaid totes, Tupperware containers, toys, plastic lawn furniture), which are not accepted in the curbside program.

People often think that the chasing-arrows symbol on plastic items means the item is recyclable but unfortunately, this code (called the resin identification code) is actually just indicating the type of plastic the item is comprised of. Within these codes, there are different manufacturing processes, dyes, additives and melting points that make each item unique. For example, within resin code #2, the items can vary from plastic bags and water bottles to your CVRD recycling tote!

Plastic packaging materials (e.g. plastic containers, plastic bags, and plastic bottles) are the most commonly recycled plastic materials due to their consistent composition, single-use nature, and established end-market.  As such, the CVRD curbside recycling program accepts household packaging, not products.

To learn more, watch our Hard Plastics Recycling Mythbuster video!

The curbside recycling program accepts clean household packaging and paper only. When collected at curbside, these materials often get tangled in sorting machinery which delays the sorting process. Clean textiles/clothing without rips, stains or holes can be donated to various charitable organizations and Recycling Centres. Please put all items that cannot be donated in the garbage.

When your curbside recycling is collected, the truck driver has a matter of a few seconds to review your material and identify contaminants. When a bag is identified, it is difficult to determine if it is garbage or bagged recyclables, so the driver tags it to the closest possible item that it resembles.

The CVRD asks that all recyclables be kept loose within your tote. Recyclables that are bundled or bagged cannot be properly recycled because the equipment at the sorting facility cannot access the materials to effectively sort them. For safety reasons, staff do not open these bags.

Film plastic material (plastic bags, plastic wrap, bubble wrap) and snack wrappers (potato chip bags, cookie bags) are not accepted in the curbside recycling program. These materials get tangled in sorting equipment requiring lengthy shut-downs and expensive delays. Plastic bags also tangle with other materials making it difficult to separate and sort recyclables.

These materials can be taken to a CVRD Recycling Centre to be properly handled, sorted, and recycled.

The curbside recycling program accepts clean household packaging and paper products only. When your curbside recycling is collected, the truck driver has a matter of a few seconds to review your material and identify contaminants. Packaging and paper products have a fairly uniform appearance, which makes other materials stand out when they are collected. While it is not always possible to identify exactly what the material is, the drivers flag the item as a contaminant that should be reviewed.

If you would like to review your unidentified recycling contamination notice, please call the Recycling Hotline at 250 746 2540.

Glass (jars, bottles, refundable drink containers) is not accepted in the curbside recycling program. When placed in automated curbside totes, glass breaks into unrecoverable pieces which intermixes with and contaminates the other recyclables and can create potential health and safety issues at the sorting facility.

Please take glass to a CVRD Recycling Centre to be properly handled and recycled.

Styrofoam material (foam meat trays, takeout containers, foam packing) is not accepted in the curbside recycling program. When placed in curbside totes, these materials break into unrecoverable pieces which intermix with other recyclables which contaminate the load.

Please take all of your foam material to a CVRD Recycling Centre to be properly handled and recycled.

Each Electoral Area has a Zoning Bylaw with regulations for each parcel, including; use, density and siting (e.g. setbacks). Permitted uses are identified for each zone, for clarity - each Zoning Bylaw is equipped with a section on definitions and general regulations. The CVRD web map can help you quickly determine what your property is zoned. For more information on how to use the Webmap see "What is the Webmap and how do I use it?"

Riparian areas can be defined as the area of land adjacent to a watercourse or body of water, a ditch, spring or wetland, whether or not usually containing water (see image below). The entire CVRD is within a Riparian Protection Development Permit Area (DPA). It is the responsibility of the property owner(s) to ensure there are no activities in the riparian area, or apply for a development permit. For more information on Riparian Areas, please click here.

For visualization purposes only.

Subdivision is the process of altering legal property boundaries. It usually involves the dividing of a property into smaller lots. It can also include the realignment of existing property lines or the consolidation of two or more lots into a single lot. To subdivide land within an Electoral Area of the CVRD an applicant must apply to the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI). A Provincial approving officer, appointed by the B.C. government, approves subdivision plans in regional district electoral areas after all requirements are met. The CVRD is referred the application from the Ministry and considers minimum parcel size (found in each of the 8 zoning bylaws), and development permit requirements (found in the Official Community Plan).

The following are types of subdivisions where approval of the Approving Officer is required:

• Adjusting lot boundaries between two or more lots (commonly known as boundary adjustment or lot line adjustment);
• Creating several new lots from one or more lots;
• Creating lots in a bare land strata development;
• Creating strata lots through a phased strata plan;
• Subdivision of land the purpose of leasing for a term longer than 3 years; and
• Air space parcel subdivisions

Minimum parcel sizes and subdivision regulations are determined in the Zoning Bylaw (please note that each electoral area may have their own zoning bylaw, and each zone within the bylaw has its own minimum parcel size). Minimum parcel sizes depend on the level of servicing (e.g. community water and sewer services) - typically, the minimum parcel size will decrease as the level of servicing on a lot increases. For example, a lot that is on well and septic will have a larger minimum parcel size than a lot that is serviced by community water and sewer. To determine if their property is, or can be, serviced with community water and/or sewer, please consult the CVRD web map and ensure the 'Utility' layers are checked on.

In addition to the minimum parcel size, general subdivision regulations also apply. These refer to the subdivision of lots severed by a road, another parcel or jurisdictional boundary; boundary adjustments/parcel realignments; subdivision of parcels containing a water body, watercourse or wetland; panhandle parcels etc. Note: each zoning bylaw contains its own general subdivision regulations and it is important to know which electoral area their parcel is within.

An accessory dwelling unit, also known as granny suite, separate suite, small suite or carriage house, is a smaller house located on the same lot as a single-family dwelling. The building can be purpose built or may be a conversion of/or to an existing garage or accessory building. The maximum permitted size of these units varies across electoral areas.

Accessory dwelling units are allowed in many zones throughout the CVRD (with the exception of Area G). This specific use, however, depends on the size of the property and the level of servicing. To find out if the zoning allows an accessory dwelling unit first check the specific zone in the zoning bylaw, then confirm the size of the property meets the minimum parcel size required depending on its level of servicing. Not sure what the zoning is? Check out our Web Map! Please make sure to check with the Building Department for code and permit requirements prior to undertaking any work.

A secondary suite is a self-contained residential unit within a home. They can be located in a basement of a dwelling or attached at ground level to the dwelling. The CVRD zoning bylaws for each electoral area regulates the maximum size of the secondary suite and do vary by electoral area. Always consider the specific zone, general regulations and definitions when determining eligibility for a secondary suite. To find out if the zoning allows a secondary suite on a property, first check the specific zone in the zoning bylaw, then confirm the size of the property meets the minimum parcel size required depending on its level of servicing. Not sure what the zoning is? Check out our Web Map!

Secondary suites are permitted in many residential zones throughout the CVRD. This specific use, however, depends on the size of the property and its level of servicing (e.g. connection to water and sewer). To find out if the zoning allows a secondary suite on their property, first check the specific zone in the zoning bylaw, then confirm the size of the property meets the minimum parcel size required depending on its level of servicing. Not sure what the zoning is? Check out our Web Map!

A Development Permit (DP) is a land use permit used by local governments to review proposed developments to ensure they meet the policies and objectives of the Official Community Plan (OCP), and satisfy all required regulations in the zoning bylaw. A Development Permit may specify requirements respecting the character of development, including landscaping, and the siting, form, exterior design and finish of buildings and structures; environmental protection; protection from hazardous conditions and protection of farming. DP's may also impose conditions respecting the sequencing and timing of construction. Within designated Development Permit Areas (DPAs) land must not be subdivided or altered and buildings or structures cannot be constructed or altered, unless the owner has first obtained a DP. Once approved (by the General Manager or CVRD Board), the DP is registered against the title of the land and becomes binding on future land owners.

A Development Variance Permit (DVP) is a land use permit used by local governments to 'vary' or relax a regulation. A DVP is required whenever proposed development does not meet a regulation in a zoning bylaw, sign bylaw, subdivision bylaw or parking bylaw. Examples of regulations that may be varied include building setbacks, height or site coverage. Keep in mind - a DVP cannot vary land use or density. In order to do change a land use or the density of that use you will require a rezoning application. DVP applications are discretionary, which means depending on the merits of the situation it may be denied. All DVPs are first heard by the Electoral Areas Services Committee (EASC) and then approved/denied by the CVRD Board.

An Official Community Plan (OCP) Amendment application is required when a proposed development does not conform to the land use designation(s) of the OCP. An amendment is the process of legally changing the land use designation on a property through an amending bylaw. The approval process for an OCP Amendment is similar to a Rezoning Application – a bylaw amendment and a Public Hearing are required before the Board adopts an OCP Amendment. In some instances, an OCP Amendment must be made before a change to zoning can occur, and the amendment applications (OCP and Rezoning) typically occur in tandem. 

When the Electoral Areas Services Committee (EASC) and CVRD Board assess new development proposals, they are required to determine whether the project is consistent with the OCP. This is done by considering the proposal based on its designation in the OCP, and through an OCP policy assessment that is done by Planning staff. Amendments to the OCP are carefully assessed, as each new proposal should help contribute to the community achieving its visions and goals.

There are some occasions where a proposal is consistent with the goals and visions of the OCP, but is in conflict with the existing OCP land use designation or specific OCP policies. In this instance, an OCP Amendment may be required.

A Rezoning Application is an application to amend the Zoning Bylaw. The purpose of rezoning is to change land use regulations to allow development that aligns with CVRD Board priorities and is often used to secure development contributions to help provide public amenities.

Although 'Air B&B Inc.' is a specific short term rental marketing company, it is commonly used as a blanket term when talking about short term rentals. Zones that permit short term rentals are limited in the CVRD. Bed and breakfast short term rentals are permitted within most single-family dwellings, however they are regulated, and generally require that it be contained within a single family dwelling (not an accessory building), and that the owner reside in the single family dwelling. To determine if a property is within one of these areas, please consult the Zoning Bylaw to determine the permitted uses on the property. You can search for a property by using the Web Map.  Note: secondary suites and accessory dwelling units/detached suites are typically intended for long term rentals.

The CVRD does not have a tree cutting bylaw. The CVRD does, however, regulate the cutting of trees in certain areas that have been designated as a Development Permit Area (DPA) and may even prohibit the cutting of trees and other vegetation. The Riparian Area Protection DPA is one of these areas that will require a permit prior to cutting or removal of any vegetation. Other areas that may require a permit prior to cutting trees are areas designated as a sensitive ecosystem and/or steep slope. 

Tree cutting should occur during identified low-risk timing periods (mid-September to January). If tree cutting must occur outside this time window, a thorough nest search should be conducted. Removal or modification of a nest tree requires written permission (permit) from the Province (MoE) and may also require a federal permit.

Chickens are becoming a popular land use activity as more people look to their own yards to provide some food security. Before your clients start planning their chicken coop, be sure to check the Zoning Bylaw to ensure chickens and/or livestock are a permitted use on the property. Keep in mind that the zoning bylaw for each electoral area may address chickens differently - in some areas such as Electoral Areas A (Mill Bay) and C (Cobble Hill), there are specific regulations for the keeping of chickens while in other zoning bylaws the 'Agriculture' use covers all livestock. Be sure to read through the zone thoroughly and don't forget to check out the definitions at the beginning of the zoning bylaw for additional clarity.

No. An RV is a recreational vehicle designed to be used as temporary quarters for recreational, camping or travel use. Currently in the CVRD, RVs are not a permitted use in any of the zoning bylaws because RVs do not meet the BC Building Code regulations for dwellings. If your clients intend on building a dwelling and living in their RV while its under construction that is a different story! Please refer to the zoning bylaw for the 'Camping or Occupying an Existing Dwelling During New House Construction' regulation. 

To see whether or not a property is within the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) go to the online Web Map and search the property by scrolling, using an address or parcel identifier (PID). Once you have located the property, use the 'identify' tool (top left) and click on the property. Information should populate on the left with information like the zoning, and OCP designation. If a property is in the ALR you will see it listed in the items on the left. Please note: This mapping service is for general reference only. Mapping errors can occur. 

You may also consult the Agricultural Land Commission Mapping System. Note: If your property falls within the ALR, additional regulations may apply.

The BC Building Code requires all dwellings to be code compliant, have permanent foundations and be connected to an approved septic system. It is not the size that counts, but the connection to services and compliance with the BC Building Code. The zoning bylaws regulate the maximum size of a dwelling but not the minimum (except some in Area D). Note: tiny homes on wheels, or recreational vehicles on wheels, are not permitted to be used as full time dwellings because they do not meet BC Building Code Regulations.

Zoning bylaws can be complex and because we have so many of them it can be even more challenging. We recommend following these easy steps:

1. First find the correct zoning bylaw! The CVRD is made up of 9 different and unique Electoral Areas, each of which have their own zoning bylaw. An easy way to determine which Electoral Area a property is in simply check out our online Web Map! Search the property by civic address or parcel identifier (PID). Information will auto populate by clicking on the 'identify' tool and then clicking on the property. The zone and a link to the applicable zoning bylaw will appear alongside the Electoral Area.
2. Once you've determined the Electoral Area, and have the correct zoning bylaw, the first place to start is with the table of contents (usually at the beginning of the bylaw).
3. Find the zone and navigate to it. This is where it gets a little tricky. Each bylaw was written at a different time and likely by a different planner, keep this in mind when you are referring to multiple zoning bylaws. Please note that all the uses listed within the zone are subject to the general regulations of the bylaw (always refer to these). The main things you will want to look at in the zone are:

1. The permitted uses (e.g. what uses are legally allowed to occur on the property)
2. The conditions of use (e.g. setbacks, height restrictions, parcel coverage)

4. As noted above, always consider the 'General Regulations'. These regulations apply across all zones throughout the electoral area and may determine whether or not a use is allowed (e.g. suites).
5. Lastly, always consider the bylaw definitions. Each bylaw has a list of definitions to help clarify terminology used throughout the bylaw.
6. When in doubt, always contact staff at ds@cvrd.bc.ca

The online Web Map allows anyone to search their property and find important information like zoning, OCP designations, development permit areas, service areas and more. To use the Web Map simply go to the Web Map and click on desktop icon (see image #1). From there a disclaimer statement will appear, click 'accept'. The map will launch and show the entire Regional District. To find your property you can either search by scrolling in and navigating to it, or use the address tool or parcel identifier (PID) for bare land (see image #2). Once you have found the property, use the 'identify tool' (top left - see image #3) by clicking on the tool and then on the property. By doing this, information should populate on the left side. From there you can click on any of the items shown in that list for more information. Links are also provided to pertinent bylaws like the applicable zoning bylaw (see image #4).

These are charges that may be registered against title to lands. This generally means the terms within them will bind future purchasers of lands subject to the charge. Parties can access registered charges through MyLTSA. All persons should seek legal or other professional advice in reviewing and interpreting land title documents and charges registered against title.

CVRD Recycling centres accept over 650 items for disposal. This includes:

• Plastic bags, wrappers & snack bags
• Styrofoam packaging
• Glass jars & bottles
• Refundable beverage containers
• Batteries, electronic, large and small appliances
• Food waste, organics & yard waste
• Household hazardous waste
• Scrap metal
• Clean & painted lumber
• Tires
• Upholstered furniture

Have a specific material that you would like to dispose of? To learn about disposal options, type the name of the waste item into the Cowichan Recyclopedia search bar and choose the category it belongs to.

Bings Creek Recycling Centre & Garbage Drop-Off Depot, Duncan 
Address: 3900 Drinkwater Road, Duncan
Hours: Open every day 8 am to 5 pm 

Peerless Road Recycling Centre & Garbage Drop-Off Depot, Ladysmith 
Address: 10830 Westdowne Road, Ladysmith
Summer Hours (April 1 to October 31): Wednesday through Sunday, 9 am to 5 pm
Winter Hours (November 1 to March 31): Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday only 9 am to 5 pm

Meade Creek Recycling Centre & Garbage Drop-Off Depot, Lake Cowichan 
Address: 8855 Youbou Rd, Lake Cowichan
Summer Hours (April 1 to October 31): Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, 9 am to 5 pm
Winter Hours (November 1 to March 31): Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday only 9 am to 5 pm

All Recycling Centres are closed on all Statutory Holidays, Easter Monday, Boxing Day, and Truth and Reconciliation Day

A building permit is required before:

(a) constructing, reconstructing, repairing or altering a building or structure,

(b) removing or relocating a building or structure,

(c) changing an occupancy or use of a building or structure,

(d) conducting a “tenant improvement” in an existing commercial or industrial suite,

(e) removing, altering or adding a plumbing distribution system and or drain, waste and venting system,

(f) demolishing a building,

(g) constructing or adding a fireplace, woodstove or chimney,

(h) constructing or altering a farm building or,

(i) constructing or altering a retaining structure.

Note: Gas and Electrical Work is regulated by Technical Safety BC

To get a building permit, you must first apply by submitting a complete application to 175 Ingram Street, Duncan or by e-mail inspections@cvrd.bc.ca. See here for our Building Permit Application and a list of general requirements.

Please refer to the Building Permit Fee Schedule found in the CVRD Building Bylaw for new residential construction .  For Renovation or Complex projects, fees will be 1% of the estimated construction value.

Please include this data with your application.

You will pay for your building permit when the permit has been issued and it is time to pick it up. Permit fees shall be paid by cash, debit or cheque payable to the Cowichan Valley Regional District. Please note: credit card is not accepted.

We are committed to processing all permit applications as quickly as possible. For residential construction (new houses, additions, alterations and accessory buildings) the processing depends on the time of year and volume of permits. Please contact the building department at 250-746-2610 to get an estimate of the current processing times.  Incomplete applications are often the main reason for an increase in processing times.

This will be at the discretion of the Area Building Official. Receiving an incomplete application can result in a longer wait time than an otherwise complete application as incomplete applications are placed in a suspension queue while they wait for additional submission.

Typically, 2 years. If the first inspection is not called for within the first 6 months, or work discontinues for 12 months, a permit can expire. It is recommended to maintain communication with your Building Official regarding expiration.

By calling 250-746-2610 or by e-mailing inspections@cvrd.bc.ca. You MUST have your permit number and civic address. Please also be prepared to leave your name, phone number and the date requested. Special instructions or information is also required, for example; a gate code, key location or the presence of a dog. See here for more information on booking inspections. See here for more information on the building permit process, including required inspections.

Most typical inspections are: 

Footings

Perimeter Drains, Damp proofing and Roof Leaders

Water, Storm, and/or Sewer Connections

Under Slab Plumbing

Under Slab Poly, Insulation and Radon Piping

Exterior Sheathing

Rough-in Plumbing

Framing and Braced Wall Panels

Insulation

Rainscreen/Building Envelope

Final or Occupancy

Inspections will occur between 8:00am - 4:30pm on the day of your request. Building Officials will not call ahead to meet you. It is the responsibility of the inspection requestor to be available between 8:00am and 4:30 on the day of the inspection.

You can view a copy of the BC Building Code here.

Sheds that are a maximum of 10 sq. m. (107 sq. ft.) do not require a Building Permit provided that they do not create a hazard. Minimum setbacks to property lines apply and depend on which zone the shed is located in. Larger sheds do require a permit.  If your shed is under 10 sq.m. and contains plumbing, a building permit will be required. If a deck structure is 24” or less in height throughout the perimeter of the structure without manipulating grade, a building permit is not required. Measurements are taken from existing grade to the top of the walking surface.  A building permit is required for ALL elevated decks. In all cases, setbacks apply to deck structures. If you are unsure about a specific project, contact our office.

To obtain copies of building inspection records for a specific property you must complete a request for information form and submit it to inspections@cvrd.bc.ca. Make sure to include the property owner's consent and what information you require so we can determine if releasing the records is in keeping with policies and legislative requirements. Charges may apply for copying plans or other large documents.

Island Health maintains septic records in the CVRD and the province of BC maintains a well registry. The CVRD may have septic or well information on file if building permits were previously issued on a property and it was within the time that building file records were kept (mid-1970's and forward). This information may be obtained through a Property Information Request. 

Maybe - Check with your Building Official

For general questions contact 250-746-2610 or email inspections@cvrd.bc.ca. Questions often cannot be completely answered without specific parcel information.

Lumber used for structural components must be graded in accordance with National Lumber Grades Authority (NLGA) standard grading rules for Canadian lumber.

Typically, lumber is graded and stamped at the source of manufacture. With site cut lumber, the grading can be done on-site by a qualified grader who provides the necessary certification for the owner and subsequent verification by the Building Official where required by the BC Building Code.

The CVRD is within Climate Zone 4 and 5, depending on the area, see our Electoral Area Climatic Data here.

See here for more information.

Zoning is a land management tool used by local governments to separate uses. Each of the nine Electoral Areas has a Zoning Bylaw with regulations specific for each zone, including; use, density and siting (e.g. setbacks). Permitted uses are identified for each zone additionally, each Zoning Bylaw is equipped with a section on definitions and general regulations. The CVRD web map can help you quickly determine what your property is zoned. For more information on how to use the Web Map see "What is the Web Map and how do I use it?"

Riparian areas can be defined as the area of land adjacent to a watercourse or body of water, a ditch, spring or wetland, whether or not usually containing water (see image below). The entire CVRD is within a Riparian Protection Development Permit Area (DPA). It is the responsibility of the property owner(s) to ensure there are no activities in the riparian area, or apply for a development permit. For more information on Riparian Areas, please click here.

For visualization purposes only.

The online Web Map allows anyone to search their property and find important information like zoning, OCP designations, development permit areas, service areas and more. To use the Web Map simply go to the Web Map and click on desktop icon (see image #1). From there a disclaimer statement will appear, click 'accept'. The map will launch and show the entire Regional District. To find your property you can either search by scrolling in and navigating to it, or use the address tool or parcel identifier (PID) for bare land (see image #2). Once you have found the property, use the 'identify tool' (top left - see image #3) by clicking on the tool and then on the property. By doing this, information should populate on the left side. From there you can click on any of the items shown in that list for more information. Links to other relevant bylaws are also provided (see image #4). 

An accessory dwelling unit, also known as granny suite, separate suite, small suite or carriage house, is a smaller house located on the same lot as a single-family dwelling. The building can be purpose built or may be a conversion of/or to an existing garage or accessory building. The maximum permitted size of these units varies across electoral areas and can be found in the applicable Zoning Bylaw.

Accessory dwelling units are allowed in many zones throughout the CVRD (with the exception of Area G). This specific use, however, depends on the size of the property and the level of servicing. To find out if your zoning allows an accessory dwelling unit first check the specific zone in the zoning bylaw, then confirm the size of your property meets the minimum parcel size required depending on its level of servicing. Not sure what your zoning is? Check out our Web Map! Please make sure to check with the Building Department for code and permit requirements prior to undertaking any work.

A secondary suite is a self-contained residential unit within a home. They can be located in a basement of a dwelling or attached at ground level to the dwelling. The CVRD zoning bylaws for each electoral area regulates the maximum size of the secondary suite and do vary by electoral area. Always consider the specific zone, general regulations and definitions when determining eligibility for a secondary suite. To find out if your zoning allows a secondary suite on your property, first check the specific zone in the zoning bylaw, then confirm the size of your property meets the minimum parcel size required depending on its level of servicing. Not sure what your zoning is? Check out our Web Map!

Secondary suites are permitted in many residential zones throughout the CVRD. This specific use, however, depends on the size of the property and its level of servicing (e.g. connection to water and sewer). To find out if your zoning allows a secondary suite on your property, first check the specific zone in the zoning bylaw, then confirm the size of your property meets the minimum parcel size required depending on its level of servicing. Not sure what your zoning is? Check out our Web Map!

Development Permit Areas (DPAs) require permits under certain circumstances. Local governments have the authority to designate development permit areas in an official community plan. These identify locations that need special treatment for certain purposes including the protection of development from hazards, establishing objectives for form and character in specified circumstances, or revitalization of a commercial use area. This authority can also be used to achieve climate action goals for energy conservation, water conservation and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Unless a development permit is obtained, development in such areas is restricted.

If an official community plan designates development permit areas, then the implementing guidelines may be located in the official community plan or in the zoning bylaw.

A Development Permit (DP) is a land use permit used by local governments to review proposed developments to ensure they meet the policies and objectives of the Official Community Plan (OCP), and satisfy all required regulations in the zoning bylaw. A Development Permit may specify requirements respecting the character of development, including landscaping, and the siting, form, exterior design and finish of buildings and structures; environmental protection; protection from hazardous conditions and protection of farming. DP's may also impose conditions respecting the sequencing and timing of construction. Within designated Development Permit Areas (DPAs) land must not be subdivided or altered and buildings or structures cannot be constructed or altered, unless the owner has first obtained a DP. Once approved (by the General Manager or CVRD Board), the DP is registered against the title of the land and becomes binding on future land owners.

If you are planning to develop your property and it's located within one or more Development Permit Areas (DPAs), you will need a Development Permit (DP) prior to obtaining a Building Permit or obtaining subdivision approval, unless otherwise exempt. It is important to remember, a DP is not a building permit. To find out if your  project requires a DP application you can call staff or follow the instructions below:

1. Visit the online Web Map tool, search your property using the address tool or Parcel Identifier (PID)
2. Identify your property using the 'identify' tool (top left) - click on your property. Information should populate on the left side including the parcel boundaries, survey plans and development permit areas. 
3. If your property is within a Development Permit Area it will appear in that list as 'DPA #'. Click on the DPA. At the bottom there will be a hyperlink to the Official Community Plan for the Electoral Areas. 
4. Schedule C of the OCP is where you will find the Development Permit Area guidelines, definitions and exemptions. If your project does not meet one of the exemptions under the applicable DPA you will need a DP, prior to altering the land in anyway.

A Development Variance Permit (DVP) is a land use permit used by local governments to 'vary' or relax a regulation. A DVP is required whenever proposed development does not meet a regulation in a zoning bylaw, sign bylaw, subdivision bylaw or parking bylaw. Examples of regulations that may be varied include building setbacks, height or site coverage. Keep in mind - a DVP cannot vary land use or density. In order to do change a land use or the density of that use you will require a rezoning application. DVP applications are discretionary, which means depending on the merits of the situation it may be denied. All DVPs are first heard by the Electoral Areas Services Committee (EASC) and then approved/denied by the CVRD Board.

Although 'Air B&B Inc.' is a specific short term rental marketing company, it is commonly used as a blanket term when talking about short term rentals. Zones that permit short term rentals are limited in the CVRD. Bed and breakfast short term rentals are permitted within most single-family dwellings, however they are regulated, and generally require that it be contained within a single family dwelling (not an accessory building), and that the owner reside in the single family dwelling. To determine if your property is within one of these areas, please consult the Zoning Bylaw to determine the permitted uses on your property. You can find your zone and a link to the zoning bylaw using the Web Map.  Note: secondary suites and accessory dwelling units/detached suites are typically intended for long term rentals.

The CVRD does not have a tree cutting bylaw. The CVRD does, however, regulate the cutting of trees in certain areas that have been designated as a Development Permit Area (DPA) and may even prohibit the cutting of trees and other vegetation. The Riparian Area Protection DPA is one of these areas that will require a permit prior to cutting or removal of any vegetation. Other areas that may require a permit prior to cutting trees are areas designated as a sensitive ecosystem and/or steep slope. 

Tree cutting should occur during identified low-risk timing periods (mid-September to January). If tree cutting must occur outside this time window, a thorough nest search should be conducted. Removal or modification of a nest tree requires written permission (permit) from the Province (MoE) and may also require a federal permit.

The BC Building Code requires all dwellings to be code compliant, have permanent foundations, and be connected to an approved septic system. It is not the size that counts, but the connection to services and compliance with the BC Building Code. The zoning bylaws regulate the maximum size of a dwelling but not the minimum (except some in Area D). Note: tiny homes on wheels, or recreational vehicles on wheels, are not permitted to be used as full time dwellings because they do not meet BC Building Code Regulations.

Yes, as of May 1, 2023 the province of BC has mandated minimum Step 3 of the BC Energy Step Code. Step Code compliance is required for all new houses (except moved-on homes and CSA Z240 homes) and commercial/institutional/industrial buildings, please review the CVRD's Step Code page here.

Review the CVRD Climatic Data document for your Electoral Area.

Although we don't require a building permit for the construction of a fence, we do regulate the height of fences in the zoning bylaw. Make sure to check the 'general regulations' section in the zoning bylaw before you dig.

You may request information from an existing building file using the following form. The form must be filled out by the listing agent and home owner then emailed to inspections@cvrd.bc.ca

Once we receive your email, you will be notified if information is available. Printing documents is provided for $0.25 per page. When your package is ready for pick up you may pick it up at 175 Ingram Street, Duncan. Unfortunately we cannot send documents electronically. Please note, identification is required at time of pick up.

Yes. The CVRD requires building permits for pools in order to enforce setbacks, and ensure proper fencing and gating. The reason for which is to ensure the safety of children, pets, and wildlife. Similarly, if a retaining wall is required for a pool, you may need a building permit for it as well.

A 'swimming pool' means any structure or construction intended primarily for recreation that is, or is capable of, being filled with water to a depth of 0.6 metres (2 feet) or more. For the purpose of this definition a hot tub shall not be considered a swimming pool.

With Plan Your Cowichan, you can help shape the Cowichan Valley’s future. There are more options for you to give feedback, ideas, choose areas on project map that are meaningful to you, and even join a community circle where you and other residents can be directly involved in giving project feedback through online guided discussions. 

Yes, you can unregister and/or unsubscribe to let us know you no longer want to receive information or participate.

Some projects allow residents to follow project news without registering to Plan Your Cowichan. Both registered and unregistered residents may choose the “Subscribe” option to receive newsletters for example. The sign up / register banner may be included on project pages if you have not yet registered to Plan Your Cowichan. As a registered participant you have far more engagement options with the tools available on project pages. Please note, without registering, you will not be able to participate in using certain features and tools such as registered participant surveys, adding your own idea, using map to add pins, etc.

In-person events for public engagement are an important and valuable forum for making community connections with one another. As Covid-19 pandemic restrictions ease, we’ll be evaluating safety measures, public enthusiasm for in-person engagement and event forum availability. When a decision is reached for the return of some in-person engagement sessions, it will be made public via CVRD website news, social media channels and other available media.

The CVRD’s curbside collection program has been experiencing significant disruptions over the past several months due to ongoing mechanical failures in our ageing collection fleet. While two new curbside trucks have been ordered, they will not arrive until 2024 due to supply chain issues. Adding a Saturday collection day allows older trucks to have more repair and maintenance time, which will make it easier to stay ahead of breakdowns and restore levels of service until the new trucks arrive.

Letters will be sent to each residence that will experience a change in service, outlining the new pick-up date and subsequent collection schedule.

Residents are also encouraged to download the Cowichan Recycles app to receive notices for curbside disruptions and up-to-date collection schedules for their address.

We have been working hard to secure a rental truck from anywhere across North America, but few are available and those that exist are already rented by organizations that are also waiting on new collection vehicles. Garbage and recycling in the CVRD is collected by an automated system (drivers do not manually lift containers), and we need to rent a vehicle that suits our service requirements.

Drivers are currently working upwards of 12-hour shifts to maintain the current level of service. Collection late into the evening is already occurring, and pre-dawn collection can lead to totes being left out overnight which creates issues with wildlife.

Saturday collection reduces the size of current collection routes, allowing trucks to get routine maintenance and repairs as needed. Spreading out collection routes also ensures that a spare truck is available for backup if a breakdown occurs.

Until the two new collection vehicles arrive in 2024.

Residents with new collection schedules will not have to wait longer than two weeks between their old and new pickup dates.

Yes. CVRD zoning and building bylaws allow the temporary use of an RV during new home construction under the following conditions:

1. A Building Permit for a House has been issued by the CVRD and construction has started.
2. The RV bears a CSA Z240 certification and can be licensed under the Motor Vehicle Act.
3. The use of an RV must cease after 12 months or 30 from the issuance of an Occupancy Permit,  whichever is first
4. Sewage shall be disposed of at approved off-site locations, or if it is disposed of on-site, in a location and manner that is permitted by CVRD and Island Health
5. The RV shall be located no closer than 4.5 m to any parcel line.

 Check with CVRD Development Services prior to getting started.  Not all CVRD Electoral Areas allow the same conditions.

Smoke pollution from open burning can seriously impact your health, as well as the health and well-being of your family and neighbours. Please consider alternatives to burning such as chipping or drop your yard waste off at any CVRD recycling centre.

 Visit the Burning and Air Quality page.

Development Permit Areas (DPAs) are areas where special requirements and guidelines for any development or alteration of the land are in effect. DPA’s provide responsible development within environmentally sensitive areas and areas prone to natural hazards. Call to find out if your project needs a permit or if it is exempt.

Visit the Development Permit Guide.

Coastal Animal Control Services of BC is contracted to provide dog control services to the Electoral Areas of the CVRD.  Coastal Animal Control Services is the first contact for all dog related issues. A lost dog wearing a valid dog license can help reunite you with your dog.

Visit the Dogs webpage.

Obtaining a building permit when required can help you protect the value of your property ensuring it is built right.

 Visit the Building Inspection page for more information.

An RV is a recreational vehicle designed to be used as short term temporary quarters for recreational, camping or travel use. RV’s include 5^th wheels, travel trailers, campers and motorhomes. “Park models” (CSA – Z241) are a larger version also designed for RV parks and campgrounds. Although they sometimes appear similar to a manufactured home, they are not the same and do not comply with dwelling regulations. The use of an RV or park model as full-time or seasonal dwelling is prohibited.

The term “tiny home” is used interchangeably for different kinds of units. They may be built to be portable, often on a flat bed trailer, and as such are similar to an RV. Tiny homes do not meet the requirements of a dwelling and are prohibited to be used as such.

“Tiny Homes” which are sold locally by RV dealers are constructed to a CSA - Z240RV standard which is subject to the Motor Vehicle Act.  Although they resemble residential structures,  they are not designed for use as permanent dwelling units and are to be treated in the same respect as a camper, trailer or motorhome.  “Tiny Homes” which are constructed on a U-Build Trailer Chassis at home or anywhere not certified through CSA would be considered as illegal structures through the BC Building Code and the CVRD Building Bylaw and may be subject to Bylaw Enforcement.

Its valuable to understand the differences between the CSA standards:

CSA Z240MH (Mobile Home) : Approved under the BC Building Code.  A Building Permit from the CVRD is required.

CSA Z240RV (Recreational Vehicle) : Not recognized by the BC Building Code and cannot be issued a building permit.  Subject to the Motor Vehicle Act

CSA Z241 (Park Model) : Not recognized by the BC Building Code but may be used temporarily for recreational purposes in some areas.  Check with CVRD Development Services.

 Legitimate RV’s for personal use may be stored on a your property,  but they may not be lived in simultaneously.

Check out what you can do on your property by visiting Planning & Development's FAQ's page.

Illegal dumping comes at a cost to everyone in the Cowichan region. Illegal dumping causes environmental damage to our forests and waterways and creates health and safety risks for visitors and residents.

 Learn more on the Illegal Dumping webpage.

The CVRD soil bylaw is intended to regulate deposits of clean soil, and to prevent unauthorized imports of contaminated soil and deleterious impacts to streams and other environmentally sensitive features. Gravel, rock and other substances of which land is naturally composed may also be subject to a permit. Did you know there are some permit exemptions and permits are free for volumes less than 100 m3 in a calendar year.

Visit the Soil webpage to learn more. 

Every year hundreds of bears are destroyed in BC as a result of conflicts between people and bears. Most of these problems begin when people allow bears to access non-natural food sources such as garbage. Be Bear Aware, do not leave your totes out overnight and store your totes in a wildlife-resistant manner. 
Learn more at the Curbside Collection Overview page.

Do you know of a pot hole that needs desperate repair or an unsafe situation on a roadway? CVRD is not responsible for road maintenance or snow plowing as it falls under the purview of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure.

Find out more about Road Maintenance and Provincial contractors. 

The goal of Bylaw No. 4514 is to minimize the impact of fireworks to livestock and pets, to reduce noise, and risk of injury. A permit is required to discharge fireworks. Please be considerate of your neighbours. Consider people, pets and eco-friendly alternatives to fireworks. A person may only discharge fireworks with a CVRD issued permit.

When we are experiencing drought conditions, there are a number of steps you can take to conserve water and prepare yourself to deal with the lack of water.

Visit the New Normal Cowichan website to learn more. 

Each and every park user can make a positive difference in the overall enjoyment of parks by doing their part. This includes picking up after your pets, leaving natural vegetation in place and ensuring any garbage is carried out or properly disposed of. 

Please enjoy CVRD Parks & Trails while being mindful of the bylaws in place.

The Agricultural Land Commission (ALC) is an independent tribunal dedicated to preserving agricultural land and enabling farming. Farming is encouraged through the Agricultural Land Commission Act and non-agricultural uses are restricted. Land in the ALR is subject to compliance with all other legislation including local government regulation. For more information visit the ALC website.

Information on buying and owning land in the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR).

Do you need to talk with your neighbour about a problem that’s come up between you? Maybe you’ve been meaning to have that talk but aren’t sure how to bring up the issue. Or maybe you’re worried about approaching your neighbour. 

Learn tips to help you talk with your neighbour.

If you were served a municipal ticket, you have 14 days in which to pay the fine specified on the ticket and accept liability for the offence, or notify the Cowichan Valley Regional District that you wish to dispute the ticket.

Disputed municipal tickets are referred by the CVRD to the Provincial Court for hearing. Upon referral, the clerk of the court issues a notice of a hearing that sets the time and place for the hearing and notifies the CVRD and the disputant.

The penalties associated with a municipal ticket do not place the alleged contravener in jeopardy of imprisonment, and the fine amounts are relatively small, therefore the presiding justice has some flexibility to hear a wider range of relevant, credible and trustworthy testimony as evidence and to adopt procedures that speed the fair conclusion of the hearing.

 If a person has indicated that they wish to dispute the allegation and fails to attend the hearing, the justice must review the ticket and convict the person in their absence and impose the penalty if the ticket appears to be in order. A person convicted in their absence who was not at fault for missing the hearing, may apply to the court for a time extension under limited circumstances.

If a person fails to respond to the ticket at all, neither paying the fine nor notifying the district that they want to dispute, the CVRD may submit the ticket to the Provincial Court for consideration by a justice. The justice must review the ticket and convict the person in his or her absence and impose the penalty if the ticket appears to be in order. A claim may be sought for the recovery of the fine.

Payment can be made by cash, cheque, debit or credit card. If you pay by mail or dropbox, your payment must be accompanied by either a copy of the ticket or a note with the following information: ticket number, full name, address, offence and violation date. 
If you fail to include this information, the payment may not be credited to you and the fine will remain outstanding. 

The complaint is reviewed to determine if it is valid and related to District bylaws and if so, a file is created and assigned to a Bylaw Officer. If the complaint is valid but relates to a regulation that is administered by another governing agency you will be provided with the contact information for that agency.

The Bylaw Enforcement Officer will aim to negotiate a reasonable compliance plan and time frame to achieve voluntary compliance. The compliance plan may accommodate unusual circumstances such as seasonal and financial constraints or personal situations. Education and warnings are not appropriate in all circumstances and more direct enforcement may be taken such as immediate ticketing. If the violation is serious or ongoing, the Bylaw Enforcement Officer may recommend that the District approve legal action to acquire a court order to gain compliance.

Yes. Bylaw Enforcement Officers inspect to confirm that voluntary compliance has taken place before closing a file; however, in some instances, a property owner will violate the bylaw again at a later date and a new complaint may be necessary to reopen the file.

Bylaw enforcement is primarily complaint driven but our Officers proactively patrol communities. The BEO (Bylaw Enforcement Officer) may seek out bylaw infractions for issues of public health and/or safety or other bylaw violations during the regular course of their duties. 

HHW products require safe, responsible handling. Liquids should be transported in their original labelled container, sealed and upright. Use secondary packaging to contain leaky containers. Do not mix wastes.

Whenever possible, use alternatives. For example, vinegar and baking soda are excellent natural alternatives to chemical cleaners. If you must purchase hazardous products, limit the amount you buy, properly store what you don’t use, and dispose of excess materials appropriately at a CVRD Recycling Centre or another facility listed in the Cowichan Recyclopedia.

HHW is dangerous to people, pets, and the environment. If hazardous wastes are put in the garbage or poured into the sewer or storm drain, it can result in environmental and public health hazards.

Do not flush or pour HHW liquids down the drain, dispose of them in the environment, or place them in your garbage can. As sewage systems and private septic systems do not filter or remove these products from wastewater, HHW can enter our waterways. If disposed of incorrectly, toxic materials can harm aquatic life, destroy sensitive ecosystems, and pollute recreational sites or water supplies. Explosions or fires caused by HHW may also harm sanitary workers and can damage infrastructure or equipment.