Determine Your Property’s Development Potential
Follow these steps to determine your property’s development potential:
1. Review your property information
Use the GeoSource Mapping Tool to view:
- Zoning
- Approximate lot dimensions
- Community and neighbourhood plan area
- Development permit areas
- Site features like watercourses, trees, and road access
Property details in GeoSource are for reference only. Confirm accuracy with a BC land surveyor (BCLS).
2. Explore the Layer List in GeoSource
- Activate the Environment layer to view watercourses and classifications.
- Activate the Planning layer and select the following overlays for full context:
| Layer Name | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Neighbourhoods | Shows plan boundaries & identifies neighbourhood area. |
| Communities | Shows broader community plan area. |
| Zoning | Links to zoning bylaw section, where you can scroll to your specific zone. |
| Designated Areas | Shows development permit areas. |
| Rural Land Use | Displays rural land use designations. |
| CP/NP Designation | Displays land use designation and possible density. |
The Township assumes no responsibility for accuracy of GeoSource data. Use for reference only.
3. Read the Plan
Familiarity with area plans will strengthen your application and support productive discussions with Development Planning staff
- Review relevant Community and Neighbourhood Plans
- Understand key policies on:
- Maximum permitted density
- Servicing and infrastructure requirements
- Prerequisites for development
4. Review requirements:
Township requirements:
The Zoning Bylaw provides information such as:
- minimum lot size requirements
- permitted uses
- lot coverage
- building restrictions
The Subdivision and Development Servicing Bylaw provides information such as:
- Servicing requirements
- Tree Protection requirements
To streamline your application process, make sure your proposal:
- Aligns with all applicable land use plans
- Complies with development bylaws and policies
- Addresses any development permit requirements.
Regional and Provincial requirements:
Your proposal will be evaluated against existing plans and regulations at every level. Be sure to:
- Check your property’s designation in Metro Vancouver's Regional Growth Strategy (RGS)
- Determine if your property is within the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR)
5. Hire qualified professionals
A well-supported team increases your chance of success. Engage planning and development experts who understand local bylaws and processes and can help:
- Interpret complex regulations
- Design proposals that meet Township standards
- Assess servicing requirements with a civil engineer
6. Talk to us early
Request a pre-application discussion with Development Services staff. This helps clarify requirements and identify potential challenges up front. Fill-in the Pre-Application Request Form
What happens next?
- If your question is answered in the information available online, staff will refer you to the webpage. Otherwise, a Development Planner will provide initial feedback within 30 days.
- If a meeting is needed, the Development Planner will schedule it directly.