Development Permit

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What is a Development Permit?

Development Permits are used to regulate how land, buildings, and structures are designed and developed in Saanich.

Depending on the location of a property, a proposal may require multiple Development Permits. The Development Permit Area Guidelines are identified in Schedule B of the Official Community Plan Bylaw and provide detailed guidance for each permit type.

The decision to approve or deny a Development Permit is a stand-alone decision, however multiple applications (e.g. Rezoning and Development Permit) can be processed at the same time. Variances to some aspects of the Zoning Bylaw and Subdivision Bylaw can be addressed within a Development Permit.

With the exception of Non-Market Housing projects, Form and Character Development Permits typically require Council approval. All other Development Permits can be considered by the staff through delegated authority.

Ready to Apply? Land Use Application Form

Development Permit Types and Objectives

Form and Character — Manage the site design, landscaping and building design within proposed developments across Saanich. 
  • Multi-Unit Residential
  • Commercial, Industrial, Mixed Use or Institutional
  • Small Scale Multi Use Housing (SSMUH) — 5- and 6-unit projects only

Fire Hazard — Reduce the risk of wildfire and minimize the risk to people and property from natural hazards.

Floodplain — Protect environmentally sensitive landscapes from the risk of flooding and minimize the risk to people and property from natural hazards.

Stormwater — Minimize the effect of development on stormwater runoff.

Streamside — Protect streams, riparian areas and adjacent upland areas from development, and restore and enhance the natural features that support fish and wildlife.

Tenant Protection Bylaw — Support tenants who face displacement for the purposes of a proposal for redevelopment.

The Development Permit Process 

1. The process begins when a Property Owner, or a person with the Owner’s permission, submits an application. 
2. The application is assigned to a File Manager, who reviews the suitability of the proposal by:
  • Reviewing if the proposed change is based on the adopted policy/regulatory context
  • Assessing if the proposed change aligns with the Development Permit Area Guidelines
  • Coordinating feedback received from other departments, external agencies, and the local community association.
    • In some Form and Character Development Permits, the file is referred to Saanich's Advisory Design Panel for a recommendation.
  • Providing feedback to the Applicant. Often, revised submissions and additional reviews are required in response to staff feedback.
3. When the file is ready for a decision, a report is prepared by the File Manager. The report is brought before Council, or the Director of Planning through delegated authority, to decide whether to approve or deny the Development Permit.

Form and Character Development Permit Amendments

An amendment to an issued Development Permit is required when proposed changes affect the approved design, increase the floor area of a building or structure, or change the approved use of space.

The difference between what has been approved in a Development Permit and what is being proposed in a Development Permit Amendment (DPA) can vary significantly. As a result, DPAs are categorized as major, minor, or inconsequential, with each category following a different approval process.

Development Permit amendments generally follow the same process as a new Development Permit application; however, review timelines are typically shorter and depend on the scope and complexity of the proposed changes. 

Strata Developments

In strata developments, the applicant must provide confirmation of support in the form of one of the following:
  • Formal Strata Council resolution or motion;
  • A letter of support; or
  • Owner Authorization, signed by the Strata President or another individual with authorized signing authority.