Rezoning

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What is Rezoning?

Saanich's Zoning Bylaw is a regulatory document that includes various “zones” defining how a property can be used and developed. If property is proposed to be used or developed in a way that does not comply with the permitted uses or density of its zone, a Rezoning Application is required. 

The proposal to rezone the property is reviewed to determine if the change aligns with adopted Council policy for the area and the local context. The Zoning Bylaw covers considerations such as: 

Setbacks 

Required distance from the property lines for buildings and structures 

Height 

How tall a building or structure can be 

Lot Coverage 

Amount of the site that can be developed with buildings and structures 

Parking 

Amount of vehicle and bike parking required 

Uses 

Activities or building types allowed on a property 

Density 

Amount and size of units (massing) permitted 

Lot Size 

Minimum land area required to create a new lot by subdivision 

In cases where property owners wish to create smaller lot area requirements so a larger property can be rezoned and subdivided into two smaller properties, a Subdivision Application is also required.

Ready to Apply? Land Use Application Form

The Rezoning Process

1. A Property Owner, or a person with the Owner’s permission, submits an application.
2. The application is assigned to a File Manager to review the application by:
  • Reviewing applicable policies including the Official Community Plan and Centre, Corridor and Village Plans 
  • Checking for existing compliance with Saanich's Zoning Bylaw, Tree Protection Bylaw and required Servicing and Engineering Works.
  • Referring the application to relevant Saanich departments for comment. 
  • Providing notice and opportunities for public input.
  • Providing feedback to the Applicant. Often, revised submissions and additional reviews are required in response to staff feedback.  
  • Preparing a Council report providing the background on the property and application, relevant details of the site, how the proposed zone meets existing policy, a recommendation of approval or denial, and any conditions that must be met. 

3. Council votes to approve or deny the rezoning application in a public meeting(s). There is an opportunity for members of the public to provide input directly to Council each time the proposed rezoning is on the council agenda.

  • If Council decides to advance the application, typically the Zoning Amendment Bylaw will be given Three Readings at the same Council meeting.
  • Final Reading/Approval of the proposed rezoning is given at a following meeting, often after specific conditions of approval (e.g. legal agreements) have been completed.

Official Community Plan Amendment

The Official Community Plan (OCP) outlines Saanich's long-term vision for how our community will grow and develop. It uses land use designations to guide where housing, businesses, parks, industry, and other uses may be located. The OCP also contains policies on topics such as environmental protection, climate change, transportation, and economic development.

An OCP amendment is required if a proposed new development does not align with the existing land use designation in the OCP or a more detailed Centre, Corridor, and Village Plan (considered part of the OCP Bylaw).

The Official Community Plan Amendment Process

1. Staff check if the proposal is consistent with the current OCP land use designation and OCP policy direction.
  • If the proposal is inconsistent with the OCP, the Applicant must apply for an OCP amendment as well as a rezoning.
2. District staff undergo a review of both applications at the same time (refer to the Rezoning Process above).
  • Most OCP amendment applications need additional information to justify the requested policy change and demonstrate community benefit.
  • All OCP amendments require a Public Hearing to allow Council to receive public input on the application.
3. Council decides whether to approve the OCP amendment.
  • If Council approves the OCP amendment, it can then consider the rezoning application. If Council does not approve the OCP amendment, the rezoning application cannot move forward.

Temporary Use Permits

A Temporary Use Permit (TUP) may be an alternative to rezoning when the proposed use is not allowed under the current zone. TUPs allow a use to occur for up to three years on a trial basis, without permanently changing the zoning.

A TUP can be renewed once, for a total of 6 years before a new application is required. Similar to OCP amendments, a TUP also requires a Public Hearing prior to Council providing a decision on an application.