Rezoning & Official Community Plan Amendment

Rezoning and Official Community Plan Amendment

• How long does the application process take?

  A rezoning or OCP amendment process usually takes between 6 and 8 months from the time a complete submission is received. (If a Development Permit or Development Variance Permit is required these applications can usually be processed concurrently within a bylaw amendment timeline.) Complex applications may require additional time. Submitting an incomplete application may result in increased processing times so it is recommended that you contact planning staff prior to submitting an application to ensure any complex issues are identified and to ensure your application is complete.

• How much does the application cost?

  Bylaw amendment application fees varies depending on the type of project proposed. Contact Planning staff to discuss. A full fee schedule can be found here: Application Fee Schedule (PDF).

• Who approves the application?

  Rezoning and OCP amendments are approved by Council. The application process has several stages and Council can deny approval at any point along the way. Applicants have the opportunity to appear as a delegation at a Regular Council Meeting and present their projects to Council. A detailed Application Flow Chart is included in the OCP/Rezoning Application Form which can be obtained from Planning staff.  

• Public Consultation

  The Town of Comox believes that public consultation is an important part of the development process and individuals and organizations can provide comments and submissions on OCP amendments and rezoning application at various stages throughout the process.

  All OCP amendments and the vast majority of rezoning applications must go through a Public Hearing, where Town residents may speak to their concerns or their support of development projects.

  The Town issues a Public Notice of Public Hearings that includes details on how Comox residents can provide written comments or speak in person at the Public Hearing on the application.

  If Council determines a Public Hearing is not required for a specific development application, citizens will still receive a Notice of Waiver, which details how they can submit comments on the application. For more information regarding the public consultation process and how Town residents can comment on a rezoning/OCP amendment application please contact the Planning Department at 250-339-1118.