Our Planning Services department helps develop land use policies that provide guidance to elected officials, developers, the public and other decision makers. We are responsible for developing and implementing land use plans and environmental protection guidelines, regulations and initiatives. Staff evaluates applications and provides recommendations to the Regional Board. In the Planning section we assist the public with an understanding and interpretation of provincial legislation, land use regulations, applications, and processes. Activities are geared towards balancing growth with maintaining and enhancing the unique Central Okanagan lifestyle and environment.
The Regional District is dedicated to protecting and enhancing natural and environmentally sensitive areas and achieving sustainable development. We have a commitment to protect and enhance the natural environment through land use planning, special projects, development regulations and public education.
The long-term sustainability of our region depends upon the natural environment - the quality of the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the land upon which we live and grow our food. Ensuring that a healthy environment exists today and into the future is everyone's responsibility.
With this in mind, our Planning Services department oversees the following:
- The development of land use policies that provide guidance to elected officials, developers, the public and other decision makers;
- Puts land use plans and policies into action;
- Ensures proper infrastructure and orderly development;
- Evaluates applications and provides recommendations to decision makers;
- Assists the public with land use regulations, applications, and processes;
- Invites and responds to public comments.
| Book a pre-application meeting |
Prior to any land disturbance on a property a planning application and approval from the RDCO may be required. Depending on the extent of the proposal, the following technical information may be required:
To book a pre-application meeting with a planner, please email planning@rdco.com and include the following in the request:
Once staff receive the pre-application meeting request, they will review the proposal and provide information for a telephone meeting and if any further information is required. |
| Informational guides and frequently used documents |
Please see the Planning Applications page for specific application requirements. |
| Property information |
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To request a property information request (PIR) including building permit history, zoning information and general property information, please visit: Property Information Requests Use GIS maps for general information on a property including zoning, development permit areas and yearly imagery: Maps and GIS For more information, review the Zoning Bylaw no. 871 or the Joe Rich Rural Land Use Bylaw Check for any conditions or restrictions on your property when you request a title search from the LTSA office. |
| Secondary suites |
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On June 13, 2024, the Regional Board approved adoption of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 871-288, which proposed adding Secondary Suites as a permitted use in 13 residential zones and amended the zoning of 29 lots that were rezoned under the RDCO’s previous process for permitting suites. New regulations allow for one suite within the principal dwelling in all residential zones that allow single family dwellings. A site-specific zoning amendment is no longer required. Please note: this does not outright allow secondary suites on ALL properties. Property owners must still apply for a Building Permit to ensure adequate site servicing and building code compliance can be achieved for the property. Site-specific constraints may mean that it will not be feasible to develop a suite on all lots. For information on building permit requirements, please visit: Building Permits and Inspections |
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Secondary suites - Joe Rich |
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An application to amend Joe Rich Rural Land Use Bylaw No. 1195 to allow a secondary suite is required if your property is located in Joe Rich. Your property must have the necessary land use designation to allow a secondary suite. In addition to completing the application forms, you must submit the site disclosure statement from the Ministry of Environment. Refer to the application form or contact us for information on additional application requirements. |
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Short-term accommodation uses |
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Business licenses are required for short-term occupancy accommodations, where the use is explicitly permitted by the RDCO Zoning Bylaw #871 or Joe Rich Rural Land Use Bylaw #1195. These include:
STOA business license applications require a completed self-evaluation attestation and a copy of the posted fire safety plan. RDCO Inspection Services and/or Fire Services may also require a site inspection for safety compliance. |
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Wildfire covenants |
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Construction within a Wildfire Interface Development Permit Area requires registration of a wildfire covenant. Contact your notary public or lawyer for assistance with registering a wildfire covenant on your property.
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