The opinions and views of community members are very important to us. This is why we offer a number of ways for the public to get involved with the development of plans, policies and projects. As it relates to planning and land use applications, there are many ways local residents can provide input on specific applications.
We are committed to including the public in the process and are responsive to the issues and comments we receive.
Public hearings
Public hearings are held for rezoning applications that require an amendment to the Official Community Plan (OCP), re-designation of a Rural Land Use Bylaw (RLUB), or land use contract discharge application. Public hearing notices are posted on our website, emailed to subscribers and mailed to properties within 150 metres of the property under application and 500 metres for lands governed by the Joe Rich RLUB. Public hearings are also noted on the RDCO calendar of events.
Public hearings are not required for proposals that align with the OCP. The Regional Board adopted Public Notice | Bylaw No. 1549, which outlines the process for when a public hearing is mandatory, not required or prohibited by legislation.
Decisions on planning and land use applications are made by the Regional Board. All input received before closure of the public hearing such as letters, advisory committee comments, application material and staff reports are considered by the Regional Board prior to their decision.
| Providing input before the Public Hearing |
| Submissions must be received by 12:00 p.m. the business day before the public hearing. All written input submitted will be circulated to the Regional Board to review when considering a decision on an application.
Written comments can be submitted to the Regional District Planning Services department in the following ways:
RDCO Planning Services |
| Providing input at the Public Hearing |
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The following procedures will be carried out by the Chair at the Public Hearing:
*Members of the Board may ask clarifying questions at any time during the Public Hearing proceedings.
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Public Notification
We notify the public in the following ways:
- A sign posted on the subject property.
- A written notice from the Regional District is mailed to properties within 150 metres of the property under application or 500 metres for lands governed by the Joe Rich RLUB.
- Notice posted on this webpage (below).
- E-notification through our subscribe system.
Sign up to receive Public Hearings and Notices direct to your inbox.
| Public Notices |
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Advisory committees
We have several advisory groups comprised of community members appointed by the Regional Board to review and provide comments on planning and land use application, as well as the development of plans, policies and projects.
Comments provided by individual advisory groups are considered by the Board when making a decision on a specific planning and land use application.
Check out our advisory committees webpage.