Development variance process streamlined with lower fee

The process to get a development variance permit through the Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) will be quicker and cheaper for some property owners.

The CSRD board has approved changes to the Development Services Procedures Bylaw to allow staff to deal with minor variance permits, rather than requiring review and approval by the board of directors.

“Effective immediately, CSRD staff will be able to issue approvals for minor development variance permit applications,” a CSRD news release stated. “In the bylaw, a ‘minor’ variance means a building setback variance of less than or equal to 50 per cent of the setback distance and where a hardship in complying with the existing regulations can be shown. This also covers retaining walls.”

Public notice of these applications will be sent to owners and tenants within 30 metres of the subject property to ensure the closest neighbours will be alerted and given the chance to provide comments.