Glamping site gets two-year extension

Mar 14, 2023 | 4:00 PM

A “glampground” will be able to continue operations on a farming property in Coldstream.

Coldstream council has approved a two-year extension to a temporary use permit for the operation of the Utopia Feels Glampground at 6800 Learmouth Road in Lavington.

The permit allows for an overnight, agri-tourism accommodation business for the site in the agricultural land reserve (ALR).

Glamping is a luxury camping experience in which campers spend time in semi-indoor locations as opposed to the normal tent or sleeping bag. Glamping can also offer indoor amenities that regular camping lacks such as beds, electricity and indoor plumbing.

Council approved a one-year temporary permit in 2022 for owner Douglas Vidic at the 20-acre site on a trial basis.

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District staff say the applicant complied with the permit conditions.

“There have been no formal complaints received by the District or District Bylaw Enforcement about the operation of the site during the year,” a staff report to council stated.

The report said agri-tourism is a permitted use in the ALR and may not be prohibited by the local government. Agri-tourism accommodation is also allowed in the ALR, but only if also approved by the local government, and no more than 10 units are allowed.

The Lavington business includes farm tours, a petting zoo and on-site bell tents.

“The applicant has indicated an intent to expand to offer more food services and cooking facilities for site-grown produce,” the report stated.

Other highlights from Coldstream council’s March 13 meeting:

Rezoning Amendment Bylaw No. 1817, 2023 – Secondary Suite

Council adopted a rezoning bylaw amendment for a property requesting a secondary suite at 706 Middleton Way.

Repeal Bylaw No. 1820, 2023 – Former Women’s Institute Hall

Council adopted a bylaw to repeal District of Coldstream Park and Facility Use Fees Bylaw No. 1641, 2013. This bylaw established the rates for the former Women’s Institute Hall.

Facility Use Fee Bylaw No. 1821, 2023 – District Owned Facilities

Council gave first, second and third reading to a bylaw that establishes fees for the rental and use of District owned facilities. This bylaw includes the new fee structure for the new community hall.

2023 Spring Open Burning Dates

The 2023 Spring Open Burning period has been set as April 17 to May 1, 2023. Residents can contact the District office to inquire about eligibility for a burning permit.

Special Open Burning Permits – March 2023

Council received four applications for special burning permits. These permits allow, if permitted, the applicant to burn outside of the Spring Open Burning period. Two of the applications were approved and two were denied.

by Pete McIntyre

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