CSRD increases parcel coverage in areas of the North Shuswap

Following the adoption of three bylaw amendments, property owners looking to construct buildings in most residential and waterfront zones in Anglemont, Magna Bay and Scotch Creek will now be able to build larger buildings on their property than before.

Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) Directors approved a proposal at the October 15, 2020 Regular Meeting to increase parcel coverage size from 25 to 30 per cent.

Parcel coverage, which is expressed as a percentage of the total property parcel size, means the amount of land on a property that can be covered by buildings. It is regulated to ensure there is adequate area for services such as septic fields and groundwater wells, as well as assisting in ensuring appropriate storm water drainage.

The three zoning amendments apply to specific residential zones affecting waterfront properties along Shuswap Lake, as well as upland parcels with related zoning designations. They have also been revised to create consistency among the zoning bylaws for the three communities.

The CSRD proposed the parcel coverage amendments after hearing from some North Shuswap residents, members of the construction industry and the Electoral Area F Director that 25 per cent parcel coverage was too restrictive for construction.

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Parcel coverage applies to buildings only, it does not apply to hard surfaces like asphalt or concrete. For example, driveways or patios would not be considered in calculating parcel coverage.

A property owner may now apply to increase the parcel coverage size beyond the 30 per cent mark by way of a Development Variance Permit. This is a more efficient method than the previous method, which required a bylaw amendment.

With the Board’s adoption of the zoning amendments, the new parcel coverage regulations take effect immediately.

Development requirements vary across the CSRD. Before moving ahead with any construction project, please confirm the land use, development and building permits that apply to your property by contacting Development Services Department at 250.832.8194 or toll free at 1.888.248.2773. You can also email plan@csrd.bc.ca