City of Courtenay Official Community Plan - 2026 update

C

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Objective 2 A variety of housing options are permitted and positively integrated in all neighbourhoods

Policies

H 9

Require that a diversity of housing types and unit sizes be provided in rezoning applications for large developments. Ensure that development of multi-residential units occur in early phases of the subdivision. Encourage a minimum of 10% of new residential units be universally accessible in multi-residential rezoning applications. Encourage unit mixes, including family-oriented units, that reflect the data in the latest Housing Needs Report. Support amendments to the National Building Code and BC Building Code to facilitate the development of various sizes and types of housing. Engage with and educate residents on the value of diversity of housing types distributed throughout Courtenay.

H 10

H 11

H 12

H 13

Policies Objective 3 Maintain and increase rental housing stock

H 14

Only consider permitting the conversion of existing occupied multi-residential rental buildings to strata ownership when the vacancy rate as reported by CMHC exceeds 3% for a period of at least 24 months. Monitor the rental market vacancy rate and adjust regulation on short-term rental accommodations to be more or less restrictive in support of a healthy rental vacancy rate (3-5%). Adjustments should be made based on a minimum of 2 consecutive years of data. Consider, including where and when, to implement Residential Rental Tenure Zoning for existing and proposed rental housing stock. Encourage applicants for property rezoning to propose a strategy to accommodate displaced tenants that exceeds provincial requirements, when properties with existing purpose-built rental, co-op, and mobile home units are redeveloped or renovated as a result of the rezoning. Consider complementing or enhancing provincial support for renters and their homes by exploring mechanisms to:

H 15

H 16

H 17

H 18

a. Support proactive upkeep of building maintenance to prolong life of the buildings and to help protect a standard of health and safety for tenants;

b. Mitigate the negative impacts of tenant displacement when properties with existing purpose-built rental, co-op and mobile home units are redeveloped or renovated.

PART C Thematic Policies