City of Courtenay Official Community Plan - 2026 update

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Amenity Cost Charges (ACCs)

i. the maximum benefit density that may be permitted above base as-of-right density identified in the Zoning Bylaw. ii. the contribution requirement relative to the additional density granted. c) The Zoning Bylaw will be updated to reflect the base and benefit density thresholds identified in the Density Benefit Bylaw as may be required. d) Both base and benefit density are to remain consistent with the built form contemplated in the OCP Land Use policies or applicable Local Area Plan. e) Bonus density shall only be granted where the City is satisfied that defined community benefits have been secured from the applicant in a manner acceptable to the City. 2. Primary Priority - Affordable Housing a) Benefit density should primarily be used to secure affordable housing. b) Affordable housing may be provided on site, secured through Housing Agreements, or cash in lieu to the City’s Affordable Housing Reserve Fund when on site delivery is not, in the City’s opinion, feasible.

Intent – ACCs complement DCCs by financing eligible community amenities that are required as population increases, such as recreation facilities, parks amenities, and cultural spaces. Policies 1. Establish area-based or citywide ACC rates by bylaw and update them on a regular cycle. 2. Coordinate ACC project lists with OCP implementation priorities, strategic plans, and local area plans. 3. Maintain dedicated reserve funds and report annually on collections and expenditures.

Density Benefits Zoning

Intent – Density Benefit Zoning links additional development capacity to community

benefits in a predictable and transparent manner. It is a core tool for achieving affordable housing and other amenities when density exceeds base zoning.

Policies 1. Base and Benefit Structure

a) The City will develop, and update as required, a Density Benefit Bylaw that identifies the relevant areas of the city and zones within the City's Zoning Bylaw where increased density may be permitted in exchange for the contribution of affordable housing and other amenities. b) The Density Benefit Bylaw will include a schedule that clearly outlines, for each zone and area of the city, the following:

c) Affordable housing secured through density benefit should be long-term, include a mix of unit sizes, and be consistent with the Housing chapter objectives and policies.

3. Secondary Priority - Amenities a) The contribution requirement established by bylaw may be utilized to secure other amenities, including but not limited to:

City of Courtenay Official Community Plan