Zoning Bylaw

The Zoning Bylaw regulates land use in Courtenay. It determines where different types of buildings and activities are allowed and sets rules for building placement and density.

Reference documents:

Short-term rentals

Short-term rentals are not currently allowed in the City of Courtenay under Zoning Bylaw No. 2500, 2007. Staff are reviewing regulations for Council’s consideration that will include amendments to zoning, business and enforcement bylaws in alignment with provincial short-term rental regulations.

An introduction report was presented on April 24, 2024, and bylaw amendments were presented to Council for consideration on April 2, 2025.

For more information on short-term rentals, visit our Engage Comox Valley project page.

Interactive zoning map

The interactive zoning map shows the zoning for all properties within Courtenay, including links to applicable bylaws. It’s designed for the public as well as real estate professionals.

Applying for a zoning amendment

If your proposal does not align with current zoning, you must apply for a zoning amendment. Download the OCP & Zoning Amendment application form. The application process is outlined below:

1. Research

Before applying, review zoning regulations and development guidelines to understand what changes you need to make:

  • Check the zoning for the property using our interactive zoning map and Zoning Bylaw, and determine which regulations you want to amend.
  • Verify whether your proposal aligns with the land use designation using our interactive map (filter down to Official Community Plan > Land Use). If not, you may also need an Official Community Plan (OCP) amendment. Refer to our Official Community Plan page for amendment application instructions.
  • Ensure your proposal meets relevant guidelines and regulations, including
    • Development standards policies from the OCP. The OCP guides the city’s growth and affects zoning amendment approvals.
    • Sensitive lands (environmental, agricultural, hazards, steep slopes). Visit our development permits page for more details.
    • Provincial archeological and Cultural heritage requirements. If your project is near a watercourse or an area with high archaeological potential, K’ómoks First Nation (KFN) may require a Cultural Heritage Investigation Permit (CHIP) for. Contact KFN at 250-339-4545 ext. 112, or visit their website.
    • The Province may also have archeological requirements.
    • Development engineering specifications. Review the specifications for development engineering drawings to understand requirements like frontage improvements and servicing upgrades.

2. Discuss or meet with Planning staff

  • Contact Planning staff to discuss your proposal.
  • When you have prepared sufficient information for review, staff will arrange a meeting to discuss your proposal with you.
  • Staff will discuss requirements, fees and policies.

3. Prepare your application

Complete the application form and gather all required documents.

4. Submit your application

Once you have completed your application and compiled all required documents:

  • Contact Planning staff for a final review and to receive a link to upload your documents, as well as instructions on application fees and payment methods.
  • Once all comments have been received and required documents submitted, staff will prepare a report for Council.

5. Notice signage and community information meeting (if required)

  • You may need to put up a development notice sign.
  • The City may ask you to host a community information meeting before Council considers your application.

6. Application review and referrals

  • Your application may be sent to other City departments and external agencies for review. Staff may ask for additional information and studies to address any concerns.
  • Once all comments have been received and required documents submitted, staff will prepare a report for Council.

7. Council review and amendment bylaw adoption

Council will review your application. Depending on the proposal:

  • Staff will prepare a report for Council’s consideration, recommending either approval or denial. Applicants are encouraged to attend the meeting and may be asked questions.
  • The application will have to proceed through four readings of the bylaw by Council. The number of Council meetings required to consider all readings of the bylaw will depend on the particulars of the application.
  • A public hearing may be required, with notices provided as per the Local Government Act.
  • Conditions may need to be met prior to bylaw adoption.
  • If a phased development agreement is required, staff will work with you to draft the agreement following Schedule A of the Development Procedures Bylaw No. 3106 [PDF - 4 MB].

8. Final decision

The City will notify you of Council’s decision.