This is the exact embedded text of the captured official document.
Snapshot 16438e49f9f6 · verified 2026-06-08 ·
original document ·
archived snapshot ·
unofficial consolidation, the official version is held by the municipal clerk.
Community
Plan
Bylaw No. 1427
VERSION 5
2024
Interactive Document Style Guide
Cross-Reference
Indicates an active link to a cross-reference within the document
Will jump you to the appropriate page with the cross-reference
"Definition"
Indicates an active link to a definition for the term
Will jump you to the page in the Definitions section with the appropriate definition
"Glossary"
Indicates an active link to a definition and web link for more information
Will jump you to the page in the Glossary section with the appropriate glossary term
Existing Document /
Legislation
Indicates an active link to an existing document or Provincial Legislation with a web link to
the document / legislation
Will jump you to the page in the Existing Document section with a link to the website
Hyperlink
Indicates an active web link to the website
Will automatically open your browser and open the hyperlink
Interactive Buttons
Will take jump you to the Table of Contents Page
Will jump you back to the previously-viewed page
This is especially useful when clicking on a definition or glossary term. This button will take
you back to the page you wer previously reading
Jump to the next page
Best if used in full screen as it may jump you 2 pages
COUNCIL
Maria McFaddin
Darcy Bell
Brian Bogle
Sandy Bojechko
Shirley Falstead
Sue Heaton-Sherstobitoff
Cherryl MacLeod
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Kris Salikin
Rhonda Palmer
Cyan Lemoal
Sandi McCreight
Josh Drozda
Andrea Ryman
Tammy Verigin-Burk
Audrey Polovnikoff
Rose Stewart
Sally Bojechko
Sarah Meunier
Nelson Wight
Brian Bogle
Sue Heaton-Sherstobitoff
CITY STAFF
Chris Barlow
Bree Seabrook
Meeri Durand
Shannon Marshall
Sarah Martin
CONSULTANT TEAM
MVH Urban Planning & Design
Bluerock Planning
Selkirk Planning & Design
Amy Clarke Consulting
Rynic Solutions
Acknowledgments
- City of Castlegar
CONTENTS
1.0 Castlegar's Future 2033
1
1.1
Community Vision
1
1.2 Guiding Principles
2
1.3 Five Priorities for Castlegar 2033
3
1.4 How It All Fits Together
7
1.5 How the Plan was Created
8
1.6 Current Trends
9
2.0 Why & How of the Plan
10
2.1 Why Do We Have A Community Plan?
10
2.2 How to Use This Plan
12
2.3 Legislative Requirements
13
3.0 Castlegar Then & Now
15
3.1 Location & Context
15
3.2 Demographics and Growth
18
3.3 Future Housing Needs
20
4.0 How We Adapt and Protect
26
4.1 Climate Change Adaptation
26
4.2 Climate Change Adaptation Action
32
4.3 Agriculture & Food Security
38
4.4 Community-Wide Ecological Policies
40
5.0 How We Want to Use the Land
47
5.1 Introduction
47
5.2 Community Evolution Strategy
48
5.3 Land Use
50
5.4 Natural & Hazard Area (NHA)
54
5.5 Comprehensive Planning Area (CPA)
56
5.6 Downtown Node (DT)
58
5.7 Uptown Mixed-Use Node (UMU)
60
5.8 Columbia Ave Corridor (CAC)
62
5.9 Residential Neighbourhood (RN)
64
5.10 Downtown Neighbourhood (DTN)
66
5.11 Limited Services Residential (LSR)
68
5.12 Business-Industrial (BI)
70
5.13 Heavy Industrial & Resource (HIR)
72
5.14 Airport (AIR)
73
6.0 How We Connect the Community
75
6.1 Introduction
75
6.2 Arts & Culture
76
6.3 Community Amenities
78
6.4 Economic Development
84
6.5 Governance
88
6.6 Housing
90
6.7 Infrastructure & Servicing
98
6.8 Institutional
103
6.9 Social & Wellness
105
6.10 Transportation & Mobility
107
7.0 How We Protect & Enhance
116
7.1 What's a Development Permit Area?
116
7.2 Environmental & Hazard DPAs
118
7.3 Flood Hazard DPA
120
7.4 Steep Slope Hazard DPA
122
7.5 Riparian & Sensitive Ecosystem DPA
126
7.6 Form & Character DPAs
129
7.7 General Form & Character Guidelines
132
7.8 Downtown Mixed Use DPA
136
7.9 Regional Mixed Use DPA
138
7.10 Multi-Unit Residential DPA
140
7.11 Industrial DPA
142
8.0 How We Get It All Done
144
8.1 A Living Document
144
8.2 Implementation Priorities
144
8.3 Monitoring & Reporting Progress
149
8.4 Development Approval Information
150
9.0 Definitions & Glossary
151
9.1 Definitions
151
9.2 Glossary
158
9.3 Existing Plans, Policies, & Legislation
162
TABLES
Table 1:
How to Use this Plan
12
Table 2:
Growth Projections 2021-2051*
18
Table 3:
Housing Needs Assessment 2021-20411
21
Table 4:
In-Stream Housing Developments
22
Table 5:
Housing Solutions
25
Table 6:
Housing Diversity Implementation
94
Table 7:
Form & Character DPA Summary Table
130
Table 8:
Implementation Actions
145
FIGURES
Figure 1:
Hierarchy of Plans
11
Figure 2:
Population Age Groups (2021)*
18
Figure 3:
Population Growth 2021-2051
19
Figure 4: Housing Wheel
22
Figure 5:
Urban Heat Island Effect
34
Figure 6: Showing 2022 Housing Applications and Infill Potential
90
MAPS
Map 1: Wildfire Risk & Slope Stability
35
Map 2: Aquifer Vulnerability
37
Map 3: Ecological Network
41
Map 4: Community Evolution Strategy
48
Map 5: Land Use
51
Map 6: Community Amenities
78
Map 7: Economic Development & Tourism
85
Map 8: Housing & Infill Potential
91
Map 9: Infrastructure
99
Map 10: Active Transportation
108
Map 11: Motorized Transportation Network
113
Map 12: Flood Hazard DPA
121
Map 13: Steep Slope Hazard DPA
123
Map 14: Riparian & Sensitive Ecosystem DPA
127
Map 15: Form & Character DPA
131
1.0 Castlegar's Future 2033
1.1 COMMUNITY VISION
As a regional hub in the West Kootenay, Castlegar
is a welcoming and diverse community where
people of all ages and abilities can belong.
We are a community that respectfully honours
our past while moving forward with a vision
where everyone has a safe place to live, move,
work, connect and feel supported.
Surrounded by the mountains and rivers that
connect us, we embrace the outdoors and our
responsibility of looking after the land now and
for future generations.
1.0
CASTLEGAR'S
FUTURE 2033
1.1 COMMUNITY VISION
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
3
2
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
1.2 Guiding Principles
Seven guiding principles shape the Community Plan. The guiding principles were the framework
for the community engagement and each one has a corresponding objective that helps achieve
the community vision.
Mobility & Transportation
People can move freely and safely throughout the City using all modes of transportation.
Infrastructure
Basic infrastructure is a right for all City residents and is properly funded, maintained and managed
through the City's asset management system.
Community Well-being
People feel supported, connected and nurtured in the City.
Parks & Recreation Amenities
Parks and recreational opportunities that are accessible and nearby to where people live.
Employment
A strong local economy that provides for a diversity of employment opportunities within the City.
Housing
Housing for everyone that meets people's current and future needs within the City.
Climate Action & Ecological Protection
Action on climate change through reduction of the city's greenhouse gas emissions and protection of
key ecological areas and function.
1.3
Five Priorities for Castlegar 2033
To achieve the community vision and seven guiding principles the Plan has established five
priorities that are fulfilled through all aspects of the Community Plan. These five priorities are
translated into policies, development permit areas, and mapping throughout the Community Plan.
Together they will help the City reach its desired community vision.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
5
4
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Create A Dynamic
Columbia Avenue Corridor
Why? Columbia Avenue is the City's main
artery, its lifeblood for transportation and
economic development. But, it needs to feel
more vibrant socially and culturally with
improved transit service - built for humans
and not just cars.
How? The Community Plan identifies the
Columbia Avenue Corridor for more "Mixed
Use Buildings" and improved public spaces
for gathering. The Corridor also needs better
all-day/all-night bus service with a dedicated
bus route with more frequent service. New
Development Permit Area guidelines for sites
and buildings will also help shape the corridor
to be more accessible and people-friendly,
with sidewalks, bike lanes, and trees for sun
and weather protection.
Addresses the following Guiding Principles:
Diversify the City's
Neighbourhoods
Why? There is a strong need for more housing
diversity, affordability and choice. Most
existing neighbourhoods are mainly single-
detached homes, making it challenging for
young people to get into the market and older
people to stay. There are opportunities to add
more types of housing to ensure everyone has
a safe, affordable place to live.
How? The Community Plan supports adding
housing diversity in all neighbourhoods. For
example, duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes,
detached accessory units, and secondary
suites will be permitted on all residential lots
of sufficient size. Medium density housing
(5+ unit townhouses and apartments) will
be permitted in select locations, such as
neighbourhood nodes, and along transit
corridors.
Addresses the following Guiding Principles:
Focus Growth in Key Nodes
Why? Focusing growth in key nodes creates
vibrant areas in the City where people want to
gather, live, and shop. If development sprawls
these opportunities are missed. Growth in key
nodes also helps prioritize City investment into
these areas.
How? The Community Plan identifies three
scales of nodes: City Activity Nodes, District
Nodes, and Neighbourhood Nodes.
City Activity Nodes will encourage the highest
density of shops, businesses, and housing.
District Nodes will encourage mixed-use
development at medium densities.
Neighbourhood Nodes promote corner store
type developments in residential areas.
Addresses the following Guiding Principles:
Protect and Restore the
City's Ecosystems
Why? Healthy ecosystems provide many
benefits, including air, water, recreation areas,
and help with storm run-off. As the City has
urbanized there is less land for natural areas.
Ensuring these remaining natural areas have
healthy ecosystems will help the City function
better and ensure nearby areas to recreate for
citizens, while also providing buffers that help
mitigate risk from natural hazard areas.
How? The Community Plan identifies
'Natural and Hazard Areas' that will have
limited development to ensure protection of
ecosystems. Any development in these areas
will require additional studies.
Environmental Development Permit Areas
will add an additional layer of protection
to environmental and hazards lands within
the City.
Addresses the following Guiding Principles:
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
7
6
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Nurture an Active City
Why? Citizens of Castlegar love to bike and
recreate! However, there are still many missing
connections for those wishing to live an active
lifestyle. More pathways, sidewalks, bike lanes,
and active facilities (e.g. bike racks) are needed
throughout the City. This will help reduce the
City's carbon footprint and increase personal
health.
How? The Community Plan identifies
numerous pathway connections that should
be completed as development occurs or the
City has funds. Further, City Activity Nodes
(Downtown and Uptown) will focus on
becoming more friendly and accessible for
walking and biking through new Development
Permit Area guidelines for buildings and sites.
Addresses the following Guiding Principles:
1.4 How It All Fits Together
The Community Vision is supported by seven guiding principles with associated objectives. These
principles and objectives are fulfilled through five priorities that provide the framework for the
Community Plan and are realized through policies and mapping in the Plan.
COMMUNITY
VISION
7 GUIDING PRINCIPLES
5 PRIORITIES
IMPLEMENTATION
OF ACTION ITEMS
REPORTING &
MONITORING
OF SUCCESS
MAPS
POLICIES
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
9
8
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
1.5 How the Plan was Created
Engagement Summary &
Overview
Public engagement took place throughout the
development of the Community Plan and has
been integral in creating a solid foundation
for a document which reflects the needs of
Castlegar. During the initial phase of the Plan
development, the "Plan to Plan" phase, staff
and community partners worked together to
chart out a Communications and Engagement
Plan which would set the foundation for
engagement. During this phase, seven themes
were identified to help guide this process:
1.
Housing - Where We Live
2.
Business Land - Where We Work
3.
Amenities - Where We Play and Gather
4. Public Space & Services - How We Connect
5.
Transportation - How We Move
6. Climate Change - How We Adapt
7.
Revenue & Expenses - How We Balance
Our Budget
These themes, alongside a commitment
to connect with community members and
groups that normally don't participate in
community planning, has helped to create a
renewed vision for Castlegar's future which
reflects the needs of all residents.
Engagement events throughout spring and
fall 2023 emphasized the idea of "meeting
people where they are at" and took a variety
of forms. Coffee shop pop-ups, classroom
lesson plans, workshops at the seniors
centre, and conversations at the food bank
were effective ways to understand different
community perspectives.
An Advisory Committee helped guide
the engagement process and facilitated
connections with different segments of the
community, resulting in over 650 face-to-
face connections. Creative tools such as
a "Community Workbook" were also key
to engaging over 600 residents to answer
questions within each theme.
Feedback gathered from the Community
Workbooks, events, workshops and
conversations was distilled down into seven
key themes.
We heard that residents want to:
x
Increase housing choice and diversity;
x
Enhance transit and active
transportation options;
x
Create opportunities for connection
and gathering;
x
Celebrate our cultural diversity
and heritage;
x
Protect natural assets and build on our
outdoor nature;
x
Show we care through expanded social
supports and programming; and
x
Ensure core services are maintained to a
high standard.
These themes became the foundation for
the "Guiding Principles" and "Five Priorities."
Engagement events that took place in the
fall of 2023 gauged citizens on their support
for the principles and priorities. Community
support for these priorities confirmed policy
directions of the "Community Plan."
1.6 Current Trends
200%
since 2001
Housing is getting expensive!
Average price of a home is
We love our cars and trucks
Castlegar's greatest contribution to carbon pollution
comes from the way we move.
of trips are less than 15 minutes
You don't go far
49%
Providing most of a person's daily needs within a short
walk can help cut emissions by approximately 25%.
of commutes are as a driver
(85.4%) or passenger (5.1%)
90.5%
MOBILITY
Schools are filling up
Primary schools are above capacity and
Castlegar is considered a "childcare desert."
19%
less childcare coverage for children
aged 0-12 than the BC average
CHILDREN
HOUSING
We maintain about
49
hectares
of parkland
of parkland
per resident
58 m2
PARKS
The City is becoming more diverse
8.5%
of residents
are immigrants
PEOPLE
of our export value
is in forestry
50%
We're powered by trees
ECONOMY
It's getting hotter & more extreme!
By 2050, the average
annual temperature
could rise
0.8-3.1°C
13 days/year to
27-44 days/year
By 2050, the number of
days above 30°C could
increase from
CLIMATE
Housing variety keeps taxes low
Single-detached homes
collect about
50%
tax/hectare than compact development
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
11
10
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
2.0 Why & How of the Plan
2.1
Why Do We Have A Community Plan?
Without a plan it's difficult to make good
decisions about the future. A Community Plan
is simply a plan to guide future decisions of
the City. Legally, the City is required to have
an Official Community Plan as outlined in the
"Local Government Act" (LGA). However, in
an effort to make the plan language easier to
read and understand, it is simply referred to as
the Community Plan.
The Community Plan is the top long-term
planning document for the City of Castlegar
and is adopted through a Bylaw process,
making it legally binding (see Figure 1:
Hierarchy of Plans).
The Community Plan not only guides decisions
of City Council and administration, but also
determines where developments on private
land (e.g. housing and businesses) may be
located. The Community Plan could be viewed
as a handshake or agreement between
the government of Castlegar (Council and
Administration) and the people on how and
where the City will grow, develop, invest and
spend tax dollars. This plan focuses on a ten-
year horizon, looking to implement solutions
that address Castlegar's current issues.
Local Government Act
LGA
Community Charter
CC
Official
Community Plan
OCP
5 - Year
Strategic Plan
SP
5 - Year
Financial Plan
FP
Downtown
Area Plan
Zoning
Bylaw
Subdivision &
Development
Servicing Bylaw
Development
Cost Charge
Bylaw
Infrastructure
Strategy
Communications
Plan
Regional
Economic
Development
West Kootenay
100% Renewable
Energy Plan
Community
Wildfire
Protection Plan
Housing
Strategy
Housing Needs
Assessment
Social & Economic
Wellbeing
Assessment
Airport Master
Plan
Pedestrian &
Cycling Master
Plan
Recreation
Master Plan
Figure 1: Hierarchy of Plans
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
13
12
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
2.3 Legislative Requirements
The "Local Government Act" (LGA) outlines
the legal requirements of the contents and
process of an Official Community Plan (OCP).
In 2023, there were substantial changes to the
LGA to enable a greater diversity of housing
across British Columbia. The changes included
requiring that up to three dwelling units be
permitted on any residential parcel and four
units on parcels greater than 280m2.
In addition to enabling more diverse housing
types, the legislative changes will require the
City to revisit it's Housing Needs Assessment
and ensure this Community Plan and Zoning is
aligned to meet those needs every five years.
While the LGA must be referenced for exact
wording, a general summary is provided
below for convenience purposes only.
An OCP must include policies, statements, and
map designations respecting:
x
The approximate location, amount, type
and density of residential development
required to meet anticipated housing
needs over a period of at least 20 years;
x
The approximate location, amount
and type of present and proposed
commercial, industrial, institutional,
agricultural, recreational and public utility
land uses;
x
The approximate location and area of
sand and gravel deposits that are suitable
for future sand and gravel extraction;
x
Restrictions on the use of land that is
subject to hazardous conditions or that is
environmentally sensitive to development;
x
The approximate location and phasing of
any major road, sewer and water systems;
x
The approximate location and type of
present and proposed public facilities,
including schools, parks and waste
treatment and disposal sites;
x
Housing policies of the local government
respecting affordable housing, rental
housing and special needs housing; and
x
Targets and policies for the reduction of
greenhouse gas emissions.
2.2 How to Use This Plan
The Community Plan is a comprehensive document with many different parts. While the whole
Plan can be read at one time, often a user is looking for a particular section or topic area. The
following is a quick summary to help you read this Community Plan.
Table 1: How to Use this Plan
What you want to know
Section
Contents
I want to understand the vision,
priorities, and big picture.
1 & 2
1.0 Castlegar's Future 2033
2.0 Why & How of the Plan
I love history and statistics about
Castlegar.
3
3.0 Castlegar Then & Now
I want to learn about how climate
change could impact the City.
4
4.0 How We Adapt and Protect
I want to know where different
residential, business, and
environmental lands are in the City.
5
5.0 How We Want to Use the
Land
I want to know about physical and
social connections in the City.
6
6.0 How We Connect the
Community
I want to know about protections
from hazard areas, and how we're
maintaining the community character
of our neighbourhoods.
7
7.0 How We Protect & Enhance
I want to a list of actions that will be
done to reach the Plan's vision.
8
8.0 How We Get It All Done
I want to find definitions and a list of
acronyms.
9
9.1 Definitions
9.2 Glossary
I want extra reading about the City's
history, demographics and more maps. Appendices
10.0 Appendices
15
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
CASTLEGAR
Nelson
Regional District of
Central Kootenay
Area J
Regional District of
Central Kootenay
Area E
Regional District of
Central Kootenay
Area I
Regional District of
Central Kootenay
Area H
Regional District of
Central Kootenay
Area G
Regional District of
Central Kootenay
Area J
Regional District of
Kootenay Boundary
Regional District of
Kootenay Boundary
Trail
Rossland
Monashee
Range
Selkirk
Range
Selkirk
Range
Slocan
New Denver
Nakusp
Ar
ro
w
Lak
es
Slocan Lake
Koote
nay Lake
United States
Col
umbi
a
R
i
v
e
r
K
o
o
te
n
ay
Ri
v
e
r
Columbia
River
North
3
3
6
6
6
3B
3B
3A
22
22
22A
3.0 Castlegar Then & Now
3.1
Location & Context
The City of Castlegar is located at the
confluence of the Columbia and Kootenay
Rivers between the Monashee and Selkirk
Mountain Ranges in Southeastern British
Columbia. The municipality manages 2.3
square kilometers of land that includes
two hydro dams (Hugh L. Keenleyside and
Brilliant Dam), a large mill (Mercer-Celgar), an
airport (West Kootenay Regional Airport) and
approximately 350 businesses. Home to 8,338
people (Census Canada, 2021), the community
serves as a larger regional hub for surrounding
communities. The City is surrounded by
Electoral Areas I and J of the Regional District
of Central Kootenay (RDCK).
The area has long been used seasonally
and permanently by Indigenous peoples of
the region. Castlegar has always been an
important home for the Sinixt people who
travelled between the area around what is
now Revelstoke and Kettle Falls, Washington,
USA. Sinixt pit houses are still found in the
Castlegar area at various locations along the
banks of the Columbia River. The Syilx and
Ktunaxa peoples also consider Castlegar as a
part of their traditional territory.
The area across the Columbia and Kootenay
Rivers known as Brilliant was originally a
former Sinixt village site referred to as kp'ilt'els.
Settler history started in West Waterloo (now
the Kinnaird area of Castlegar) as a gold
prospecting settlement that was active until
the end of the 20th Century. The Canadian
Pacific Railway (CPR) laid out a grid network of
streets and blocks. The CPR Plan established
Castlegar's current downtown and north
residential area in 1897. The area was planned
around the 1902 construction of the CPR
bridge over the Columbia River, connecting
present-day Raspberry to Castlegar.
- https-::www.kootenayrockies.com:wp-
content:uploads:2020:01:1100_crp-4057.jpg
- https-::historicbridges.
org:britishcolumbia:castlegarrobsonrailway:historical_large.jpg
17
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Columbia River
Columbia River
Uptown
(Highway Interchange)
Downtown
Merry Creek
Recreation Site
Merry
Creek
Millennium
Park
Robson
Brilliant
Dam
Minto Road
Industrial Area
Hugh L.
Keenleyside
Dam
Mercer-
Celgar
Mill
CPR Bridge
Raspberry
Brilliant
West Kootenay
Regional Airport
Kinnaird
Selkirk
College
Ootischenia
Southridge /
Grandview
Blueberry
K
oo
te
na
y R
ive
r
To Salmo
To Trail / USA
To Nelson
North
3A
3
22
3
The Village (est. 1946), and Town (est. 1966)
grew slowly until it amalgamated with
Kinnaird into a City on January 1st, 1974.
Edward Mahon established the settlement
of "Castlegar," which he named after his
ancestral family residence in County Galway
in Ireland.
There is a long Doukhobor history in the
area, focusing particularly across the River at
Brilliant, BC, with several influential Doukhobor
families in Castlegar throughout its history.
In 2004, the City's boundary was extended
south to encompass the Blueberry area. A
regional airport was constructed in 1950
on the east side of the Columbia River (near
Ootischenia), which was then replaced with
the current terminal in 1971. Ownership of the
airport was transferred from Transport Canada
to the City in 1997, and officially became
known as the West Kootenay Regional Airport
in 2009. The City is serviced by Highways 3,
3A and 22 which meet around the uptown
commercial area. The United States border
is a short 45-minute drive south along
Highway 22.
Castlegar's population has grown slowly over
the last 20 years, growing at approximately
0.5% over that time. If current trends continue
Castlegar can expect to have approximately
8,850 residents by 2033 (~510 more residents
than present). If Castlegar's growth rate
moves to a high traditional growth rate of 1%,
Castlegar could expect approximately 9,380
residents by 2033 (~1,040 more residents than
present).
- https-::s3.amazonaws.com:gs-waymarking-
images:3f85e517-45de-481d-bb17-cb277eed31a4.jpg
- https-::www.bpmcdn.com:f:files:castlegar:import:2017-
05:web1_170520-CAN-M-drugstore.jpg
- https-::www.bpmcdn.
com:f:files:castlegar:import:2020-04:21231775_web1_
CastlegarPostcard-Sawmill.jpg;w=787.jpeg - http-::www.destinationcastlegar.com:wp-content:uploads
:2018:08:brilliant2.gif
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
19
18
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
3.2 Demographics and Growth
Updated Demographics
Castlegar is showing continued population
growth despite the COVID-19 pandemic
and challenges of housing supply. The City's
population is typical of most Canadian cities
with an aging population (See Figure 2).
Figure 2: Population Age Groups (2021)*
*Source: Statistics Canada, 2021 Census of Population.
The median age of residents in 2006 was 44
and in 2021 it was 45.6. This aligns with the
growing share of people over the age of 65,
which rose from 17% in 2006 to 25% in 2021.
However, an aging population is not the whole
story as the youngest demographic (0-9 years)
has also been showing growth since 2011. The
25-39 year-old demographic also grew since
2011, indicating young adults may be returning
home or making Castlegar home after taking
time for educational pursuits or to gain job
experience in larger centres before settling
down in Castlegar.
Growth Projections
The City's growth rate has historically been
around 0.5% per year, however, trends indicate
the City could see a higher growth rate in
the future. This is due to migration out of the
lower mainland and elsewhere in Canada
where high housing prices are pushing people
into smaller, more relatively affordable, urban
centres such as Castlegar. Growth rates of
0.75% and 1.0% may be possible and thus are
shown in Table 2 and Figure 3 below. This
growth rate range could result in a population
between 9,670 and 11,174 by the year 2051.
Given the City's physical constraints (rivers and
steep slopes) future growth will be dependent
on growing up (i.e. more density) and/or
identifying new growth areas.
Table 2: Growth
Projections 2021-2051*
Growth Rate
Year
Historical
Population
0.50%
0.75%
1.00%
2001
7,002
2006
7,259
2011
7,816
2016
8,039
2021
8,338
8,338
8,338
8,338
2026
8,546
8,651
8,755
2031
8,760
8,975
9,193
2033
8,848
9,110
9,376
2036
8,979
9,312
9,652
2041
9,204
9,661
10,135
2046
9,434
10,023
10,642
2051
9,670
10,399
11,174
Figure 3: Population Growth 2021-2051
In 20 years, Castlegar's
population may exceed
10,000
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
21
20
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
3.3 Future Housing Needs
Housing is a core human need and one of the
seven guiding principles for this Plan.
Housing
Housing for everyone that meets people's
current and future needs within the City.
As shown in the sculpture art below called
"Housing Crisis" by Rabi'a, housing can come
in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. We are
all different and have different housing needs.
However, historically, Castlegar has built a
limited range of housing types - mainly single-
detached homes with 3 or 4 bedrooms. This
oversupply of one type of home has resulted
in a need for more variety of homes. The
Housing Needs Assessment explains in detail
the City's current needs and is addressed in
this Plan.
Housing Needs Assessment
The "Local Government Act" (LGA) requires
an analysis of the City's housing needs for the
next 20 years; however much of the existing
data is taken from the 2021 Federal Census.
Thus, analysis will also look at five and ten-
year timeframes beginning in 2021 and going
to 2041. This aligns with the City's recently
adopted Housing Needs Assessment prepared
by Resilience Planning. The following housing
needs analysis borrows from that Assessment
and other Census Canada and City data.
Using a moderate growth rate of 0.75%, Table
2: Growth Projections 2021-2051* shows a
potential City population of over 10,000 by the
year 2046. This is an additional 1300 people
who all need a home. Let's look at how the
City will provide housing for everyone as the
population grows to 10,000.
Housing Supply & Demand
The Housing Needs Assessment clearly
outlines the City's demand for smaller housing
units (e.g. studio, 1- and 2-bedroom units).
There is a significant need for 0, 1 and 2
bedroom housing units as demographics in
the City change (See Table 3). The Assessment
states a need in 2026 for 947 studio and 1
bedroom units and 729 two bedroom units,
which results in a total need 1,676 units.
Since there's an over-supply of 3 and 4+
bedroom housing units, if the total over-
supply is converted and subtracted from the
equation then the net need is only 464 units.
It should be noted that conversions are often
challenging to complete, so are expected to
account for only a small percentage of total
housing units supplied. Strategies for achieving
the housing needs targets can be found in
Sections 5.0 How We Want to Use the Land
and 6.6 Housing.
Table 3: Housing Needs Assessment 2021-2041
1
2021
5 years (2026)
10 years (2033)
20 years (2041)
Housing Types
# of
Bedrooms
Existing
Supply
Demand
Difference
Demand
Difference
Demand
Difference
Studio
(0-1)
260
1,207
947
1,239
979
1316
1056
ADUs / Secondary Suites
Apartments / Conversions
2
810
1,539
729
1,581
771
1679
869
Small-med single-
detached / 2-4 unit
dwellings / apartments /
mixed-use / Conversions
3
1,190
547
(643)
Over-
supply
562
(628)
Over-
supply
596
(594)
Over-
supply
Single-detached units
/ triplexes / duplexes /
larger apartments
4+
1,285
716
(569)
Over-
supply
735
(550)
Over-
supply
781
(504)
Over-
supply
Single-detached units
/ triplexes / duplexes /
larger apartments
Total
3,545
4,009
---
4,117
---
4,372
---
In 20 years, Castlegar will
require 1,925 more studio
& 2-bedroom housing units
1
+1056
Studio (0 & 1)
Bedroom Units
+869
2-bedroom
Units
+
1Source: 2023 Castlegar Housing Needs Assessment
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
23
22
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Current Housing
Applications
To fully understand the future housing needs
for the City, the current in-stream housing
applications should be calculated. Table 4:
In-Stream Housing Developments details
the in-stream housing applications at the City
and the total units that may be provided, if the
projects were to be completed as planned.
Data from the City's application process
suggests there are approximately 82 units
within in-stream applications and housing
developments that could reduce the total
need further. There are also 21 single-
detached residential lots in-stream.
Table 4: In-Stream
Housing Developments
Market
Type
Housing
Type
Status
Total
units
Market
Housing
Multi-unit
housing
In-stream
applications
82
Market
Housing
Single-
detached
lots
In-stream
applications
21
Grand Total
103
Assuming the multi-unit homes are provided
in the form of studio and 2-bedroom units,
this reduces the 20 year demand to 1,843. The
single-detached units add to the over-supply
of 3 and 4 bedroom units.
How will the City meet its
housing needs?
Housing is a complicated problem and there
will not be a single solution. As shown in
Figure 4: Housing Wheel, from the City's
Housing Strategy, there is a range of housing
types, from safety net to supported housing
to market housing. This Plan emphasizes
a series of solutions to address the
City's diverse housing needs. This next
section of the Plan and Table 5: Housing
Solutions summarize how the City
is tackling this critical issue. Further,
these housing solutions are aligned
with the Community Evolution Strategy,
which focuses 75% of new housing
within existing areas of the City, ensuring
efficient use of resources and putting
people where there is access to services,
amenities and transportation.
S
AF
ET
Y
N
ET
S
U
PP
O
RT
ED
H
O
US
IN
G
M
AR
KE
T
H
O
US
IN
G
Emergency
Shelter
Transitional
Housing
Supportive
Housing
Subsidized
Housing
Rental
Housing
Ownership
Housing
y
p
includes o
services to
move tow
and self su
Subsidiz
Subsidize
by third-p
housing p
cooperat
ommodation,
der 30 days
mmediate
r.
e built
ely designed
g-term rental
rket:
Figure 4: Housing Wheel
Housing Solutions
This Plan creates opportunities for increased housing choice and diversity. Six Housing Solutions,
as shown below, guide the Plan and detail how 75% of housing can be built within existing
neighbourhoods to meet the 20-year housing needs of the City. For more, See Section 5.0
and 6.6.
SOLUTION 1: Create "Accessory Dwelling Unit
(ADU)" on 15% of single-detached lots (that are
not converted to other housing).
Basement Suite
Single-Detached Dwelling
Laneway Suite
Total Anticipated Units: 363
Type of Units: Studio
SOLUTION 2: Conversion of 5% of the over-
supply of single-detached dwellings to
attached 2 or 3 unit buildings.
Basement Suite
Duplex B
Duplex A
Total Anticipated Units: 257
Types of Units: Studio & 2-bedroom units,
some 3-bedroom units
SOLUTION 3: Develop 50% of vacant lots with
attached housing at approximately 40 units
per hectare (e.g. townhouses).
Total Anticipated Units: 956
Total Vacant Lots (by area): 48 hectares
SOLUTION 4: Creation of housing in mixed-
use buildings within identified mixed-use
areas (Downtown, Uptown & Columbia
Ave Corridor).
Total Anticipated Units: 150
Type of Units: Apartments
SOLUTION 5: Redevelopment of existing
buildings into multi-unit dwellings (e.g. tear
down and re-build).
Total Anticipated Units: 444
Types of Units: Studio & 2-bedroom units,
some 3-bedroom units
SOLUTION 6: Develop greenfield lands at a
moderate density of 20 units per hectare with
housing variety (e.g. 50% multi-unit housing).
Total Anticipated Units: 650 (32.5 ha of land)
Types of Units: Studio, 2-, 3-, &
4-bedroom units
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
25
24
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Five out of the six housing solutions focus on
infill and redevelopment. These five solutions
support 75% of the City's new housing being
built within existing neighbourhoods as
infill and redevelopment. The remaining
25% of homes are projected to be built
as greenfield development (see Table 5:
Housing Solutions).
Infill and redevelopment has been shown to
be a more cost-effective way to develop, and
the City's greenfield areas pose challenges
related to steep slopes, costly infrastructure
and ecological sensitivity. By absorbing growth
within existing neighbourhoods, infill provides
for the efficient use of infrastructure and
services, and reduces growth pressure on
undeveloped areas and open spaces. Castlegar
has many vacant and underutilized lots that
can house future residents and save the City
from too much outward expansion.
Table 5: Housing Solutions below
summarizes the six housing solutions that
are integrated throughout this Plan in various
policies and implementation action items.
The six solutions will collectively provide for
the housing needs of the City of Castlegar for
the next 20 years. These projections indicate
a surplus of 60 studio units, 515 - 2-bedroom
units, 423 - 3+ bedroom units and a total
housing surplus of 998 units based on the
Housing Needs Assessment. While a surplus is
shown, there are many unknown factors and
the City should be diligent in supporting these
solutions to ensure enough housing is being
built. Redevelopment is dependent on many
factors, including the desires of land owners,
value and condition of existing homes, level of
service available, and market demand.
Further, the housing solutions are based on
assumptions of what percentage of new
housing will be created in various forms and
locations in the City. Since there is limited
historical data available from the City on these
solutions, data and knowledge from other
municipalities who have implemented these
solutions was used as a guide.
However, infill and redevelopment strategies
can be a challenge due to the need for
many different sites and smaller developers
building incrementally. The City must meet
these challenges by supporting the necessary
infrastructure and amenities to accommodate
new housing within existing neighbourhoods.
If housing is not accommodated within
existing neighbourhoods as prescribed here,
then additional greenfield land, and potential
boundary expansion, which is likely to be
significantly more costly for the City and its
residents, will be required to accommodate
the City's housing needs.
Table 5: Housing Solutions
Housing Solutions
(20 year period - 2041)
Studio
2
bed
3+
bed
Total
Units
1. Create ADUs on 15% of single-detached lots
(that are not converted to multi-unit residential)
363
--
--
363
2. Conversions of 5% of the over-supply of single-detached dwellings
to a 2 or 3 unit dwelling
77
129
51
257
3. Develop 50% of vacant lots with attached housing @40 units per
hectare density
261
479
131
870
4. Creation of housing in mixed-use buildings within identified mixed-
use areas (Downtown, Uptown, Columbia Ave Corridor)
53
75
23
150
5. Redevelopment of existing buildings into multi-unit dwellings (e.g.
tear down and rebuild)
133
289
22
444
6. Develop Vacant Greenfield Lands Within the City (32.5 ha@ 20 Units
Per Hectare)
163
325
163
650
TOTAL UNITS ANTICIPATED
1049
1296
389
2734
TOTAL UNITS NEEDED
1056
869
0
1,925
IN-STREAM APPLICATIONS
41
41
21
103
NET DIFFERENCE
+34
+468
+410
+912
These five solutions support
75% of the City's new housing
being built within existing
neighbourhoods.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
27
26
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
2050 Extreme Range
1976-2005 Mean
784.0mm
2050 Mean
819.0 mm
658.0 ➞ 990.0mm
ANNUAL PRECIPITATION
2005-2050 Trend
mm
+35
Up
Heavy Precipitation Days
(10mm)
2005-2050 Trend
days
+2.7
Up
Heavy Precipitation Days
(20mm)
2005-2050 Trend
days
+0.5
Up
Wet Days
2005-2050 Trend
days
+0.3
Up
Dry Days
2005-2050 Trend
days
-0.2
Down
Maximum 1-Day
Precipitation
2005-2050 Trend
mm
+2
Up
Maximum 5-Day
Precipitation
2005-2050 Trend
mm
+3
Up
2050 Extreme Range
1976-2005 Mean
6.3°C
2050 Mean
8.2 °C
7.1 ➞ 9.4°C
ANNUAL MEAN TEMPERATURE
2005-2050 Trend
°C
+1.9
Up
4.0 How We Adapt
and Protect
4.1 Climate Change Adaptation
1
This Introduction is a summary of information found at: https://climateatlas.ca/climate-change-basics
Weather records show that every year since
1998 has been warmer than the 20th Century
average.1 This recent average warming trend is
a quick change from typical temperatures for
the past 10,000 years. The planet's climate is
influenced by several natural factors, including
the Earth's tilt, orbit around the sun, volcanic
eruptions, and changing ocean currents.
However, none of those factors explain the
recent warming of the earth. Beyond the
scientific numbers, Castlegar residents have
experienced generally warmer winters,
hotter, longer summers, and more extreme
weather events in the last two decades when
compared to previous years.
Scientific consensus agrees that only the
increase in global greenhouse gases, primarily
in the form of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the
atmosphere can explain the Earth's recent
warming trend. The geologists, astrophysicists,
oceanographers, and atmospheric physicians
overwhelmingly agree that human beings are
the cause of climate change.
This means that Castlegar will need to plan for
climate change, understand what changes the
future is expected to bring, and what action to
take to be able to adapt to an uncertain future.
That future is previewed next.
Annual Projected Changes
Climate Change Projections (2022-2050)
What to expect by 2050...
The annual average temperature is expected
to be approximately 2ºC warmer than the
mean (1976-2005). The average temperature
is a key indicator for potential impacts on all
aspects of daily life.
Overall Castlegar can expect warmer days,
increased precipitation in three of the four
seasons, longer, hotter summers with longer
heat waves, and shorter, warmer winters.
The community will need to anticipate more
heat-related health issues and increased
threat of forest fires as summer precipitation
is reduced. Increasing the tree canopy can help
reduce the urban heat island effect, but will
have to be balanced with the increased need
for wildfire protection. Warmer days will also
impact forest health, with increased insect
infestations and changing ecological ranges
for certain species.
Annual precipitation is expected to rise slightly
above the mean. However the distribution
from the seasons will bring dryer summers,
and wetter fall, winter, and spring seasons.
More rain, combined with higher snowpack
will present flood adaptation challenges in
the future. This is further highlighted by above
average heavy precipitation and maximum
1-day and 3-day precipitation.
Benefits of future climate change may include
a longer growing season, the potential to
increase local food security, and creating
economic development opportunities.
Warmer winters will reduce overall energy
use for heating, which is a major contributor
to GHG emissions. Benefits of reduced winter
energy requirements should be tempered by
increased energy requirements in the summer
to provide cooling, which is typically less
efficient than heating.
Source: "Climate Atlas of Canada"
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
29
28
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
2050 Extreme Range
1976-2005 Mean
5.9°C
2050 Mean
8.0 °C
6.0 ➞ 10.0°C
SPRING MEAN TEMPERATURE
2005-2050 Trend
°C
+2.1
Up
2050 Extreme Range
1976-2005 Mean
182.0mm
2050 Mean
194.0 mm
126.0 ➞ 273.0mm
SPRING PRECIPITATION
2005-2050 Trend
mm
+12
Up
Heavy Precipitation Days
(10mm)
2005-2050 Trend
days
+2.7
Up
Maximum 1-Day
Precipitation
2005-2050 Trend
mm
+2
Up
2050 Extreme Range
1976-2005 Mean
May 5
2050 Mean
Apr 13
Mar 15 ➞ May 9
DATE OF LAST SPRING FROST
2005-2050 Trend
date
-22d
Down
2050 Extreme Range
1976-2005 Mean
16.4°C
2050 Mean
18.6 °C
17.0 ➞ 20.2°C
SUMMER MEAN TEMPERATURE
2005-2050 Trend
°C
+2.2
Up
2050 Extreme Range
1976-2005 Mean
13.2days
2050 Mean
27.0 days
11.0 ➞ 44.0days
VERY HOT DAYS (+30°C)
2005-2050 Trend
days
+13.8
Up
Summer Precipitation
2005-2050 Trend
mm
-3
Down
No. Of Heat Waves
2005-2050 Trend
total
+1.7
Up
Average Length of Heat
Waves
2005-2050 Trend
days
+1.9
Up
Longest spell of +30°C
Days
2005-2050 Trend
days
+4.5
Up
Cooling Degree Days
2005-2050 Trend
degree days
+108.5
Up
Growing Degree Days
(15°C)
2005-2050 Trend
degree days
+183.3
Up
Spring
Climate Change Projections (2022-2050)
What to expect by 2050...
Spring is expected to be an average of
2ºC warmer. While rainfall amounts are
expected to remain relatively the same, heavy
precipitation events are expected to increase
by almost 3 days per year. A low precipitation
spring would be 50mm less than normal, and
a wet spring would be almost 100mm above
normal. This with higher winter precipitation
could bring more heavy rainfall events and
increased flooding.
The earlier spring may also bring benefits.
Food production could be increased as
the growing season will be longer by
approximately 30 days per year. Biking season
will begin earlier.
Potential Impacts
Warmer Temperatures
Earlier Start to Spring
Heavy Rainfall Events
Heavy Rain + Snowpack Melt
Events
Increased Flooding
Potential Benefits
Earlier Start to Growing Season
Earlier Start to Spring Outdoor
Recreation Season
Source: "Climate Atlas of Canada"
Summer
Climate Change Projections (2022-2050)
What to expect by 2050...
Summers are expected to be hotter. While
precipitation will stay relatively the same,
the number of days above 30ºC will double.
Heat waves will be more frequent and longer.
Water demand will be higher.
Human and habitat impacts include more
heat-related health issues such as heat
stroke and air quality advisories, demand for
air conditioning, more forest fire events, and
impacts on local wildlife and vegetation.
Potential Impacts
Hotter Temperatures
More Hot (+30ºC) Days
More Frequent and Longer-Lasting
Heat Waves
More Heat-Related Health Issues
Reduced Time Outdoors Due to
Heat
Increased Use Energy for Air
Conditioning
Drier Forests & Increased Fires,
Damage to Property & Evacuations
More Air Quality Advisories
Higher-Intensity Thunderstorms
Higher Water Temperatures &
Aquatic Habitat Degradation
Higher Water Demand for Crops
Source: "Climate Atlas of Canada"
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
31
30
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
2050 Extreme Range
1976-2005 Mean
6.1°C
2050 Mean
7.8 °C
6.4 ➞ 9.3°C
FALL MEAN TEMPERATURE
2005-2050 Trend
°C
+1.7
Up
2050 Extreme Range
1976-2005 Mean
188.0mm
2050 Mean
195.0 mm
117.0 ➞ 280.0mm
FALL PRECIPITATION
2005-2050 Trend
mm
+7
Up
2050 Extreme Range
1976-2005 Mean
Oct 1
2050 Mean
Oct 14
Sep 24 ➞ Nov 3
DATE OF FIRST FALL FROST
2005-2050 Trend
date
13d
Up
Heavy Precipitation Days
(10mm)
2005-2050 Trend
days
+2.7
Up
Maximum 1-Day
Precipitation
2005-2050 Trend
mm
+2
Up
2050 Extreme Range
1976-2005 Mean
-3.6°C
2050 Mean
-1.7 °C
-4.1 ➞ 0.4°C
WINTER MEAN TEMPERATURE
2005-2050 Trend
°C
+1.9
Up
2050 Extreme Range
1976-2005 Mean
259.0mm
2050 Mean
277.0 mm
185.0 ➞ 369.0mm
WINTER PRECIPITATION
2005-2050 Trend
mm
+18
Up
2050 Extreme Range
1976-2005 Mean
51.6days
2050 Mean
34.0 days
15.9 ➞ 54.2days
ICING DAYS (0°C OR LESS ALL DAY)
2005-2050 Trend
days
-17.6
Down
Heating Degree Days
2005-2050 Trend
degree days
-612
Down
Mild Winter Days (-5°C)
2005-2050 Trend
days
-29.3
Down
Fall
Climate Change Projections (2022-2050)
What to expect by 2050...
Fall is expected to be an average of 1.7ºC
warmer. While rainfall amounts are expected
to remain relatively the same, heavy
precipitation events are expected to increase
by almost 3 days per year. A low precipitation
fall would be 71mm less than normal, and a
wet fall would be 98mm above normal. This,
with hotter and more frequent expected
forest fires affecting soil permeability, and
early winter snowpack could bring more
heavy rainfall events and increased flooding.
A later fall may also bring benefits. Food
production could be increased as the growing
season will be longer by approximately 30
days per year. Shoulder season activities like
biking, hiking, etc. will last longer.
Potential Impacts
Warmer Temperatures
Later Start to Fall
Heavy Rainfall Events
Increased Flooding
Potential Benefits
Later End to Growing Season
Later End to Fall Outdoor
Recreation Season
Source: "Climate Atlas of Canada"
Winter
Climate Change Projections (2022-2050)
What to expect by 2050...
Winter is expected to be an average of 2ºC
warmer. Precipitation is expected to be higher in
winter, though fewer icing days may bring more
rain and less snow. A dry winter would bring
74mm below normal, and a wet winter would
bring 110mm above normal. Wetter, heavier
snowfalls will bring potential snow-loading on
roofs. Winter recreation-based businesses will
be impacted by a shorter season.
The warmer winter may bring benefits such as
lower energy use for heating, and reduced snow
removal budgets.
Potential Impacts
Warmer Temperatures
More Heavy Snowfall Events
Potential Snow-Loading Impacts
Increased Snow Removal
Fewer Days Below 0ºC
Shortened Winter Outdoor
Recreation Season
Heavy Rain + Snowpack Melt
Events
Increased Flooding
Potential Benefits
Lower Energy Use for Heating
More Rain = Reduced Snow
Removal Budget
Source: "Climate Atlas of Canada"
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
33
32
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
4.2 Climate Change Adaptation Action
Greenhouse Gas (GHG)
Reduction
The West Kootenay 100% Renewable Energy
Plan identified targets for reducing community
greenhouse gases (GHGs) in Castlegar. As a
signatory to the Climate Action Charter in
2007, Castlegar pledged its commitment to
be carbon neutral in operations by 2012. Since
that time, the City has completed further
steps to reduce its GHG use. However, more
needs to be done. The key step to achieving
the goal of GHG reduction is to implement
the Big Moves in the 100% Renewable Energy
Plan. Those big moves are captured through
specific policies and objectives in this section.
Objective 1: Reduce GHG emissions
throughout the community.
4.2.1.
Implement the Big Moves identified in
the West Kootenay 100% Renewable
Energy Plan to be Net Zero by 2050.
4.2.2.
Reduce GHG Emissions by 2030 by
encouraging the following Big Moves
from the West Kootenay 100%
Renewable Energy Plan:
a) Replacement of conventional
passenger vehicles with electric
vehicles (EVs);
b) Reduction of vehicle use by avoiding
the need or shifting kms travelled to
active transportation;
c)
Retrofitting of buildings to achieve a
reduction in energy use;
d) Adoption of zero or low-carbon
heating systems; and
e) Diversion of organics from
the landfill.
4.2.3.
Develop a monitoring and reporting
system to track the community's
progress towards achieving the City's
GHG Emissions Reduction Targets.
Objective 2: Resilience through
integrated land uses.
4.2.4.
Build climate resiliency through
integrating land use, transportation
and infrastructure including:
a) Protecting Environmental Lands and
critical habitat;
b) Increasing the urban tree canopy;
c)
Focus on creating more walkable
neighbourhoods with integrated
land uses where everyone
has access to key services in
each neighbourhood;
d) Provide transportation options that
allow the community to choose
active transportation as a viable and
enjoyable transportation option; and
e) Reduce energy consumption by
constructing energy-efficient
buildings and using infill and
mixed-use to add amenities to
existing neighbourhoods.
Objective 3: Electrify passenger vehicles.
GOAL: Replace 1430 conventional
vehicles with EVs
4.2.5.
Develop an EV charging strategy
(current/future demand for L2 and
DCFC, garage orphans, etc.). Explore
partnering on regional approach.
4.2.6.
Establish green procurement
policy for local government fleet
including lifecycle costs and social
costs of carbon. Focus on trucks
moving forward.
4.2.7.
Support and encourage adequate
electrical servicing throughout
neighbourhoods to support the
expansion of EV charging throughout
the community and at home.
Objective 4: Building energy efficiency:
increase the energy efficiency of existing
and future buildings.
GOAL: Retrofit existing buildings to
achieve a 33% energy use reduction
GOAL: All new buildings built to 20%
more efficient than BC Building Code
GOAL: 40% of new buildings adopt zero
or low-carbon heating systems
4.2.8.
Increase energy efficiency
requirements for new buildings to
meet or exceed BC's Step Code.
4.2.9.
Adopt a voluntary standard for
retrofitting older buildings to improve
energy efficiency.
4.2.10. The City shall prioritize and support
energy-efficient infill development and
intensification of currently serviced
areas that are located within walking/
biking distance to stores, services and
amenities (e.g. Downtown, Uptown,
and Columbia Ave Commercial Mixed
Use areas).
4.2.11. Encourage the design and
construction of energy-efficient
new buildings, and retrofits in
existing residential, commercial
and institutional buildings and
infrastructure, using means such
as Revitalization Tax Exemption
Programs, reduced development fees,
and partnerships with other local and
regional environmental organizations.
4.2.12. Explore incentives such as fee
reductions, density bonuses, and tax
strategies to encourage development
to exceed "BC Step Code" and educate
residents about Provincial rebates for
achieving Step Code early.
4.2.13. Advocate to the Provincial government
for additional power and policy tools
to meet the City's climate goals.
4.2.14. Support, prioritize, and advocate for
low carbon energy systems in all new
construction.
Objective 5: Reduce landfill waste
and support diversion and organics
composting.
GOAL: Divert organics from the local
landfill
4.2.15. Continue to promote the reduction
of organic waste in landfills through
education and promotion, and the
creation of household and commercial
communal composting opportunities.
4.2.16. Continue the yard waste diversion
program to reduce organics in the
waste stream.
4.2.17. Support the Regional District
of Central Kootenay Resource
Recovery Plan.
4.2.18. Encourage the adaptive reuse
of buildings to help reduce
construction waste.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
35
34
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Your Way To 2033
Objective 6: Wildfire protection: protect
the community from wildfire risk.
4.2.19. Create a "Wildfire Management
Plan" that identifies high-risk wildfire
interface areas and considers future
impacts from climate change,
creates actions for fuel management
and other preventative measures,
identifies roles and responsibilities
of local government and emergency
services, and identifies emergency
evacuation routes.
4.2.20. Amend the Building Bylaw where
possible to include "FireSmart"
Design Principles into Building
Permit Application.
4.2.21. Require "Landscape Plan"s
to incorporate "FireSmart"
Design Principles.
4.2.22. Include Firesmart Design for Building
Materials and Landscape Design in
Development Permit Areas.
Objective 7: Extreme heat: provide
community supports to reduce the
effects of extreme heat.
4.2.23. Continue to seek ways to assist the
community during times of extreme
heat (e.g. cooling centres).
4.2.24. Continue to expand the urban forest to
reduce the "Urban Heat Island Effect"
in accordance with "FireSmart"
Design Principles.
Figure 5: Urban Heat Island Effect
Protection From Fire &
Extreme Heat
Map 1:
WILDFIRE RISK &
SLOPE STABILITY
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
37
36
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Your Way To 2033
Climate Change Adaptation
Objective 8: Watershed protection.
4.2.25. Prioritize more detailed study of
groundwater protection actions for
well recharge areas, wetlands, and
areas of high aquifer vulnerability
including, but not limited to:
a) Establishing a watershed
protection zone;
b) Establishing a groundwater
protection development permit area;
c) Limiting impermeable site coverage
in the Zoning Bylaw;
d) Developing amenity bonusing to
groundwater protection; and
e) Continual monitoring.
4.2.26. Require a "Landscape Plan" as part of
the development permit application
detailing the following:
a) Erosion control;
b) Protection of banks;
c) Protection and enhancement
of watercourses and
hydrological function;
d) Sensitive Ecosystem Inventory
classification; and
e) All existing and proposed
landscape features.
4.2.27. Incorporate best management
practices for new and existing
developments to support watershed
health, such as pervious paving,
rain gardens, bioswales, deep
absorbent soils, green / blue roofs,
rainwater capture or detention
systems, or other best practices and
emerging techniques.
4.2.28. Work with adjacent jurisdictions
including neighbouring First Nations,
Regional Districts, and other
organizations to collaborate on areas
of shared interest for watershed
management including drinking water
protection through the BC Drinking
Water Protection Act.
Objective 9: Air quality: protect and
enhance local air quality.
4.2.29. Develop an air quality monitoring
program throughout the City and
share information with businesses and
residents to encourage partnerships
that reduce air pollutants.
4.2.30. Establish land uses that reduce the
reliance on motor vehicles.
4.2.31. Design "Active Transportation" Routes
to reduce exposure to pollutants from
traffic by establishing off-street routes
and vegetation buffers.
4.2.32. Support initiatives that reduce wood
stove use, including permitting,
wood stove exchange programs, and
restricting backyard burning.
Map 2:
AQUIFER
VULNERABILITY
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
39
38
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
4.3 Agriculture & Food Security
Access to food is a basic human right and a
key component of a healthy community. As
we quickly realize in many communities in
the Columbia Basin during a highway closure,
pandemic, or other local or global crisis, we
are very susceptible to food insecurity. Many
of our fertile lands are either permanently or
temporarily covered in water. As a result, we
are left to work the margins to produce more
of our own food.
Over the past few years, many people have
experienced significant challenges related to
food security because of the pandemic and
subsequent inflation increases. Job losses and
economic instability has made it difficult for
many families to put food on the table.
Additionally, disruptions in the food supply
chain have led to shortages and higher prices
for certain types of food. These challenges
have been particularly acute for vulnerable
populations, including low-income families.
The Social and Wellbeing Assessment
notes that the Food Bank is one of the most
accessed support services in the community.
The City can address food instability by
reducing barriers to food production and food
assets like grocery stores, neighbourhood
markets, and urban agriculture spaces.
Additionally, it can support existing
organizations by supporting social programs
and creating innovative policies that address
root causes of food insecurity, such as
affordable housing and transportation.
Developing a local food inventory can help
identify future local food production targets.
Agriculture
Objective 10: Support small
scale agriculture in appropriate
neighbourhoods.
4.3.1.
Continue, and consider expansion,
of the City's Hen and Bees initiative
which supports backyard chickens and
bee keeping.
4.3.2.
Consider incorporating appropriate
native edible landscaping and
pollinator gardens on public land,
and parks. Encourage private
developments to incorporate these
principles.
4.3.3.
Direct large and medium-size
agricultural developments to 5.11
Limited Services Residential (LSR) as
identified in Map 5: Land Use.
Food Security
Objective 11: Support community-wide
agriculture initiatives.
4.3.4.
Support the creation of a Food
Security Coordinator position.
4.3.5.
Support food bank programming and
the creation of a Community Food
Hub and Food Recovery Program.
4.3.6.
Continue to support the "Harvest
Match Program" in partnership
with Wildsafe.
4.3.7.
Support the establishment
of community gardens in
all neighbourhoods.
4.3.8.
Support the integration of local food
systems curriculum in local schools.
4.3.9.
Enact a local food procurement policy
for all City events.
4.3.10. Continue to support the Kootenay
Boundary Farm Advisors.
4.3.11. In collaboration with the Food Policy
Council and Young Agrarians, research
effective measures to incentivize
land owners to enter into long-
term leases with landless farmers
(5-year minimum).
4.3.12. Continue to support the transition and
expansion of cannabis production in
the Central Kootenay.
4.3.13. Continue to support food security
by promoting/ supporting farmers
markets (and similar venues) and
stores that offer local and healthy food
options and fresh produce.
4.3.14. Support community initiatives
which promote environmentally and
agriculturally sustainable practices,
such as community gardens, pollinator
planting, a community compost
program, promotion of backyard
composting, and rainwater collection.
Objective 12: Provide infrastructure and
other supports to increase food security.
4.3.15. Ensure adequate access to water for
food production within the City.
4.3.16. Assess and upgrade as necessary
kitchens in community halls so they
can serve as business incubators for
local entrepreneurs.
4.3.17. Support public spaces that can be
used to host community events
such as fairs, farmers markets, or
festivals and help promote community
involvement, integration of greenspace
and help promote surrounding retail
businesses.
Agricultural Land Reserve
Objective 13: Preserve "Agricultural Land
Reserve (ALR)" lands within the City of
Castlegar.
4.3.18. Support the sustainable and
regenerative agricultural use of land
designated within the "Agricultural
Land Reserve (ALR)".
4.3.19. Seek to minimize the effects
of urban development on farm
activities through policies on visual
and spatial separation, reduction of
risks, measures for protection of air
and groundwater quality, and public
awareness of normal farm practices.
Objective 14: Support the protection
of ALR lands adjacent to the City of
Castlegar.
4.3.20. Discourage the removal of ALR Lands
for residential development within the
City of Castlegar.
4.3.21. Work with the RDCK to discourage
the removal of ALR Lands
from the Provincial registry for
residential development.
4.3.22. Ensure that developments within the
City of Castlegar that are adjacent to
ALR Lands locate buildings and uses in
accordance with the Province of BC's
"Guide to Edge Planning".
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
41
40
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Your Way To 2033
4.4 Community-Wide
Ecological Policies
Castlegar is surrounded by breathtaking
natural landscapes and is situated at the
confluence of the Columbia and Kootenay
rivers. The West Kootenay region boasts
diverse ecosystems, including forests, lakes,
and mountains. The City is situated in a valley
within the Selkirk Mountains, and residents
here feel a deep connection to the land.
Castlegar's unique location within the Interior
Cedar Hemlock biogeoclimatic zone hosts
the forests, lakes, streams, wetlands, and
mountains that provide habitat for various
plants and animals.
Castlegar's natural environment performs
several "Ecosystem Services" that benefit
humans, animals, and plants. Ecological
services include cleaning and filtering water,
absorbing and diverting water to reduce
flooding impacts, cleaning the air and helping
to reduce the "Urban Heat Island Effect",
creating rich soil, decomposing wastes,
and groundwater recharge. The natural
environment helps mitigate climate change
impacts by reducing greenhouse gases
through carbon sequestration. The natural
environment can also benefit our mental
health by providing refuge from noise and
pollution and opportunities to recreate or
simply sit, relax and enjoy the view. These
"services" are free of charge, provided we
have made enough space for nature in the
City.
Castlegar's natural environment has been
modified by human use over the past century,
which has made us more vulnerable to
wildfire, flooding, and erosion. We must
integrate environmental protection and
enhancement into planning and development
practices to avoid increasing our susceptibility
to the effects of a changing climate through
further degradation of the environment.
There is a way forward where the City can
safely integrate ecological function into the
City while developing a unique aesthetic
representing a sense of place for Castlegar.
- Gordon Swetlishoff via facebook
Map 3:
ECOLOGICAL
NETWORK
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
43
42
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Community Ecological
Protection & Enhancement
Objective 15: Strengthen and integrate
ecosystems: identify biodiverse
ecosystems and create policies and
Development Permit Area Guidelines.
Objective 16: Protect and rehabilitate
Riparian areas and seek opportunities to
add fish passage.
Integrated Ecosystems
4.4.1.
Establish an "Environmental Land
Use" that discourages development
and encourages protection and
rehabilitation of these areas.
4.4.2.
While avoidance of sensitive
ecosystems and habitats is the priority,
where avoidance is not possible,
the City shall require land use and
development projects to have "no net
loss" of terrestrial or aquatic habitat.
4.4.3.
Complete a "Landscape & Ecosystem
Inventory" to inform the creation of
a Sensitive Ecosystem Development
Permit Area that includes "Natural
Assets", sensitive ecosystems, and
habitat areas for "Endangered and
Threatened Species".
4.4.4. Complete a green infrastructure study
to map "Natural Assets" and develop
plans to responsibly manage this
system as a part of City infrastructure.
4.4.5.
Seek ways to incorporate "Traditional
Ecological Knowledge (TEK)" into
the decision-making process around
Castlegar's ecosystem management.
4.4.6. Identify and protect culturally
significant Indigenous plants and
habitats in partnership with local
Indigenous nations.
4.4.7.
Discourage the use of chemical
fertilizers, pesticides and
herbicides, and promote the use of
environmentally-friendly alternatives
to protect water and ecosystems, and
support naturalized yards.
Riparian Areas
4.4.8. Maintain existing "Riparian Areas"
in their naturalized states, and
discourage development or land
uses that will negatively impact their
ecological function.
4.4.9. Protect "Riparian Areas" through
Development Permit Areas.
4.4.10. Explore opportunities to restore
streams to their natural state by
"Daylighting and Rehabilitating
Streams" that were historically
culverted and paved over as shown in
Map 3: Ecological Network.
4.4.11. Identify and protect wetlands
through "Landscape & Ecosystem
Inventory" mapping, and include these
areas to the Riparian & Sensitive
Ecosystem DPA.
Objective 17: Urban forest: protect and
expand the urban forest.
4.4.12. Recognize and manage the urban
forest as a key piece of the City's
green infrastructure system and its
ability to connect ecosystems, reduce
greenhouse gas emissions, reduce
the "Urban Heat Island Effect",
reduce stormwater impacts through
interception and infiltration, improve
air quality, maintain biodiversity and
support public health and quality
of life.
4.4.13. Update the Subdivision and
Servicing Bylaw, Building Bylaw,
and General Form & Character
Guidelines to include requirements
for tree planting for commercial and
residential developments.
4.4.14. Implement the Street Tree Master
Plan and expand the street tree
program along Columbia Ave,
and throughout the Uptown
Commercial Area.
4.4.15. Increase the percentage of tree
coverage within the "Urban Service
Area (USA)" by 5% by 2033 (from 18% in
2021 to 23% by 2033).
4.4.16. Develop a Tree Inventory and
Protection Bylaw that identifies
significant trees within the City, and
requires permits for removal of
protected trees.
4.4.17. Develop a Castlegar Species
Inventory that:
a) Integrates "FireSmart"
Design Principles;
b) Considers climate change, and
species that will be appropriate to
Castlegar's future climate;
c) Prioritizes these species by actively
planting appropriate species on
municipally-owned land; and
d) Share the list with the public to
encourage the integration of locally-
appropriate-species throughout the
community.
4.4.18. Promote the benefits of street trees
identified in the Street Tree Master
Plan to the public.
4.4.19. Encourage street tree planting and
other climate resilient landscaping in
new and existing neighbourhoods and
redevelopment sites using the "3, 30,
300 Rule".
4.4.20. Discourage removal of trees purely for
view enhancement.
4.4.21. Provide information and education to
raise community awareness on the
importance of healthy urban trees.
4.4.22. Promote pollinator-friendly plants on
public and private lands throughout
the City.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
45
44
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Objective 20: Reduce impacts of
development on the community and
environmental lands.
4.4.27. Establish a "Dark Sky" policy to
encourage the installation and
replacement of outdoor lights to direct
light down, to reduce light pollution
that negatively affects bird migration
and human circadian rhythm.
4.4.28. Encourage the reduction of noise
impacts from industry, transportation,
and other human uses to reduce noise
pollution impacts that may negatively
impact animal migration.
4.4.29. Continue to balance community
safety, energy, and "Dark Sky"
preservation in the selection and
installation of new and upgraded
street lighting infrastructure.
4.4.30. Reduce the impacts of the
transportation system on the natural
environment by:
a) Reducing stormwater runoff
through infiltration and retention
by incorporating green street
standards, and incorporating green
infrastructure as a part of the City's
stormwater management system
to achieve:
i)
Pollutant and sediment capture
before they enter the natural
environment; and
ii) Lower stream temperatures
to protect fish and aquatic
species habitat.
b) Providing wildlife passages, such
as appropriately-sized culverts,
underpasses or overpasses where
feasible along wildlife corridors to
connect critical habitat.
c)
Alter roads and trails where
feasible to protect environmentally
sensitive areas.
4.4.31. Develop Environmentally Sensitive
Area (ESA) Protection Tools such as:
a) Dedicating land as City Park or
open space;
b) Returning to Crown Land;
c)
Use a development conservation
covenant with the City, the Province
and/or a nongovernmental
organization (NGO) to hold
the covenant;
d) Consider using a land trust and
combining environmental protection
with housing cooperatives.
e) Discourage development outside
the "Urban Service Area (USA)" and
incentivize infill development and
appropriate clustering; or
f)
Require protection of ESAs as an
amenity contribution at the time
of rezoning or subdivision within
the USA.
4.4.32. Develop density bonusing for
developments that protect an
additional 10% or more of the
minimum area of identified ESAs.
Density bonusing may include:
a) Allow increased density on the
"Developable Area" of the property
by including the entire site area in
the density calculation;
b) Transferring density to another
property that is the equivalent
percentage of land being dedicated
beyond the minimum area (i.e. 8%
additional land protected = 8%
density bonus);
c)
Trading land;
d) Purchasing land;
e) Offering grants-in-aid; or
f)
Granting tax exemptions.
4.4.33. Develop a Blue-Green Policy to
encourage the incorporation of
stormwater infiltration (blue) and
vegetation (green) into parking lots
and landscaping.
Objective 18: Wildlife: protect and
connect critical wildlife habitat and
corridors.
4.4.23. Identify critical wildlife corridors and
create policies and Development
Permit Area Guidelines.
4.4.24. Discourage development or land
uses that will negatively impact
wildlife corridors.
Objective 19: Reduce wildlife / pest
conflicts: reduce wildlife and pest
conflicts through education and
regulation.
4.4.25. Expand the Bear Smart Community
Dumpster Pilot Project throughout
the community.
4.4.26. Continue to educate the community
about securing their property from
outdoor wildlife attractants through:
a) Develop a "welcome guide" for
newcomers, including recent
immigrants to educate them on how
to be "Bear Smart";
b) Distribute materials to renters; and
c)
Make materials publicly available
at community locations such as
the grocery store, post office,
community centre, etc.
- https://www.bearsmart.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/JeanieCubs.jpg
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
47
46
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
5.0 How We Want to Use
the Land
5.1
Introduction
As we look ahead 10 years to 2033, what do
we see for Castlegar?
How will we adapt to a changing climate?
Where should new housing be built? What
should it look like? What will happen to our
Downtown? How can we create meaningful
community connections?
These questions and many more are
answered in this section of the Community
Plan. How we want to use the land is one
of the most important decisions for our City.
One thing that we know for certain is that
the future brings change, with the added
complexities of climate change making us
rethink how we live now and into the future.
We know that we need more diversity and
choice of housing to keep Castlegar an
affordable place for families, seniors and
youth. We understand that our main spine,
Columbia Ave, has the opportunity to connect
us all - through improved public transit, better
bike infrastructure and safer walking.
Our neighbourhoods will also evolve and
change, with streets for everyone (not just
cars), more diverse housing options, expansion
of home based businesses, and opportunities
for more small-scale commercial activity
throughout neighbourhoods.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
49
48
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Your Way To 2033
Our Community Evolution Strategy is a
summary of the priorities in this Plan that will
guide the City as it changes over the next 10
years. These priorities are shown on a series of
maps, graphics and text.
Priorities Include:
- Focus Growth in Key Nodes - with nodes
of three different scales, City Activity Nodes
(Downtown and Uptown), District Nodes,
and Neighbourhood Nodes.
- Protect and Restore the City's Ecosystems
- to adapt to a changing climate.
- Create a Dynamic Columbia Ave Corridor
- through intensification of housing and
businesses along Columbia Avenue and
the addition of more reliable and frequent
transit.
- Diversify the City's Neighbourhoods
- through more housing choice
and local commercial in all
residential neighbourhoods.
x
Nurture an Active City - through improved
access to recreational amenities (parks,
trails, recreation facilities, and transit) for
all neighbourhoods.
See Section 1.3 for more information.
Map 4: COMMUNITY
EVOLUTION STRATEGY
CITY OF CASTLEGAR
ARTERIAL ROAD
Columbia Ave Transit Corridor arterial road is
intended to be a multi-modal transit-oriented
development corridor. Coordinated, more frequent
and reliable bus service will link to surrounding
routes, and provide better transit service
throughout the City
HIGHWAY
These routes are key transportation and supply
routes that connect us to the region and our
regional neighbours.
COLLECTOR ROAD
Key City Connections link neighbourhoods together
via roads, bike lanes, and sidewalks.
LOCAL COLLECTOR ROAD
Neighbourhood multi-use connections are the
main routes through neighbourhoods and are slow
and safe enough to share the road with non-
motorized transportation.
TRAIL CONNECTIONS
Non-motorized connections are envisioned
to include walking, biking, skateboarding,
and scootering.
ECOLOGICAL CONNECTIONS
Ecological connections will be maintained
in a semi-natural state and act as a small
wildlife corridor
ECOLOGICAL STUDY AREA
These areas have significant environmental
restraints, such as floodplains, steep slopes,
riparian areas and wetlands. Some ares may be
suitable for development, but it is important to
study them prior to development to ensure the
ecological function of the City stays strong.
CITY GROWTH AREAS
These areas that will see the most community
growth by infilling properties with people-oriented
mixed use development that encourages walking
and creates distinct, attractive destinations in
the region.
5.2 Community Evolution
Strategy
DISTRICT GROWTH AREAS
These areas will focus on mixed-use and
residential infill with multi-family development to
provide a mix of housing badly needed in Castlegar.
NEIGHBOURHOOD NODE AREAS
These areas will become neighbourhood hubs
with small, neighbourhood-oriented mixed use
infill, allowing residents to walk to a corner store or
cafe in their neighbourhood.
INDUSTRIAL GROWTH AREAS
These growth areas will be the main focus areas
for industrial and service commercial businesses
in Castlegar. These areas will grow and evolve to
meet the needs of Castlegar residents.
EDUCATION NODE
Selkirk College is an important community link.
Pedestrian connections to the college should be
improved.
GROWTH CORRIDOR
This corridor will support City growth and District
growth areas by adding more multi-family
residential development in a form that will support
the development of a transit corridor along
Columbia Ave.
Rivers & Lakes
Paved Roads
Resources / Unclassified Roads
Railway Lines
Dams & Bridges
Parcels
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
51
50
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Your Way To 2033
Introduction
Castlegar is a growing City with a diverse
population of citizens, incredible natural areas,
and thriving businesses. The City's future
growth should be well-planned, building off
the City's current assets and infrastructure
while reflecting core community values.
Historically the City has grown outwards,
bringing in new areas within its boundaries
to create a strong regional economic hub.
But continued expansion of the City has
its challenges, and the future will be more
focused on infill and redevelopment of existing
areas. Based on mapping analysis, the City has
identified there is significant potential within
its existing boundary to accommodate future
population and business growth. However,
infill and redevelopment should be designed
and built in a way that enhances the quality
of life for residents and businesses. Good
design of these new forms of housing is key to
gaining and maintaining community buy-in for
more density.
Intent
Ensure future developments enhance the
neighbourhoods in which they are built
through high-quality design.
Applicability
The following objectives and policies apply to
all lands on Map 5: Land Use.
List of Land Uses:
1. Natural & Hazard Area (NHA)
2. Comprehensive Planning Area (CPA)
3. Downtown (DT)
4. Uptown Mixed-Use Node (UMU)
5. Columbia Ave Corridor (CAC)
6. Residential Neighbourhoods (RN)
7. Downtown Neighbourhood (DTN)
8. Limited Services Residential (LSR)
9. Business - Industrial (BI)
10. Heavy Industrial / Resource (HI)
11. Airport (AIR)
5.3 Land Use
Map 5:
LAND USE
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
53
52
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
- https-::imaginekootenay.com:wp-content:uploads:2019:09:Community-Castlegar-1100.jpg
Objectives
Objective 21: Protect and restore the
City's ecosystems.
Objective 22: Support the intensification
of housing and businesses along
Columbia Avenue.
Objective 23: Focus growth in key mixed-
use nodes, such as Downtown and
Uptown.
Objective 24: Support a diversity of
housing options in all neighbourhoods.
Objective 25: Improve access to
amenities in all neighbourhoods.
Objective 26: Plan for a future impacted
by climate change by encouraging
compact, energy-efficient development.
Objective 27: Prioritize infill and
redevelopment within the City over
development of vacant lands or
expansion of the City's boundaries solely
for residential development.
City-Wide Land Use
Policies
5.3.1.
Do not expand the Municipal
boundary solely for new
residential development.
5.3.2.
Ensure there is sufficient housing
supply to meet the City's growth
needs for the next 20 years by
undertaking the following:
a) Regularly updating the Housing
Needs Assessment in compliance
with provincial legislation; and
b) Creating and maintaining a
system for tracking, reporting, and
monitoring the supply and demand
of housing and residential land
within the City.
5.3.3.
Ensure there is sufficient supply of
commercial and industrial land to
meet the City's growth needs for the
next 20 years by:
a) Creating and maintaining a
system for tracking, reporting and
monitoring the supply and demand
of commercial and industrial land
within the City.
City-Wide Urban Design
Policies
Attractive Buildings & Sites
Creating an attractive neighbourhood with
well-designed buildings and sites has many
benefits that go beyond simple aesthetics. A
beautiful neighbourhood encourages people
to walk and play outside, because there
are sufficient places for those activities. It
encourages people to stop and enjoy the
views, because they've been enhanced by new
buildings, rather than having key viewpoints
blocked. Subsequently businesses are
attracted by well-designed places, because
that's where the people (i.e. customers) are
congregating. The following policies aim to
enhance the urban environment through
high-quality design of buildings and sites.
Objective 28: Follow Simple Design
Principles to Ensure that Buildings Create
an Attractive Built Form
5.3.4.
Require all buildings to face or front
onto the primary access road.
5.3.5.
Require all buildings to have a main
entry that is clearly identifiable and
that faces a public street.
5.3.6.
Limit block lengths and ensure that
access to adjacent blocks (roads,
sidewalks or pathways) is provided at
least every 300m.
5.3.7.
New street and block layouts should
attempt to create an interconnected
road network with more than 1 road
access to all properties.
Infill Existing Neighbourhoods &
Districts
By absorbing growth within existing
neighbourhoods, infill provides for
the efficient use of infrastructure and
services, and reduces growth pressure
on undeveloped areas and open spaces.
Castlegar has many vacant and underutilized
lots. Infill provides an opportunity to grow
within the City's existing infrastructure,
enhancing walkable area connections and
continuity of streetscapes.
Objective 29: Prioritize infill in existing
neighbourhoods and commercial districts
to use infrastructure more efficiently and
reduce pressure on natural areas.
5.3.8.
Infill and redevelopment should
be prioritized where existing
infrastructure capacity is available.
5.3.9.
City infrastructure spending should be
aligned with the growth directions of
this Plan, specifically:
a) Focusing growth on key nodes (e.g.
Downtown and Uptown);
b) Creating a dynamic Columbia
Avenue Corridor;
c) Diversifying the City's
neighbourhoods; and
d) Nurturing an active City.
5.3.10. City infrastructure planning and
spending should ensure there is
sufficient capacity for water, sewer and
transportation systems for infill and
redevelopment at the densities outlined
in this Plan and the Zoning Bylaw.
55
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
5.4 Natural & Hazard Area (NHA)
Introduction
The Natural & Hazard Area (NHA) consists of
all unprotected floodplains, environmentally
sensitive areas, important habitat lands,
undeveloped creeks and associated buffers
and steep slopes.
Intent
The intent of this land use area is to protect
and conserve sensitive and hazard lands for
the benefit of flora, fauna, ecological systems
and humans.
Applicability
The following objectives and policies apply to
lands identified as "Natural & Hazard Area" on
Map 5: Land Use.
Objectives
Objective 30: Protect and restore the
City's ecological fabric.
Objective 31: Identify known habitat
areas for sensitive species.
Objective 32: Ensure that lands with
significant and/or multiple hazards or
ecological significance are identified
as clearly not intended for future
development.
Objective 33: Identify lands for
environmental protection within the City
that provide critical ecological functions
for the City and its residents (e.g.
stormwater/flood management, habitat
for sensitive species, wildfire buffer,
steep slopes).
Objective 34: Preserve ALR Lands
Policies
5.4.1.
Lands identified as Natural & Hazard
Area on Map 5: Land Use shall
have no development unless the
development proposal meets the
requirements of this Plan.
5.4.2.
Undertake and reinforce protection
from hazards and enhancement
of environmentally sensitive areas
on Map 5: Land Use through the
Natural & Hazard Development Permit
Area (DPA).
5.4.3.
The City shall take advantage of
opportunities at the subdivision
approval stage to further preserve,
conserve or protect lands identified
on Map 5: Land Use as Natural &
Hazard Area from future development
through use of available legislative
tools.
5.4.4.
The City shall seek opportunities to
buffer or setback development from
those lands identified on Map 5:
Land Use as Natural & Hazard Area.
5.4.5.
The City shall commit to maintaining
and updating (e.g. every 10 years) the
base data and studies that underpin
the Natural & Hazard Area Land Use,
including:
a) "Landscape & Ecosystem
Inventory" of the City's sensitive
environmental areas;
b) Steep slopes over 20% with
landslide risk;
c) Flood prone / flood risk areas
including riparian areas and
wetlands; and
d) Wildfire risk areas.
5.4.6.
Lands identified within Map 5: Land
Use as Natural & Hazard Area should
also be protected through zoning in
the City's Zoning Bylaw.
5.4.7.
"Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR)"
Lands within the NHA area are
intended to continue agricultural uses
consistent with ALR Regulations.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
57
56
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
5.5 Comprehensive Planning Area (CPA)
Introduction
The Comprehensive Planning Area (CPA)
consists of all relatively flat lands that are
surrounded by the Natural & Hazard Area,
and may be impacted by natural conditions
or hazards such as unprotected floodplains,
environmentally sensitive areas, undeveloped
creeks and associated buffers and
steep slopes.
Intent
The intent of this land use area is to ensure
that comprehensive plans are created prior
to development in this area, to protect
citizens and the environment from impacts
associated with development in and around
environmental and hazard lands.
Applicability
The following objectives and policies apply to
lands identified as "Comprehensive Planning
Area" on Map 5: Land Use.
Objectives
Objective 35: Ensure the benefits of
development outweigh the costs
and risks in an area surrounded by
development challenges.
Objective 36: Protect current and future
residents from hazards.
Objective 37: Ensure comprehensive
planning and environmental analysis is
undertaken prior to development within
this area.
Policies
5.5.1.
Prior to approving new development
or redesignating lands in the CPA
a neighbourhood plan shall be
completed that includes community
engagement and examines:
a) Wildfire risk and
emergency preparedness;
b) Hazard assessment;
c) Environmentally significant habitat;
d) Servicing infrastructure costs;
e) Development potential of these
lands; and
f) A Financial impact assessment that
analyzes the short (e.g. 5 year) and
long-term (e.g. 25 years) financial
impact of the development on
the City and its infrastructure and
operating costs;
5.5.2.
Lands identified as Comprehensive
Planning Area on Map 5: Land Use
may permit development, provided
the development proposal meets the
requirements of this Plan.
5.5.3.
Where development is deemed
appropriate within this designation,
and is otherwise permitted within this
Plan, the development should:
a) Mitigate for environmentally
sensitive areas or hazards, such as
flooding, wildfire, slope erosion and/
or impact on wildlife and sensitive
species.
b) Have a mix of land uses including
residential, neighbourhood
commercial, and recreational uses.
c) Residential development with
municipal piped servicing shall have
a minimum density of 40 units
per hectare.
5.5.4.
Undertake and reinforce protection
from hazards and enhancement
of environmentally sensitive areas
on Map 5: Land Use through the
Environmental & Hazard Development
Permit Area (DPA).
5.5.5.
Where sensitive environmental
lands are identified during the
comprehensive neighbourhood
planning of this area, the City shall
conserve or protect these sensitive
environmental lands at the subdivision
and/or rezoning stage through use of
available legislative tools.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
59
58
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
5.6 Downtown Node (DT)
Introduction & Intent
The Downtown Node (DT) consists of the
heart of the City of Castlegar, its Downtown.
The intent of this land use is to create a
thriving and active Downtown mixed-use
area, where people live, work and shop.
Commercial activity should be supported by
residential and institutional uses within the
Downtown. The streets should be designed to
encourage walking and cycling.
Applicability
The following objectives and policies apply
to lands identified as "Downtown Node" on
Map 5: Land Use.
Objectives
Objective 38: Be the City's central
commercial and mixed-use gathering area.
Objective 39: Be a mixed-use growth
area for the City with a balanced mix of
residential, commercial and institutional
land uses.
Objective 40: Be the preferred location
for the City's civic institutions (City Hall
and other major institutions).
Objective 41: Increase the density
and amount of development in the
Downtown to maintain vibrancy.
Objective 42: Enhance the Downtown
through strong urban design principles
to create an attractive place where
businesses and people want to be.
Objective 43: Slow traffic in the
Downtown to promote walking and
cycling as well as commercial activity.
Policies
5.6.1.
The Downtown should have
the following mix of land uses:
commercial, institutional, recreational
and residential uses.
5.6.2.
All developments should address
policies within the adopted
Downtown Area Plan.
a) The City should update the adopted
Downtown Area Plan every 10 years.
5.6.3.
Residential uses should be
complementary to the commercial
and institutional character of the
Downtown in the form of upper
storey apartments, townhouses and/
or live-work units.
5.6.4.
Residential uses in the Downtown
are preferred to be in the form of
residential dwellings on upper floors of
a mixed-use building. However, where
a building is only residential use it shall:
a) Be in the form of higher-density
residential (e.g. 3 storeys or greater);
b) Have a minimum of two
dwelling units;
c) Strive for a minimum density of
60 units per hectare (24 units per
acre); and
d) Not be in the form of
single-detached residential.
5.6.5.
Accessory dwelling units are permitted
on parcels with a single-detached
residential dwelling constructed prior
to the adoption of this Plan.
5.6.6.
Buildings should be built along the
front lot line.
5.6.7.
Notwithstanding Policy 5.6.6 above,
buildings may be set back further in
order to provide public or semi-public
space for:
a) Public plazas;
b) Public parks or parkettes; and
c) Patios.
5.6.8.
Ground floor uses should be customer
or patient-oriented uses, such as
commercial, medical services, or civic
uses with residential or offices located
above the first storey.
5.6.9.
Secondary entrances to buildings and
lots should be provided from side roads.
5.6.10. Encourage the use of the Downtown
Node for the hosting of special events
and public ceremonies.
5.6.11.
Create a Downtown Development
Permit Area to guide the form and
character of developments in the
Downtown.
5.6.12. Development should incorporate
pedestrian and transit-oriented
design elements such as seating
areas, bike racks, sidewalks and
multi-use connections.
5.6.13. The City should investigate
opportunities to increase safety and
walkability of the Downtown, including:
a) Encouraging street-front patios;
b) Adding more walking and cycling
infrastructure;
c) Identifying roads that may be closed
for special events (e.g. 4th Street);
d) Traffic calming measures; and
e) Working with the Ministry of
Transportation and Infrastructure
on Columbia Ave. to maintain
traffic flow, while improving the
pedestrian realm.
5.6.14. Update the City's Sign Bylaw to reflect
best practices and design principles,
with specific focus on regulating
Window Signs to improve visual
permeability into businesses.
5.6.15. Complete a Downtown Parking Plan
to assess parking demand and provide
for long-term management.
5.6.16. Consider closing 4th Street to vehicular
traffic either temporarily or permanently
and make it a pedestrian plaza.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
61
60
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
5.7 Uptown Mixed-Use Node (UMU)
Introduction
The Uptown Mixed-Use Node (UMU)
currently consists of mainly regional scale
vehicle-oriented commercial development.
However, there are also residential and
institutional uses within this area that, if all
connected, could create a bustling mixed-
use node for Castlegar. The level of activity
in this area creates the optimal conditions
for a future mixed-use node that has a
better balance of commercial, residential and
institutional uses. A successful mixed-use
node will also require equitable opportunities
and infrastructure to allow people to safely
access the area using walking, cycling, transit
and personal vehicles.
Intent
The overall intent of this land use is to evolve
the area into a mixed-use node that continues
to have thriving commercial activity, but also
integrates residential and institutional uses in
a seamless way. Residential uses should be
in the form of higher density developments
(townhouses or apartments) and residential
units above ground-floor commercial.
Applicability
The following objectives and policies apply to
lands identified as "Uptown Mixed Use" on
Map 5: Land Use.
Objectives
Objective 44: Create a vibrant mixed-use
node that has a balance of commercial,
residential and institutional uses that
are connected through multi-modal
infrastructure (i.e. sidewalk/paths, bike
lanes, roads, and transit).
Objective 45: Encourage efficient use of
land and promote taller buildings (e.g. 3
storeys or greater).
Objective 46: Encourage the
redevelopment of lots with single-
detached residential into compact
mixed-use developments or higher
density residential.
Objective 47: Promote compact mixed-
use developments in the form of
buildings with commercial on the ground
floor and residential on upper floors.
Objective 48: Prioritize creating an
attractive, unique mixed-use area by
focusing on enhancing the public realm.
Objective 49: Improve walkability
by improving connectivity for non-
motorized uses.
Policies
5.7.1.
The Uptown Mixed-Use Node should
have the following mix of land
uses: commercial, institutional and
residential uses.
5.7.2.
Residential uses should adhere to the
following policies:
a) Residential uses should be in the
form of higher-density residential
buildings (e.g. 3 storeys or greater) or
residential dwellings on upper floors
of a mixed-use building.
b) A parcel with only residential use
should have a minimum of two
dwelling units and strive for a
minimum density of 60 units per
hectare (24 units per acre).
c) New single-detached residential
developments shall not be
permitted.
5.7.3.
Accessory dwelling units are permitted
on parcels with a single-detached
residential dwelling constructed prior
to the adoption of this Plan.
5.7.4.
Create an Uptown Mixed-Use
Development Permit Area to guide the
form and character of developments
in this area.
5.7.5.
All developments shall specify how
they are addressing multi-modal
transportation, including walking,
cycling, transit and personal vehicles.
5.7.6.
The City should investigate
opportunities to increase safety and
walkability of the Uptown Mixed-Use
Node, including:
a) Adding more walking and cycling
infrastructure (including end-of-trip
facilities);
b) Encouraging patios;
c) Identifying roads that may be subject
to slower speeds and/or traffic
calming measures; and
d) Working with the Ministry of
Transportation and Infrastructure on
these matters, where applicable.
5.7.7.
The City supports a diversity of rental,
affordable and accessible housing
units within this area.
5.7.8.
Secondary entrances should be
provided from side roads.
5.7.9.
Development proposals on lands
greater than 1.0 hectare should include
public / amenity space of 5% or greater
of the total lot area.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
63
62
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
5.8 Columbia Ave Corridor (CAC)
Introduction
The City of Castlegar is supported by a well-
defined corridor along Columbia Avenue.
Locals can scarcely go a day without
somehow connecting to the Columbia
Avenue Corridor, whether it be by car, bike,
walking or transit. Castlegar's long linear
geography makes such a corridor necessary
for the mobility of its citizens and visitors. The
Columbia Avenue Corridor serves two main
purposes: as a mobility corridor helping people
get around the City, and as a destination
for local commercial activity or as home for
people who live along the corridor. Corridors
should complement and not detract from
the economic activity nodes within a city.
In Castlegar, these nodes are Downtown
and the Uptown Mixed-Use Node, both of
which can be supported by a well-designed
and functioning corridor. This means having
reliable and frequent public transit, walking
and cycling infrastructure, a mix of land uses
(residential, mixed-use, and local commercial)
and well-designed public spaces.
The Columbia Avenue Corridor (CAC) land use
area consists of lands along, and adjacent
to, Columbia Avenue as shown on Map 5:
Land Use.
Intent
The intent of the Columbia Avenue Corridor
(CAC) is to focus the City's economic activity
and development density along this corridor
and within the connected nodes (i.e.
Downtown and Uptown areas).
Applicability
The following objectives and policies apply to
lands identified as "Columbia Ave Corridor" on
Map 5: Land Use.
Objectives
Objective 50: Allow for residential,
commercial and mixed-use
developments at higher densities
and heights compared to the City's
neighbourhoods.
Objective 51: Create an efficient mobility
corridor along Columbia Avenue for all
modes, including walking, cycling/rolling,
transit, and vehicles.
Objective 52: Ensure Columbia Avenue
has reliable and frequent public transit
service.
Objective 53: Promote compact mixed-
use developments in the form of
buildings with commercial on the ground
floor and residential on upper floors.
Policies
5.8.1.
The Columbia Avenue Corridor
should have the following mix of land
uses: commercial, institutional and
residential uses.
5.8.2.
Residential uses should adhere to the
following policies:
a) Residential uses should be in the
form of higher-density residential
buildings (e.g. 3 storeys or greater) or
residential dwellings on upper floors
of a mixed-use building.
b) A parcel with only residential use
shall have a minimum of two
dwelling units and should strive for
a minimum density of 40 units per
hectare (16 units per acre).
c) New single-detached residential
developments shall not be
permitted.
5.8.3.
Accessory dwelling units are permitted
on parcels with a single-detached
residential dwelling constructed prior
to the adoption of this Plan.
5.8.4.
Create a Columbia Avenue Corridor
Development Permit Area to guide the
form and character of developments
in this area.
5.8.5.
All developments shall specify how
they are addressing multi-modal
transportation, including: walking,
cycling, transit and personal vehicles.
5.8.6.
The City supports a diversity of rental,
affordable and accessible housing
units within this area.
5.8.7.
New live-work buildings or conversion
of existing residential dwellings into
live-work buildings is supported and
encouraged.
5.8.8.
The City shall continue to expand the
sidewalks along Columbia Avenue
with the goal of having sidewalks on
both sides of Columbia Avenue CAC
between Arrow Lakes Drive and 28th
Ave by 2033.
5.8.9.
To facilitate bike lanes, on-street
parking will be phased out along
Columbia Avenue and no new on-
street parking shall be allowed.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
65
64
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
5.9 Residential Neighbourhood (RN)
Introduction
The Residential Neighbourhood (RN) land
use consists of the City's mainly residential
areas outside of the north end, east of
Downtown. While the City does not have
officially recognized neighbourhoods, many
residents feel connected to the area they
live in and identify themselves as part of
a neighbourhood. Each neighbourhood in
Castlegar has its own uniqueness, whether
it be the design, location, age or the
people who live there. Ensuring Castlegar's
neighbourhoods maintain their individuality as
they change over time is a priority of this Plan.
What will the future hold for Castlegar's
neighbourhoods? All neighbourhoods
evolve and change over time; for example, a
neighbourhood of all young families eventually
becomes full of empty-nesters some 20+
years later. Gradually new people move in, and
the homes might be renovated or replaced.
Soon, change becomes visible on the outside.
Change may also be in the form of new
housing diversity, adding duplexes or triplexes
where before only single-detached homes
existed. New businesses and local commercial
areas may pop up to serve the daily needs
of residents.
The City is facing a housing shortage, and
these existing neighbourhoods provide
opportunities to expand its housing diversity,
and add small-scale local businesses within
a walkable distance, while being sensitive
to their existing character. As per the City's
Housing Strategy, there are opportunities
within neighbourhoods to add new types of
housing, including allowing:
x
Detached accessory dwelling units;
x
Suites above detached garages;
x
Duplexes, triplexes and fourplexes;
x
Conversion of single-detached homes to
2-, 3- or 4-unit dwellings;
x
Infill of vacant lots;
x
Replacement of single-detached homes
with 2-, 3- or 4-unit dwellings;
x
Apartment units above local commercial
(mixed use units); and
x
Rental and/or accessible housing.
Intent
The intent of the Residential Neighbourhood
land use is to maintain the uniqueness of
each of the City's neighbourhoods while
allowing each neighbourhood the flexibility to
change over time, including adding a greater
diversity of housing types, and allowing local
businesses to emerge to serve neighbourhood
residents.
Applicability
The following objectives and policies
apply to lands identified as "Residential
Neighbourhood" on Map 5: Land Use.
Objectives
Objective 54: Create greater
housing diversity within the City's
neighbourhoods.
Objective 55: Support rental, affordable
and accessible housing throughout
Castlegar's neighbourhoods.
Objective 56: Ensure each neighbourhood
is supported with parks, open spaces,
recreation opportunities and pedestrian
infrastructure.
Objective 57: Permit local mixed use
commercial in areas that best serve the
neighbourhood.
Objective 58: Guide the gradual change
of the City's neighbourhoods in a way
that maintains their unique character
while adapting to the changing needs of
residents.
Policies
General Residential Neighbourhood
Policies
5.9.1.
Residential Neighbourhoods should
be mainly residential with supportive
recreational areas, park spaces,
and institutional uses (e.g. schools,
daycares, government services).
5.9.2.
Neighbourhoods shall allow for an
appropriate range of neighbourhood-
scale housing types including: single-
detached homes, detached accessory
dwelling units, secondary suites, two-
unit dwellings, three-unit dwellings
and four-unit dwellings.
5.9.3.
Notwithstanding 5.9.2 above,
rezoning applications for up to 8
units may be supported if apartments
or rowhouses:
a) Are built to the scale of existing
houses in the neighbourhood;
b) Provide 20% as affordable
rental units;
c) Provide adequate greenspace for
residents; and
d) Address parking needs on-site.
5.9.4.
Neighbourhoods should strive for a
minimum residential gross density
across the entire neighbourhood of 20
units per hectare (8 units per acre).
5.9.5.
Rental, affordable, and accessible
housing are supported in all
neighbourhoods.
5.9.6.
All residential lots should be in close
proximity to a trail, sidewalk or
pathway.
Neighbourhood Mixed Use Node Policies
5.9.7.
Rezoning to a neighbourhood-
scale mixed use designation will be
supported provided it meets the
following conditions:
a) It is located along an arterial or
connector road;
b) It is sensitive to the
scale of the surrounding
residential neighbourhood(s);
c) It provides residential units in
addition to ground-floor commercial
and/or institutional;
d) There is not another established
mixed use node within 500m; and
e) It is located within 100m of a local
park or school or it provides semi-
public amenity space (e.g. patios,
plazas or greenspace).
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
67
66
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
5.10 Downtown Neighbourhood (DTN)
Introduction
The Downtown Neighbourhood (DTN)
consists of the mainly residential area
adjacent to the Downtown. This traditional
neighbourhood has an advantageous location,
with nearby commercial activity in the
Downtown, the ability to walk to schools
and availability of recreation amenities at
Millennium Park. Due to its location, the
Downtown Neighbourhood is already
seeing some significant changes, with new
attached housing on the edge of Downtown.
Based on community survey results, there
appears to be a willingness of the Downtown
Neighbourhood residents to support increased
housing diversity.
Intent
The intent of the Downtown Neighbourhood
land use is to guide the evolution of this
area by supporting the diversification of
housing opportunities.
Applicability
The following objectives and policies
apply to lands identified as "Downtown
Neighbourhood" on Map 5: Land Use.
Objectives
Objective 59: Create more housing
diversity within proximity of the City's
Downtown to support its commercial area.
Objective 60: To guide the evolution of
the Downtown neighbourhood in a way
that maintains its unique character and
community feel.
Objective 61: Support rental, affordable
and accessible housing throughout the
Downtown Neighbourhood.
Policies
5.10.1.
The Downtown Neighbourhood should
be mainly residential with supportive
recreational areas, park spaces and
institutional uses (e.g. schools, daycares,
government services).
5.10.2. The Downtown Neighbourhood
shall allow for an appropriate range
of housing types including: single-
detached homes, detached accessory
dwelling units, secondary suites, two-
unit dwellings, three-unit dwellings,
four-unit dwellings and townhouses
(up to 8 units).
5.10.3. Notwithstanding 5.10.2 above, rezoning
applications for more than 8 dwellings
units per lot may be supported if
apartments or rowhouses:
a) Provide 20% as affordable
rental units;
b) Provide adequate greenspace for
residents; and
c) Address parking needs on-site.
5.10.4. The Downtown Neighbourhood
should strive for a minimum
residential gross density across the
entire neighbourhood of 30 units per
hectare (12 units per acre).
5.10.5. Individual developments consisting
of eight (8) or more dwelling units or
0.5 hectares or greater shall achieve a
minimum gross residential density of
40 units per hectare (16 units per acre).
5.10.6. Rental, affordable and accessible
housing are supported.
5.10.7. All residential lots should be
supported by a trail, sidewalk or
pathway in close proximity.
5.10.8. Conversion or replacement of
single-detached dwellings to
multi-unit dwellings is encouraged
and supported in the Downtown
Neighbourhood.
5.10.9. The City should strive for streets
to be supported by sidewalks (or
pathways) on both sides of street.
5.10.10. New developments should be
sensitive, where possible, to the
existing street form and character,
including existing front setbacks and
heights of buildings.
5.10.11. Rezoning to a neighbourhood-
scale mixed use designation will be
supported provided it meets the
following conditions:
a) It is located along an arterial or
connector road;
b) It is built at the same
scale as surrounding
neighbourhood residential;
c) It provides residential
units in addition to
ground-floor commercial;
d) There is not another established
mixed use node within 500m; and
e) It is located within 100m of a local
park or school or it provides semi-
public amenity space (e.g. patios,
plazas or greenspace).
DENSITY REFERENCES
Above - 40 units per hectare
(16 units per acre)
Typical dominant housing:
3-4 storey townhouses
Above - 30 units per hectare
(12 units per acre)
Typical housing mix:
2-, 3-, 4-, 5-plexes at
1-3 storeys
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
69
68
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
5.11 Limited Services Residential (LSR)
Introduction
The Limited Services Residential (LSR) land
use consists of rural residential and business
uses that are outside the "Urban Service
Area (USA)" of the City. Typically, these
developments are not connected to the City's
water and/or sewer service and have a rural
character. Creating a sensitive transition from
higher-intensity urban development areas
to the surrounding rural and natural areas is
important to ensure compatibility between
both urban and rural areas. Additionally, the
connectivity of natural systems is key to
maintaining broader ecosystem functions,
including waterways, drainage and wildlife
corridor connectivity.
Intent
The intent of this land use area is to ensure
development is compatible with the rural
land surrounding the City. The intent of this
land use area is not to reserve lands for future
urban development.
Applicability
The following objectives and policies apply
to lands identified as "Limited Services
Residential" on Map 5: Land Use.
Objectives
Objective 62: To allow rural properties
within City limits to continue to use and
enjoy their homes and businesses in a
way that is compatible with the rural
character of the area.
Objective 63: To maintain natural
systems and create development
patterns that are sensitive to the rural
areas that surround the City.
Objective 64: To identify residential areas
that may be feasible for full servicing in
the future.
Policies
5.11.1.
The Limited Services Residential land
use area should have land uses that
are rural in nature, exhibited by a
low density of development, limited
or no piped municipal servicing and
sensitivity to natural systems and
agricultural lands. Appropriate land
uses include: rural residential with one
to three units per parcel, rural live-
work, institutional uses, recreational
uses, agriculture, horticulture, equine
operations and rural businesses.
5.11.2.
Major planning, re-zoning and/or
development applications within the
Limited Services Residential (LSR)
should be referred to the Regional
District of Central Kootenay for
comment prior to a decision.
5.11.3.
Long-term infrastructure planning
should identify residential areas where
septic systems may be failing and that
may be feasible for full piped servicing,
as funding and resources are available.
5.11.4. The City may investigate completing a
cumulative impact study regarding the
impact of septic systems in an area.
5.11.5.
Conversion of large parcels of land,
greater than 2 hectares (5 acres), that
are designated as Limited Services
Residential (LSR) to a more intense
land designation is discouraged unless
the following criteria are met:
a) Piped municipal servicing (water and
sewer) is extended to the lot;
b) A comprehensive Neighbourhood
Plan is submitted and adopted by
City Council, that includes:
i) A "Market Study" identifying the
market supply and demand for
the proposed land uses;
ii) Financial impact assessment
that analyzes the short (e.g.
5 year) and long-term (e.g.
25 years) financial impact of
the development on the City
and its infrastructure and
operating costs;
iii) Concept Plan identifying all
proposed land uses, roads,
parks, natural areas and other
proposed features;
iv) Technical studies as required by
the City, including, but not limited
to: storm water management
plan, environmental and
biophysical impact assessments,
geotechnical assessment, flood
hazard assessment and wildfire
risk assessment; and
v) Other materials or studies
required by the City to evaluate
the merits of the development
proposal.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
71
70
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
5.12 Business-Industrial (BI)
Introduction
The Business-Industrial (BI) land use consists
of a broad range of employment-generating
land uses, including light industrial and
automobile-oriented commercial uses and
may incorporate related institutional and
recreational uses.
Intent
The intent of the Business-Industrial (BI) land
use is to nurture a thriving local economy
by providing adequate current and future
land for employment-generating land
uses. Additionally, the intent is to plan for
commercial and industrial land uses in a
way that minimizes impacts on both the
businesses and adjacent land uses.
Applicability
The following objectives and policies apply to
lands identified as "Business-Industrial" on
Map 5: Land Use.
Objectives
Objective 65: To ensure the City has
an adequate supply of employment-
generating lands to continue to
strengthen and diversify the local
economy.
Objective 66: To create a business-
friendly environment in Castlegar that
allows for businesses to adapt to a
quickly changing economy.
Objective 67: To identify suitable
locations for Business-Industrial lands
that allow businesses to operate
unimpeded and minimize impacts to
adjacent land uses (e.g. residential).
Policies
5.12.1.
The following land uses are
appropriate in the Business-Industrial
(BI) land use area: light and medium
industrial uses, business and
commercial uses and complementary
institutional and recreational uses.
a) Land uses that have major off-site
impacts and/or pose a significant
risk to adjacent land uses (e.g.
lumber mill, fertilizer plant) shall be
considered heavy industrial and are
not permitted in this land use area.
b) Retail/commercial uses should
be limited to not detract from
the City's core commercial nodes
(e.g. Downtown).
c) Preferred retail uses include work-
live, artisan sales, small manufacturing
with a retail component and small-
scale retail that serves people working
in the area.
5.12.2. The City supports innovative
industrial development, such as data
centres, local artisan technology or
manufacturing, co-working creative/
maker spaces and work-live buildings.
5.12.3. The City shall maintain a 5-year supply
of vacant business-industrial land to
allow for continued economic growth
and available land to attract new
industries.
5.12.4. The City should ensure vacant
business-industrial lands have nearby
municipal servicing (water, sewer,
stormwater, roads) to minimize the
time needed to develop vacant lands.
5.12.5. The City may investigate opportunities
to provide incentives for attracting
businesses to Castlegar.
5.12.6. "Live-Work" Developments are
supported where they can be
appropriately located and designed to
be compatible with both residential
and non-residential land use.
5.12.7. Streetscapes in the Business-Industrial
(BI) area should incorporate safe
pedestrian and cycling facilities, such
as pathways, sidewalks, bike lanes,
bus stops, and associated bike parking
facilities.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
73
72
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
5.13 Heavy Industrial & Resource (HIR)
Introduction
The Heavy Industrial / Resource (HIR) land
use consists of the City's major industrial
developments (e.g. lumber mill, hydro
production) and may include other large
industrial developments in the future.
Intent
The intent of the Heavy Industrial / Resource
(HIR) land use is to ensure the City's heavy
industrial and resource-based activities are
able to function and operate while minimizing
any negative impacts to other land uses.
Applicability
The following objectives and policies apply
to lands identified as "Heavy Industrial /
Resource" on Map 5: Land Use.
Objectives
Objective 68: To enable heavy industrial
users to continue to operate and function
within the City without negatively
impacting adjacent land uses.
Objective 69: To identify suitable
locations for heavy industrial land uses.
Policies
5.13.1.
The following land uses are
appropriate in the Heavy Industrial
/ Resource (HI) land use area: light,
medium and heavy industrial uses;
business and commercial uses; and
resource extraction uses.
5.13.2. The City should work cooperatively
with heavy industry owners and/or
operators to:
a) Support continued operations and
economic vitality by cooperating on
any infrastructure challenges (e.g.
water, sewer, transportation, storm
water, transit);
b) Support continued reduction of
off-site impacts (e.g. noise, dust,
smell, pollution);
c) Discuss public communications
the City may require for its citizens
related to safety risks of living near
heavy industry; and
d) Discuss monitoring and reporting
of any environmental impacts to
local air or water quality that may
be important to City operations or
everyday life of City residents.
5.13.3. Heavy Industrial areas should be
buffered from adjacent land uses
through the use of parks, open spaces,
roads, or medium and light industrial
land uses.
5.13.4. The City may require the developer
requesting approval for a new or
expanded Heavy Industrial area
to provide a Risk Assessment in
accordance with the standards
established by the Major Industrial
Accidents Council of Canada
that includes:
a) Risk identification;
b) Probability of an industrial accident;
c) Consequences of an
industrial accident;
d) Emergency Management Plan; and
e) Risk management.
5.14 Airport (AIR)
Introduction
The Airport (AIR) land use consists of airport
lands and related industrial and commercial
uses associated with the West Kootenay
Regional Airport.
Intent
The intent of this area is to support the
continued use of these lands for airport-
related business and industrial activities.
Applicability
The following objectives and policies apply
to lands identified as "Airport" on Map 5:
Land Use.
Objectives
Objective 70: Continue to support the
Airport as an important business and
community asset.
5.14.1. The following land uses are
appropriate in the Airport (AIR)
land use area: airport and airside
developments; light and medium
industrial uses; business and
commercial uses, including casino and
gaming.
5.14.2. Work with the West Kootenay Regional
Airport to plan for future airport needs.
5.14.3. Ensure adequate infrastructure
capacity when considering
airport expansion.
5.14.4. Continue to support airport-related
industrial and commercial activities on
airport lands.
5.14.5. Encourage interesting building styles
that create a visually appealing airport
area including site design, landscaping
and green building technologies, such
as green roofs.
5.14.6. Work with the regional district, other
local communities and the "Castlegar
Chamber of Commerce" to promote
the City and region through the
growth of the airport area.
75
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
6.0 How We Connect
the Community
6.1 Introduction
The Community Land Use Policies are general
in nature and apply to the entire City of
Castlegar. Whereas the policies in previous
OCP sections are often specific to geographic
areas within the City, these policies apply to
the entire City based on broad topics such as
housing, parks and recreation, social, culture,
and the economy.
These policies apply to everyday decisions of
Council and City Administration, and to a lesser
extent will also guide and direct development
applications. In many cases these policies will
be used to support or direct specific projects,
strategies or initiatives.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
77
76
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
6.2 Arts & Culture
A vibrant arts and culture scene is an important
element to community building. Often
overlooked, arts and cultural experiences are
what many people consider when choosing
where to live. Castlegar has started to expand
this program by building on its popular
Sculpture Walk program and through support
of other arts and culture programs.
General
Objective 71: Continue to grow the City's
arts and culture community.
6.2.1.
Work to increase arts and cultural
investment through regular capital and
operating budgeting processes.
6.2.2.
Continue to support community-led
arts and culture programs, including
annual funding to assist groups in the
production and delivery of arts and
cultural activities.
6.2.3.
Work with Indigenous governments,
the School District, Kootenay Family
Place and other community-based
organizations to support and promote
opportunities for under-served
groups to participate in arts and
cultural activities.
6.2.4.
The City should collaborate with local
Indigenous Groups to incorporate and
develop cultural assets.
6.2.5.
Work with partners to establish
creative hubs that provide a range
of spaces and resources to support
artists, arts organizations and
cultural groups.
6.2.6.
Support collaboration with,
and between, arts and culture
organizations, businesses and
other agencies to increase
opportunities for working together
to share resources and build capacity
within organizations.
Community Public Arts
Objective 72: Ensure arts and culture
elements are a key part of the City's
infrastructure improvements.
6.2.7.
Integrate public art and public
realm improvement projects in the
development or renovation of civic
infrastructure, including streets,
buildings and parks.
Objective 73: Celebrate Indigenous
culture in partnership with local
Indigenous nations.
6.2.8.
Regularly seek opportunities to work
with local Indigenous artists.
6.2.9.
Partner with local Indigenous groups
to develop artistic and cultural projects
throughout the community.
Community Cultural
Programs
Objective 74: Support arts and culture.
6.2.10. Work with regional arts and cultural
organizations and artisans to support a
blend of cultural attractions, including
seasonal festivals and fairs.
6.2.11. Support the Downtown as the heart
of the City by hosting festivals and
special events in the Downtown and
at Kinsmen Park.
6.2.12. Pursue public and private partnerships
for community events and festivals,
cultural facility development and
cultural programs.
6.2.13. When considering expanding the
Castlegar & District Community
Complex, look for opportunities to
include space for arts and culture
programs that fit their needs, and
provide space for these organizations.
6.2.14. Support the growth and expansion
of museum and library programs and
facilities in the community.
Objective 75: Create inclusive spaces and
places throughout Castlegar.
6.2.15. Regularly partner with cultural groups
and organizations to increase the
visibility and recognition of the many
cultures and traditions within the City
and region.
Heritage
Objective 76: Establish tools to protect
heritage resources in the City.
6.2.16. Work with Indigenous nations to
identify culturally-significant places
and archaeological sites throughout
the community.
6.2.17. Maintain and enhance City-owned
heritage assets.
6.2.18. Develop a policy to protect sites of
high historical or archaeological value.
6.2.19. Recognize that Castlegar is made up
of several former communities and
develop a Heritage Conservation
Strategy that goes beyond the
Downtown and Downtown
Neighbourhood to include areas
throughout Castlegar.
6.2.20. Encourage the adaptive reuse of
heritage properties to include a
mixture of uses such as residential,
commercial, tourist commercial and
institutional.
Objective 77: Celebrate the City's
growing diversity.
6.2.21. Celebrate heritage in public spaces
where people can interact with it, for
example, in parks, at festivals or in
commercial areas.
6.2.22. Construct and install heritage signage
through the Wayfinding Strategy.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
79
78
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Your Way To 2033
Map 6:
COMMUNITY
AMENITIES
6.3 Community Amenities
(Parks, Recreation & Open Space)
General
Community amenities include parks,
recreation facilities, open space, public
space, and trails. These amenities are key to
providing a high-quality of life for residents
and visitors. Community Amenities are shown
on Map 6: Community Amenities Castlegar
has some fantastic community amenities, like
the Castlegar & District Community Complex
and Millennium Park & Ponds. Supporting
and expanding facilities and infrastructure
throughout the community will help support
active lifestyles throughout Castlegar. Ensuring
that everyone in the community has access to
community amenities is a priority of this Plan.
Objective 78: Expand and enhance
Castlegar's community amenities.
6.3.1.
Assist the Regional District, as needed,
with updating Castlegar, Areas I and J
Recreation & Culture Master Plan to
plan and identify community priorities
for implementation.
6.3.2.
The payment of cash in lieu for the
dedication of up to 5% of lands being
subdivided shall be at the discretion of
the City.
6.3.3.
The City should continue to manage
assets through its Asset Management
Plan that includes a maintenance and
monitoring program for all parks, open
spaces and recreation amenities.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
81
80
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Objective 79: Reduce barriers to access
for community amenities.
6.3.4.
All new and renovations to parks,
open spaces, and recreation amenities
shall be designed to a universal access
design standard.
6.3.5.
Work with Indigenous nations, the
School District, Kootenay Family
Place, and other community-based
organizations to support and promote
opportunities for under-served groups
to participate in recreation activities.
6.3.6.
Continue to deliver safe and enjoyable
recreation and wellness programs
and opportunities for residents of
all ages, abilities, interests and levels
of mobility.
6.3.7.
Monitor the community's recreation
needs and assets to ensure that
recreation programming and
infrastructure continue to meet the
needs of residents, and collaborate on
updates to the Castlegar, Areas I and J
Recreation & Culture Master Plan.
6.3.8.
The City should improve signage and
wayfinding for its parks, recreation and
trail system.
Parks
Objective 80: Add and expand parks in
new and existing neighbourhoods
6.3.9.
Prioritize new playgrounds, parks
and recreation facilities in or near
Neighbourhood Nodes and central
locations within new neighbourhoods.
6.3.10. Support a diverse range of recreation
amenities (e.g. sports courts, sports
fields, skills parks, playgrounds) to
serve the needs of existing residents
and attract new ones.
6.3.11. Naturalized parks and play
structures are encouraged in all
park development to symbolize the
community's important connection
with its beautiful natural setting.
6.3.12. The City should plan for a warmer
future by exploring options to upgrade
parks, recreation equipment and
facilities and incorporate more shade
and provide water in all parks, where
feasible.
6.3.13. All development applications over 1.0
hectare, require a "Master Plan" and
shall include public park, open space
and/or trails as outlined in Map 6:
Community Amenities
6.3.14. Development applications for "Master
Planned Parcels" greater than 4
hectares (10 acres) shall include a
minimum of 5% of the land dedicated
to parks and open space.
Recreation Facilities
Objective 81: Manage existing facilities
and plan for future recreation needs with
a consideration to long-term capital
maintenance.
6.3.15. Include lifecycle capital planning as a
key component of an Castlegar, Areas I
and J Recreation & Culture Master Plan.
6.3.16. Investigate creating an "Amenity
Cost Charges (ACC)" Bylaw to
ensure transparent and equitable
contributions for amenities
from developers..
6.3.17. Use high-quality design practices
when designing and constructing
new recreation facilities to ensure the
building is loved for generations.
6.3.18. Developments shall link facilities
together with a well-connected
non-motorized mobility network and
public transit.
6.3.19. Manage existing facilities to
incorporate upgrades that maintain
safety, enhance accessibility, support
ongoing relevance, are adaptable in
use over time, consider future energy-
efficiency improvements and lengthen
the lifespan of the facility.
6.3.20. Recognize the importance of schools
and other institutional lands that
provide valuable recreation space in
Castlegar, and work with institutions
to include these lands in future
recreation and culture planning.
6.3.21. When considering expanding the
Castlegar & District Community
Complex, look for opportunities to
include space for arts and culture
programs that fit their needs and
provide space for these organizations.
6.3.22. Prioritize multi-use facilities that
support a diverse range of recreation
and wellness programs and services,
including arts, culture, food and
recreation programs.
6.3.23. Prioritize facilities that support year-
round use in all seasons.
6.3.24. Ensure facilities offer programming
and services for marginalized
populations such as seniors and youth.
Objective 82: Facilities as supportive
infrastructure for climate change
adaptation.
6.3.25. Public spaces and community facilities
should consider future needs as a
result of climate change, and how they
can help the community during times
of stress. These may include:
a) Refuge space from heat waves,
wildfire smoke, power outages and
other similar circumstances; and
b) Shared outdoor public spaces.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
83
82
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Open Space
Objective 83: Provide open space as
natural recreation areas that are a part
of the community's parks and recreation
network.
6.3.26. Open spaces are identified in
Map 6: Community Amenities as
areas identified for environmental
preservation and recreation use.
6.3.27. Minimize "Disturbance" of
infrastructure like trails, trailheads and
"Low-Impact Recreation Uses".
6.3.28. Work with recreation users,
organizations and land-owners to
identify important open space areas,
with a long-term goal of preservation
or dedication as public open space.
6.3.29. Work with recreation user groups,
land-owners and "Recreation Sites
and Trails BC" to formalize informal
trails on private property to maintain
public access to recreation areas
through private lands.
Public Space
Objective 84: Prioritize placemaking to
support vibrant public spaces.
6.3.30. Public space should be included in an
inventory and prioritized as a part of
its park types.
6.3.31. Prioritize pedestrians in public space
by lowering vehicle speeds and closing
roads for community functions.
6.3.32. Require public space improvements
for "Major Development" applications
in all nodes identified in Map 6:
Community Amenities.
Objective 85: Create safe, equitable, and
inclusive public spaces where everyone
can be present without discrimination or
harassment.
6.3.33. Apply an equity and inclusion lens to
assessing "Crime Prevention through
Environmental Design (CPTED)" and
consider the needs of users from all
backgrounds to prevent exclusionary
and discriminatory practices when
assessing and enhancing public safety
and security.
6.3.34. Integrate features in public spaces
that promote a welcoming sense of
comfort, enjoyment and protection
for all, including marginalized and
vulnerable populations.
Trails
Trails are essential to connect the community
with desirable destinations throughout
Castlegar without requiring a car. This supports
other Community Plan goals such as creating
a healthier, better-connected community and
reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Trails
provide access to parks and recreation facilities
and connect the community to the broader
regional trail network, used by many for
recreation.
Objective 86: Create a connected trail
network.
6.3.35. Create a linked system of trails and
bike lanes as identified in Map 6:
Community Amenities.
6.3.36. Developers should contribute trails
where identified in this OCP and
meet the standards prescribed in the
appropriate City plan, policy or bylaw
(e.g. "Parks & Recreation Master Plan")
6.3.37. Work with the Regional District and
"Recreation Sites and Trails BC" to
collaborate on access to regional
trails and environmentally sensitive
lands, enabling a safe level of use that
will not degrade the environment or
the experience.
6.3.38. The City should prioritize creating trail
loops and connections to other active
transportation features, rather than
out-and-back trails, to ensure a well-
connected trail system.
6.3.39. Work with regional recreation groups
and landowners to formalize trail
connections to key external sites
(e.g. Merry Creek Recreation Site,
Zuckerberg Island, climbing areas).
Objective 87: Manage trails with long-
term sustainability and climate change
adaptation in mind.
6.3.40. Balance trail expansion and
management, with the desire and
need for enjoyment and active
lifestyles, while managing detrimental
impacts on natural areas, waterways,
sensitive habitats, tree health, steep
slopes and vegetation.
6.3.41. Site and design recreational trails to
support multiple objectives, including
hazard mitigation (e.g., wildfire breaks,
flood protection), emergency access
routes and maintenance access.
Objective 88: Support community
involvement in trail management and
development.
6.3.42. Enhance trail stewardship through
strong partnership relations among
all trail users, clubs, volunteers,
Indigenous nations and other levels
of government. Pursue actions to
improve responsibility and reduce
conflicts among trail users.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
85
84
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Your Way To 2033
Introduction
A strong local economy is a priority for the City
of Castlegar. The City is a regional shopping
and economic anchor, providing the necessary
jobs and a wide-variety of goods and services
to support a thriving City and region. Economic
Development Lands and Facilities are
identified on Map 7: Economic Development
& Tourism.
Major retail brands and corporations have
chosen to open in Castlegar and this draws
regional residents to the City to work and
shop. A healthy economy contributes to
a stable financial outlook for the City and
requires a diversity of economic activity,
including large and small commercial
and industrial businesses. Transportation
networks, highways and the West Kootenay
Regional Airport provide the supportive
infrastructure to assist and grow the
Castlegar and area economy. Planning for a
growing economy should include providing
the necessary infrastructure for business
growth as well as attraction and retention of
businesses.
This Plan addresses economic development in
numerous ways, including:
x
Identifying growth areas in
the Downtown, Uptown, and
Columbia Avenue Corridor and
increasing the opportunities for
mixed-use developments;
x
Increasing placemaking in key areas
through development permit areas;
x
Maintaining support for heavy industrial
development;
x
Looking for opportunities for growth in
and around the West Kootenay Regional
Airport; and
x
Supporting the continued infill and
develop of identified business-industrial
areas.
Furthermore, the Castlegar & District
Economic Development Strategy identified
six goals, which are addressed in various ways
in this Plan:
1. Grow Forestry as our Economic Driver.
2. Diversify the Economy via Technology,
Creative Industries, Professional Services,
and Tourism.
3. Conduct a Business Retention and
Expansion Program to Support Local
Business Growth.
4. Innovate Housing to Attract and
Retain Talent/Workforce.
5. Enable Industry Sector Development.
6. Establish a Sustainable Castlegar and
District Organization and Funding Model
for Economic Development.
6.4 Economic
Development
Map 7:
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
& TOURISM
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
87
86
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Economic Development
Objective 89: Support business retention
and expansion and make new business
development easier.
6.4.1.
Streamline and simplify the
Development Approvals process.
6.4.2.
Explore the feasibility of moving the
Development Approvals process
to an online submission through
development approval software.
6.4.3.
Complete a comparative review
of business costs to ensure that
rates are competitive with other
regional jurisdictions.
6.4.4. Review and update DCCs every five
(5) years, and involve input from
stakeholders and the public.
6.4.5.
Develop a Local Business Retention
and Expansion Program, including but
not limited to:
a) Small and/or shared spaces;
b) Work-live and other
mixed-use buildings;
c)
Permissions for pop-ups (tents/
trailers) and other temporary
structures on vacant lands;
d) Accessory commercial units;
e) Incubator spaces;
f)
Market space;
g) Creation of an open streets policy
for private sector use of sidewalk
spaces; and
h) Changes to the Zoning Bylaw,
such as greater site coverage,
more permitted uses, reduced
parking standards and smaller
parcel minimums.
Objective 90: Support innovation and
technology.
6.4.6. Build robust connectivity to expand
technology-led development by
prioritizing the Downtown as a fiber
optic infrastructure area, followed by
Uptown and Selkirk College.
6.4.7.
Promote and support equitable and
affordable access to the internet for all
parts of the community.
6.4.8. The City should continue to pursue
opportunities to enhance access to
high-speed internet for its citizens,
businesses and institutions.
Objective 91: Understand existing
commercial and industrial needs and
increase capacity for future business
growth.
6.4.9. Complete an Industrial Land Inventory
to ensure there is land available to
grow industrial and service businesses.
6.4.10. Maintain an adequate supply of
appropriately zoned land to support
existing business expansion and new
business operations.
6.4.11. Work with the Chamber of Commerce
to identify key business needs and
partner to develop programs to
address needs.
Objective 92: Support home-based
businesses.
6.4.12. Encourage communication providers
to offer the necessary technology and
services for home-based businesses,
remote technology work or distributed
business models to thrive in Castlegar.
6.4.13. Support flexible zoning regulations for
home-based businesses.
Tourism
6.4.14. Support compatible tourism growth
that aligns with community culture
and values.
6.4.15. Promote the development of
"community gateways" on Columbia
Ave. and Highway 3 to create a sense
of arrival for visitors.
6.4.16. Support tourism opportunities that
can be combined with learning and
education opportunities.
6.4.17. Partner with local Indigenous nations
and the regional district on tourism
development in the area.
6.4.18. Support and encourage agriculture,
agritourism, and value-added
enterprises as a vital contributor to the
local and regional economy.
6.4.19. Partner with other organizations
on comprehensive destination
development plans and include
investment in visitor-facing
infrastructure, capitalizing on leisure,
sport, eco-tourism and business
tourism opportunities throughout
the community.
6.4.20. The City should partner with
neighbouring communities to
promote non-motorized community
to community tourism opportunities
(canoeing/kayaking, biking, etc.).
Sand & Gravel Reserves
Provincial legislation requires Official
Community Plans to identify the approximate
location of their sand and gravel deposits that
are suitable for future extraction.
There are currently no active sand and gravel
operations within the City as previous pits
have been exhausted. There are active pits
outside the City.
Objective 93: Ensure that sand and gravel
extraction has no negative impacts on
human or environmental health.
6.4.21. No sand and gravel reserves have been
identified in this Plan. Sand and gravel
extraction activities will be directed to
sites outside of City boundaries.
6.4.22. Where possible, sand and gravel
extraction should be discouraged
within the City boundaries; however, if
extraction does occur, any extraction
activities shall:
a) Avoid environmentally sensitive
areas;
b) Ensure adequate setbacks to
residential, institutional, community
and commercial use areas;
c)
Minimize negative impacts from
truck traffic; and
d) Remediate the site when extraction
is completed;
e) Require sand and gravel operations
to use best management practices
to reduce impacts on neighbouring
properties and along truck
routes; and
f)
Use preventative measures such
as controlling hours of operation,
dispersion of dust, access and
screening.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
89
88
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
6.5 Governance
Building Relationships
The City strongly believes in building and
nurturing relationships with citizens,
businesses, the Regional District, external and
provincial agencies and Indigenous nations
and communities. Many of today's critical
issues, such as climate change, housing,
economic prosperity and health, require
solutions that go beyond the boundaries and
jurisdiction of the City. It is through trusted
relationships with the City's partners that
these issues can be tackled in a holistic way.
Informed Decision-Making
Objective 94: Continually monitor and
track the effectiveness of the Community
Plan.
6.5.1.
The City will monitor the Community
Plan implementation targets annually
and report to Council and the public
on the progress towards the targets.
6.5.2.
A review of the OCP should be
undertaken no later than 2028 so that
the goals, policy directions, processes,
and actions reflect current growth
forecasts, market trends, overall
community values and the City's
financial capacity.
External Relationships
6.5.3.
City Administration shall be guided by
the goals, policies, and implementation
targets identified in the OCP in making
recommendations to Council.
6.5.4.
Work with the Regional District
and local Indigenous nations to
complete an Archaeological Overview
Assessment to understand the
historical archaeological impacts to
inform future decision-making.
6.5.5.
Work with the Regional District
and local Indigenous nations to
develop an Environmental Overview
Assessment or "Landscape &
Ecosystem Inventory" to understand
ecological considerations for
future decision-making.
6.5.6.
Investigate a strategy to address the
South Replot Area and determine if
there is development potential on
those lands and the steps required
to using that land to its highest
and best use for both the City and
its landowners.
Indigenous Reconciliation
Objective 95: Acknowledge that ongoing
planning and land development occurs on
Indigenous lands.
6.5.7.
Identify a referral process with
local Indigenous communities to
ensure that land use planning and
development decision-making
includes an Indigenous perspective.
6.5.8.
Ensure approval by Indigenous
governments prior to starting any
public process or project on City-
owned lands.
6.5.9.
Partner with Indigenous nations to
increase their visible presence and
recognize their traditional territories
through a variety of projects,
including signage, place-naming, art,
incorporation of Indigenous languages
into public spaces, communications
materials and other ideas.
Objective 96: Maintain and strengthen
respectful relations with Indigenous
governments.
6.5.10. Recognize and acknowledge the
traditional territories of Indigenous
nations at the start of public meetings
and events.
6.5.11. Work with local Indigenous
nations by acting in a transparent,
respectful, solutions-oriented
approach to nurture trust and build
strong relationships
Objective 97: Use education and
awareness to create an inclusive
community that supports the well-being
of all community members of diverse
cultural backgrounds.
6.5.12. Encourage and support the inclusion
of the "hard to reach" people
with diverse incomes, ages and
cultures during public engagement
activities and on local committees
and commissions.
6.5.13. Strengthen connections between the
City and the "hard to reach" members
of the community, such as local not-
for-profit organizations, cultural
organizations and Indigenous nations.
6.5.14. Continue to collaborate with
Indigenous governments on projects
of mutual environmental, economic,
social, and cultural interest on their
traditional territories.
Communication &
Engagement with Citizens
Objective 98: Enhance communications
with the community.
Objective 99: Gather information to
improve our understanding of our
community.
6.5.15. Continue to monitor the quantity
and quality of communications
through the City's website and social
media channels.
Objective 100: Broaden communications
with the "hard to reach" groups within
the community.
6.5.16. When seeking input from the
community, "go to where they are" by
taking engagement directly to different
groups to ensure that opportunities
for feedback are available to all
members of the community regardless
of language, culture, age, income
or schedule.
6.5.17.
Actively seek input from children, youth
and their families and incorporate
their voices into the development of
City initiatives, programs, planning and
policies that serve and affect them.
6.5.18. Throughout engagement and post-
engagement, follow up with "hard
to reach" groups to assess the
effectiveness of communication
strategies used throughout the project/
campaign, and integrate their feedback
to improve future communication.
Objective 101: Create accessible, safe
spaces for community dialogue and
feedback.
6.5.19. Continue to provide accessible
meeting space for in person
Council and Committee meetings
as well as access to online live
streamed and recorded options with
closed captioning.
6.5.20. Ensure that online communications
are adapted to reduce barriers
for a range of audio-visual
accessibility needs.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
91
90
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Your Way To 2033
Housing is a core human right, and the City is
committed to diversifying the types of housing
provided within the City. The City is taking a
broad approach to the provision of housing
by considering the entire housing wheel (See
Figure 4). This includes supporting and leading
various housing projects and enabling a wider
spectrum of market housing to meet the
City's core need for studio, 1-bedroom and
2-bedroom units as identified by the Housing
Needs Assessment.
General
Objective 102: Build compassion for
those experiencing housing issues and
homelessness.
6.6.1.
Create a public education campaign to
combat the stigma in housing.
6.6.2.
Support agencies that provide the
unhoused with safe spaces (e.g.
housing, lighting, access to public
washrooms, garbage pickup, etc.).
6.6.3.
Create a homeless shelter and mixed-
use affordable housing options for
low-income individuals.
Figure 6: Showing 2022 Housing Applications and Infill Potential
This is a high-level mapping exercise for discussion and reference only. Each application will need to be ground-truthed for the property.
This is not authorizing infill on identified properties, but is identifying the overall fact that there are opportunities to add density in existing
neighbourhods.
6.6 Housing
Map 8:
HOUSING & INFILL
POTENTIAL
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
93
92
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Objective 103: Strive to provide every
citizen with secure and affordable
housing.
6.6.4. Implement the recommendations
within the latest Housing Strategy.
a) Continue to collect and review
housing data to ensure that the City
is responding to immediate housing
needs by:
i) Collecting housing and
homelessness data;
ii) Reviewing development permit
and building permit applications
to ensure that incentives are
effective in building the housing
Castlegar needs;
iii) Identifying properties that may
be important for the City to
purchase to build affordable
housing in areas of need, should
they become available;
iv) Reporting back to the
community annually on housing
and homelessness.
6.6.5.
Work with BC Transit to coordinate
transit routes that can support low-
income households, so they can get
by without the use of a vehicle for
daily activities.
6.6.6. Access external supports such as
Columbia Basin Trust and BC Housing
to secure funding and resources for
affordable housing initiatives.
6.6.7.
Support development applications
that address affordable housing and
integrate it into the neighbourhood by
including other community services
such as child / elder care spaces,
health services, educational programs,
recreation programs, and health and
social supportive programs.
Objective 104: Reduce permitting
costs and improve the efficiency of
development approvals
6.6.8.
Reduce Parking Requirements in the
Zoning Bylaw to reduce the overall
cost to construct housing.
Housing Diversity / Choice
Objective 105: Prioritize infill
and intensification of existing
neighbourhoods to provide a diversity of
housing units.
6.6.9.
Allow a minimum of three units on all
residential lots.
6.6.10. Allow a minimum of four (4) units on
all residential lots in the City greater
than 280 m2.
6.6.11. Develop and promote a "Housing
Conversion Program" and guidebook
to infill single-detached dwellings with
"Duplex", "Triplex" and "Fourplex"
dwelling units.
6.6.12. Create an "Accessory Dwelling Unit
(ADU)" program and guidebook
to incentivize the infill of existing
neighbourhoods with ADUs.
6.6.13. Encourage development of affordable,
supportive seniors housing that
provides adequate care, nutrition,
safety and socialization.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
95
94
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
X
Not Permitted
Permitted without exception
? ADUs are permitted where there is an existing single-detachd dwelling.
Based on compliance with OCP and Zoning criteria | Council Rezoning Approval May Be Required
ADU
Accessory Dwelling Unit means a suite in a home (e.g. basement) or in a detached building, such as above a garage.
Table 6: Housing Diversity Implementation
Type
Single-Detached Dwelling
Basement Suite
Single-Detatched Dwelling
Duplex B
Duplex A
Basement Suite
Carriage Cottage Suite B
Single-Detached Dwelling
Carriage Cottage Suite A
Basement Suite A
Duplex B
Duplex A
Basement Suite B
Fourplex C
Fourplex B
Fourplex A
Fourplex D
Unit 3
Unit 2
Unit 1
Unit 4
Unit 5
Unit 6
Unit 9
Unit 10
Unit 7
Unit 8
Unit 3
Unit 2
Unit 1
Unit 4
Unit 5
Unit 6
Unit 9
Unit 10
Unit 7
Unit 8
Housing Units
1
2
2 / 3
4
4
4
4-8
8-12
12+
Housing Styles
Single-
detached
Single
with 1 ADU
or Duplex
Duplex or
Single with
2 ADUs
Single with 3
ADUs
Duplex with
2 ADUs
Fourplex
Townhouse /
Apartment
Multi-Unit
(Apartment-
Type)
Multi-Unit
(Apartment-
Type)
Land Use
LSR
Limited Service
Residential
See Section 5.11
X
X
X
X
X
X
RN
Residential
Neighbourhood
See Section 5.9
min 280m2 lot
min 280m2 lot
min 280m2 lot
DN
Downtown
Neighbourhood
See Section 5.10
min 280m2 lot
min 280m2 lot
min 280m2 lot
DT
Downtown
See Section 5.6
X
No new
single-detached
units
?
ADUs permitted on
existing singles
?
ADUs permitted on
existing singles
?
ADUs permitted on
existing singles
UMU&
CAC
Uptown Mixed-
Use & Columbia
Ave Corridor
See Section 5.7 &
5.8
X
No new
single-detached.
Min 4 units & 60 UPH
X
No new
single-detached.
Min 4 units & 60 UPH
X
No new
single-detached.
Min 4 units & 60 UPH
No new
single-detached.
Min 4 units & 60 UPH
Min 4 units & 60 UPH
Min 4 units & 60 UPH
CPA
Comprehensive
Planning Area
See Section 5.5
Disclaimer: The above table is a graphic summary of the policies in the Plan.
The policies prevail if there is a conflict between this table and the policies.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
97
96
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Affordable Housing
Policies (Municipally-Led +
Developer Incentives)
Objective 106: Ensure the City has
sufficient financial resources to support
Castlegar's housing needs.
6.6.14. Develop a policy to require a
percentage of affordable housing for
all major development applications
that includes:
a) A minimum percentage of affordable
housing; and
b) A "Cash in Lieu" policy that helps to
finance the Housing Reserve Fund
and can be put towards municipally-
led housing projects.
6.6.15. Create a Housing Reserve Fund.
6.6.16. Develop an incentive program for
development projects that include
affordable housing such as:
a) Density bonusing;
b) Transfer of development rights;
c)
Tax incremental financing; and
d) Reduction of development fees
or charges.
Objective 107: Lead the way on
developing affordable housing.
6.6.17. Maintain the Municipal Land Inventory
mapping to help identify suitable
municipally-owned properties to build
affordable housing on.
6.6.18. Develop a land acquisition and funding
strategy to acquire sites for affordable
and supportive housing.
Objective 108: Use tools to support the
retention of existing affordable housing
in the community.
6.6.19. Continue to implement and monitor
the effectiveness of the Housing
Strategy.
6.6.20. Continue to monitor and amend the
Zoning Bylaw, as needed to ensure it
is responsive to housing needs.
6.6.21. Manage the impacts of short-term
rentals on rental housing stock
through the business license system.
6.6.22. Consider use of "Residential Rental
Tenure Zoning (RRTZ)" to secure a
portion or 100% of new residential
development on selected sites for
rental housing.
6.6.23. Restrict strata conversion of existing
residential rental buildings of four or
more units when the rental vacancy
rate falls below 3% in the city.
6.6.24. Require tenant relocation plans
as a condition of rezoning or
redevelopment of existing mobile
home parks and "Purpose-Built
Rental Housing" buildings of four or
more units.
6.6.25. Encourage retention or replacement of
existing rental units as redevelopment
occurs through tools that include
rental only zoning and rental
replacement obligations, housing
agreements or an equivalent cash-
in-lieu contribution made to the City's
Housing Reserve Fund.
Emergency Housing Needs
Objective 109: Establish emergency
housing to support those with immediate
needs for housing.
6.6.26. Develop an emergency housing
program to provide immediate
housing to those facing a housing
emergency.
6.6.27. Support emergency housing for those
with immediate housing needs.
6.6.28. Support development of
accommodation and housing
options to rapidly re-house those
experiencing homelessness including
shelters, "Transitional Housing" and
"Supportive Housing".
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
99
98
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Your Way To 2033
City infrastructure and servicing, such as clean
water, a sewer system, safe roads, sidewalks
and waste pickup are core services that
contribute to the quality of life for citizens.
These key municipal services (and many others)
require extensive and complex infrastructure
and servicing systems that are often out of
sight and out of mind. Yet, proper planning of
infrastructure and servicing systems is a key
contributor to keeping taxes (and the cost of
living) affordable for residents of Castlegar.
General
Objective 110: Direct growth to existing
neighbourhoods to reduce long-term
infrastructure costs.
6.7.1.
Prohibit development in areas
with capacity restrictions of sewer,
water, drainage or transportation
infrastructure until there is confirmed
funding and plans to address
capacity shortfalls.
6.7.2.
Investigate and apply current
climate science to ensure
infrastructure resilience through
life cycle financial planning, and
sustainable maintenance.
6.7.3.
Make land use, planning and capital
investment decisions with a long-
term life cycle asset management
perspective for the design,
maintenance and renewal of servicing
infrastructure, including natural assets.
6.7.4.
Consider mitigation of air, noise,
and light pollution associated with
the provision of City infrastructure
including parks, buildings, and facilities.
6.7.5.
Future growth shall be directed to
areas that can be fully serviced with
municipal piped water and sewer
services, with highest priority on in-
filling existing developed areas where
water and sewer capacity is available.
6.7.6.
A financial plan and associated
budgeting will be prepared for the
potential future need for a water
treatment system expansion.
6.7.7.
Require that development pays
its fair share of on-site and off-
site infrastructure costs through
compliance with servicing and
development cost charge bylaws.
6.7.8.
New developments will be required to
connect to community sewer and water
within the "Urban Service Area (USA)"
shown on Map 9: Infrastructure.
Objective 111: Ensure that other
policies and bylaws are aligned with the
Community Plan to reduce barriers to
development.
6.7.9.
Update the Zoning Bylaw to align with
policies in this OCP.
6.7.10. Review the Subdivision and
Development Servicing Bylaw to
ensure it aligns with the OCP and
updated Zoning Bylaw.
6.7.11.
Review the Building Bylaw to ensure
it incorporates modern sustainable
development standards and targets for
new housing.
6.7.12.
Review the Development Cost Charge
Bylaw to ensure that development pays
for the infrastructure it will use over the
lifecycle of the development proposal.
6.7 Infrastructure &
Servicing
Map 9:
INFRASTRUCTURE
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
101
100
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
6.7.13. Use the "Community Lifecycle
Infrastructure Cost (CLIC)" Tool to
asses lifecycle costs and cost recovery
on all major development applications.
6.7.14. Ensure the City's Integrated
Infrastructure Capital Plan for
water, sewer, stormwater and
roads is updated to plan for
infrastructure replacement, coordinate
replacement with other infrastructure
improvements (road paving,
development, etc.) and integrate into
capital budget planning.
Water
Objective 112: Protect Castlegar's water
quality.
6.7.15. Require all new developments within
the "Urban Service Area (USA)" to be
connected to the City's water system.
6.7.16. The City shall ensure that all
developments are provided with a
safe and healthy supply of water.
6.7.17. Continue to participate in planning and
monitoring land and water use in the
region in conjunction with the other
major water users and license holders
to ensure the long-term sustainable
use and protection of its water source.
Objective 113: Reduce Castlegar's water
use.
6.7.18. Plan for resilience to drought,
floods, aging infrastructure and
potential contamination across the
City's water supply, treatment and
distribution systems.
Objective 114: Protect Castlegar's
watershed and aquifer water sources.
6.7.19. Continue to implement the
recommendations in the Castlegar
Source Assessment Report.
6.7.20. Explore a secondary drinking water
source for the City.
Objective 115: Continue to implement the
recommendations of the 2014 Source
Assessment Report
6.7.21. Protect the quality and quantity of
the City's water wells through any
or all available legislative means (e.g.
OCP policy, zoning, setbacks, park
dedication, easements, land purchases).
6.7.22. Collaborate with the Province and
stakeholders, as needed, to protect
the City's groundwater resources
from inappropriate development or
contamination from land use activities,
and to promote the sustainability of
Castlegar's aquifers.
6.7.23. Investigate opportunities to reduce the
number of private water wells within
City limits and connect properties to
the municipal water system.
6.7.24. The City will not service areas outside
the City's municipal boundary with
municipal water.
Sanitary
Objective 116: Ensure adequate future
capacity for treatment of liquid waste.
6.7.25. Future growth shall be directed to
areas that can be fully serviced with
municipal piped sewer services, with
highest priority on infilling existing
vacant land where water capacity is
available.
6.7.26. Require all new developments within
the "Urban Service Area (USA)" to be
connected to the City's sewer system.
6.7.27. Support and implement the Castlegar
Liquid Waste Management
Plan (In-Progress).
6.7.28. Work with the Regional District to
provide adequate sani-dump facilities.
6.7.29. The City will not service areas outside
the City's municipal boundary with the
municipal sanitary system.
Stormwater
Objective 117: Reduce the quantity and
improve the quality of stormwater
flowing untreated into our watershed.
6.7.30. Consider amending the Zoning Bylaw
and the Subdivision and Development
Servicing Bylaw to minimize
"Impervious Surfaces" at the time of
development.
6.7.31.
Conserve natural systems as part of the
"natural sponge" to not only decrease
and manage stormwater volume but
to improve quality through filtering and
absorption.
6.7.32. Prioritize more detailed study of
groundwater protection actions for well
recharge areas, wetlands, and areas of
high aquifer vulnerability including, but
not limited to:
a) Establishing a watershed/aquifer
protection zone;
b) Establishing a groundwater protection
development permit area; and
c)
Limiting impermeable site coverage in
the "Zoning Bylaw."
6.7.33. Prepare a storm water management
master plan, that addresses future
growth and the likely increase in
development and impermeable surfaces
within the City.
6.7.34. Preparation of a site-specific
stormwater management plan
shall be undertaken by a "Qualified
Environmental Professional (QEP)" or
related professional.
6.7.35. Implement stormwater best
management practices such as
absorbent landscapes, infiltration
swales, filtering & oil separation,
rain gardens and pervious paving to
minimize runoff and increase on-site
retention and infiltration.
6.7.36. Include maximum impervious cover
regulations in the "Zoning Bylaw."
6.7.37. The site-specific stormwater
management plan shall be designed
to manage sediment and run-off
during construction.
6.7.38. Stormwater shall be managed on-site
during and after the construction period
in order to ensure water quality and
quantity.
6.7.39. Post-development flows shall not
exceed pre-development flows into
watercourses and such requirement
shall be demonstrated in the site-
specific stormwater management plan.
6.7.40. Maintain watercourses used for
storm drainage in a natural state and
daylighted and/or add fish passage
designs to culverts where practical.
6.7.41. Develop a Stormwater Management
Policy, along with engineering standards
and specifications for stormwater
management, to support the goals and
desired outcomes.
6.7.42. Work with the Regional District
and MOTI regarding stormwater
management planning where drainage
basins cross jurisdictional boundaries.
6.7.43. Acknowledge that overland flooding
resulting from heavy rainfall may
increase with climate change and
seek to identify, enhance and establish
overland flood paths, drainage basins
and protected rights-of-ways on private
property to reduce potential impacts.
6.7.44. Integrate "Natural Assets" in
stormwater management and support
the protection, enhancement and
maintenance of their function.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
103
102
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Waste Management
Objective 118: Reduce waste sent to
landfill.
6.7.45. The City must consider solid waste
management capacity, liability and
serviceability during its "Boundary
Expansion Study" and "Infill strategy. "
6.7.46. In partnership with the Regional
District, develop a "Solid Waste
Management Plan."
6.7.47. Support eliminating organic matter
sent to the Regional Landfill by 2033.
6.7.48. The City supports ongoing initiatives
that will provide for effective and
responsible solid waste management
of recyclables, compostables and
garbage through programs, education,
services, policies and guidelines.
6.7.49. Encourage the adaptive reuse
of buildings to help reduce
construction waste.
6.7.50. Support local material bans that
align with regional, provincial and
federal initiatives.
6.7.51. Encourage the use of natural and
reused materials and support
circular businesses.
6.7.52. The City should work with
professional biologists and waste
management experts to implement
best practices in solid waste
management to prevent problems
with wildlife.
6.7.53. The City should adopt a "Wildsafe"
program that combines public
information campaigns with
household and municipal-level
actions.
6.7.54. Provide recycling drop-off areas
that are accessible to all residents
throughout the community.
Internet Service
Objective 119: Advocate for all residents
to have access to fast, reliable internet.
6.7.55. Investigate opportunities to improve
access to high-speed internet for
citizens to access information and to
better support local and home-based
businesses.
6.7.56. Work with local suppliers and funding
bodies to provide all residents with
access to high-speed gigabit internet.
Electrical
Objective 120: Make our electrical
infrastructure more resilient.
6.7.57. Require that electrical lines are
buried underground as a condition
for approval on all new major
development applications.
6.7.58. Bury all electrical lines in
the Downtown.
6.7.59. Reduce our energy use by converting
City-owned infrastructure to lower
energy appliances and fixtures.
6.7.60. Reduce our energy use by requiring
all new developments to meet "Step
Code 5" by 2030.
6.8 Institutional
General
Objective 121: Plan for future institutional
uses to support the Community
Evolution Strategy.
6.8.1.
Work collaboratively with government,
private or non-governmental
organizations and agencies on the
strategic location and design of new
institutional developments to support
alignment with the Community
Evolution Strategy, vision and policies
of this Plan.
6.8.2.
The City should locate new public
buildings in the "Downtown" and
"Uptown" areas.
6.8.3.
New public or institutional uses
should be strategically located within
close proximity of Columbia Avenue
to ensure easy and safe access by
walking or cycling for the majority of
City residents.
6.8.4. The City should prioritize active
mobility infrastructure (pathways,
sidewalks) and associated snow
clearing to public and institutional
buildings and uses.
6.8.5.
Work with community partners to
coordinate communication to increase
public awareness of existing and
planned programs, services, facilities,
amenities and infrastructure.
Schools
Objective 122: Create safe, walkable,
accessible schools for all residents.
6.8.6.
Work with School District 20 to plan
future school needs and locations to
support the Community Evolution
Strategy, and locate schools in
locations that provide safe, accessible
non-motorized use for all Castlegar
residents.
6.8.7.
Work with School District 20 to
ensure:
a) Traffic safety is addressed by
coordinating parking and movement
of vehicles during drop-off and pick-
up times in and around schools; and
b) School parks and playgrounds are
integrated as a part of the City's
Community Amenities network.
6.8.8.
Partner with local schools to engage
youth throughout the community on
important community initiatives.
6.8.9.
The City will work towards the goal of
having sidewalks on both sides of the
street for all streets within 300m of a
school.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
105
104
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Municipal Buildings and
Lands
Objective 123: Lead the way on quality
and sustainable design.
6.8.10. Construct all new municipal buildings
to a high-quality that incorporates
good urban design principles,
architecture, energy-efficient design
and sustainable landscape design best
practices.
6.8.11. Incorporate stormwater management
best practices into all landscape
designs on municipal lands.
6.8.12. Enhance public space and
placemaking on municipal lands.
6.8.13. Apply an equity and inclusion lens to
assessing "Crime Prevention through
Environmental Design (CPTED)" and
consider the needs of users from all
backgrounds to prevent exclusionary
and discriminatory practices when
assessing and enhancing public safety
and security.
6.8.14. Integrate features in public spaces
that promote a welcoming sense of
comfort, enjoyment and protection
for all, including marginalized and
vulnerable populations.
6.8.15. When designing public spaces and
community facilities, consider climate
adaptation measures including:
a) Refuge space from heat waves,
wildfire smoke, power outages and
other similar circumstances;
b) Cool and clean air refuges; and
c) Shared outdoor public spaces.
6.9 Social & Wellness
A community is only as strong as its people.
Castlegar has shown that it is a community
that cares, by establishing several community-,
and socially-oriented programs to care for
residents. The Community Plan provides broad
support for these social and wellness services.
Daycare
Objective 124: Support daycares in all
neighbourhoods.
6.9.1.
Encourage the location of affordable
and accessible health facilities, social
services, child care, education and
health programs in areas well served
by the transit system.
6.9.2.
Support expanded daycare options
which include after-school and other
parent-child programming.
6.9.3.
Support daycare services for
ages where there is no existing
programming or existing
provincial support.
6.9.4.
Healthcare
Objective 125: Support existing
healthcare, and plan for future
community needs to ensure healthcare
access for all.
6.9.5.
Support the sustainability of a 24-hour
medical centre.
6.9.6.
Create an accessible health care hub
with services that expand beyond
traditional health care and include
supports such as showers, lockers,
mental health supports and other.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
107
106
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Social Services
Objective 126: Support and strengthen
social services to meet existing and
future community needs.
6.9.7.
Support community organizations
to create programming and support
systems for those experiencing mental
illness, substance use disorders,
homelessness or a disability.
6.9.8.
Create safe community spaces
for connection (e.g. youth centre,
community gardens, outdoor
performance space, womens
safe space).
6.9.9.
Support existing community services
such as coupon programs for low-
income individuals and the food bank.
6.9.10. Create an online community space for
community organizations and social
groups to collaborate, advertise and
find volunteers.
6.10 Transportation & Mobility
General
Objective 127: Focus on moving people
not just cars.
Objective 128: Transition from a vehicle-
dependent community to a more diverse
and mobile transportation network.
Objective 129: Prioritize the safety of
streets, sidewalks and trails.
6.10.1. Complete a Transportation & Mobility
Master Plan to prioritize future bike
lanes, trails, sidewalks and roads
for construction, enhancement or
replacement, and coordinate with
other infrastructure improvements
and development applications, and
integrate into Capital Budget Plans.
6.10.2. Work with local and regional cycling
associations to inform planning of
future bike lanes and infrastructure.
6.10.3. Prioritize walking, rolling, scootering,
cycling, and transit over other
transportation modes to help achieve
a zero-carbon transportation system.
6.10.4. Include snow removal priorities for
sidewalks as a part of the Castlegar
Snow Removal Priorities to support
transit and year-round non-motorized
transportation.
6.10.5. Developers shall be required to
dedicate land for public rights-of-
way for the purpose of expansion or
completion of the City's transportation
network, including roads, lanes or
pathways as directed by Map 10:
Active Transportation and Map 11:
Motorized Transportation Network.
6.10.6. Work with the Ministry of
Transportation and Infrastructure
and BC Transit to identify potential
mid-block pedestrian crossings along
Columbia Ave. to improved pedestrian
connectivity to Transit Stops.
6.10.7. Revise the "Subdivision and Servicing
Bylaw" to adopt new street standards
that include:
a) Narrower lane widths to calm traffic;
b) Urban residential streets with
sidewalks on both sides of the street;
c)
Incorporation of cycling lanes on
Columbia Ave, collector roads and
local roads;
d) Stormwater infiltration, landscaping,
and street tree integration; and
e) Intersection standards to reduce
pedestrian crossing distances.
Objective 130: Develop Complete Streets
6.10.8. Incorporate Complete Street principles
in road retrofits and new construction,
supported by City standards, guidelines
and best practices.
6.10.9. Include improvements to walking,
rolling, scootering, cycling, transit,
goods movement, and streetscapes to
support a human-scale environment
in all road projects.
6.10.10. Require future development to
implement street-oriented design
approaches that support vibrant and
accessible streetscapes.
6.10.11. Require developments to contribute to
the construction of complete streets
including sidewalks, on-street parking
areas, on- or off- street bike lanes or
multi-use pathways and accessible
design elements.
6.10.12. Complete street lighting upgrades
that are consistent with "Dark Sky"
Lighting guidelines to reduce light
pollution.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
109
108
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Your Way To 2033
GOAL: Encourage less personal vehicle use and more active transportation.
General
Objective 131: Plan for an active
transportation future.
6.10.13. Construct bike lanes, trails, and
sidewalks as shown on Map 10:
Active Transportation on page 108.
6.10.14. Update the Pedestrian & Cycling
Master Plan to identify and prioritize
active transportation priorities for the
5-10 years.
6.10.15. Encourage and support shifting
from single-occupant vehicular
transportation to transit and active
transportation options.
6.10.16. Integrate recreational trails into the
network that provide safe routes
to destinations, including schools,
neighbourhood nodes and parks.
6.10.17. The City should strive for all existing
residential lots within the Urban
Service Area to be within close
proximity of either a primary trail,
secondary trail, sidewalk or paved
pathway.
6.10.18. Implement a comprehensive
wayfinding strategy for walking,
rolling, cycling and transit to support
navigation by residents and visitors.
6.10.19. Ensure that active transportation
initiatives and infrastructure are built
with accessible elements.
Active Transportation
Map 10:
ACTIVE
TRANSPORTATION
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
111
110
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Pedestrian Infrastructure
Objective 132: Enhance sidewalks to
create safe, attractive and comfortable
pedestrian networks.
6.10.20. Construct traffic calming, lower
design speeds and speed limits in the
Downtown and on local and collector
roads to improve pedestrian safety.
6.10.21. Implement new and enhanced
pedestrian crossings to eliminate
barriers to walking as shown on
Map 10: Active Transportation.
6.10.22. Require that new streets be built with
sidewalks or pathways.
Cycling Infrastructure
Objective 133: Enhance cycling
infrastructure to create safe cycling
networks and supports that encourage
more people to use bikes/scooters/etc.
for transportation.
6.10.23. Encourage the integration of active
transportation networks into
the City's broader mobility and
transportation planning.
6.10.24. Install bike racks throughout the
Downtown, Uptown, Columbia Ave
Corridor, Neighbourhood Nodes,
and at parks and recreation areas
in alignment with "CPTED" design
principles to support cycling,
and scooters.
6.10.25. Identify locations for covered bike/
scooter locks in the Downtown and
throughout Uptown.
6.10.26. Work with BC Transit and user groups
to identify key locations for safe,
secure bike/scooter storage to support
multi-modal transportation sharing.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
113
112
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Your Way To 2033
General
Objective 134: Maintain a motorized
network to support business, transit,
tourism and resident mobility.
6.10.27. Construct road connections,
upgrades, and infrastructure as
shown on Map 11: Motorized
Transportation Network.
Objective 135: Sustainably transition City
vehicles to more sustainable ones.
6.10.28. Transition the City vehicle fleet to zero
carbon emissions.
Roads
Objective 136: Manage the City's
transportation networks in a sustainable
way.
6.10.29. Maintain, or where possible enhance,
the existing grid road network and
avoid roads without through-way
active transportation corridors.
6.10.30. Require developers to align future
roads, block size and infrastructure
with the existing grid road network.
6.10.31. Do not permit cul-de-sacs unless
unavoidable due to steep slopes or
required to avoid environmentally
sensitive areas.
6.10.32. Consider full lifecycle costs and impact
on greenhouse gas emissions before
expanding or widening the road
transportation network.
6.10.33. Explore options for secondary access
roads to provide safe egress options in
the event of an emergency.
6.10.34. Ensure that any future roads through
Comprehensive Planning Areas, or
Natural & Hazard Areas are designed,
constructed, and maintained with high
environmental protection standards.
Electric Transportation
Objective 137: Expand and support
electric vehicle infrastructure.
6.10.35. Enable publicly-accessible electric
vehicle charging and encourage
new developments to be
electric-vehicle ready.
6.10.36. Support the development and
implementation of other electric
transportation infrastructure
(scooters, e-bikes, etc.) throughout
the City.
Motorized Transportation
Map 11:
MOTORIZED
TRANSPORTATION
NETWORK
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
115
114
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Transit
Transit corridors establish a pattern of
walkable districts or neighborhoods
connected to commercial, employment,
institutional and recreation areas.
A transit corridor is defined as the walkable
areas around all of the stations along a transit
line. Corridor types are defined by what they
connect; however, most corridors tend to be a
mix of types.
There are three basic transit corridor types:
1. Destination Connector - links residential
neighborhoods to activity centers,
including employment and commercial
centers, recreation areas and academic
campuses.
2. Commuter - serves one major activity
center (such as a central business district)
with riders traveling into the center in the
morning and out at the end of the day.
3. District Circulator - links travel within an
"activity node" - typically a downtown or a
commercial, medical or educational center.
Objective 138: Develop a reliable,
effective and sustainable transit system.
6.10.37. Work with BC Transit to develop
a frequent bus transit line along
Columbia Ave. from Downtown to
100th Street with regional connector
routes that feed into this route for
faster, more reliable transit service.
6.10.38. Work with social organizations,
School District 20, Selkirk College and
BC Transit to develop programs to
reduce financial and other barriers
to using transit (e.g., transit passes,
student passes).
6.10.39. Work with surrounding communities
(Nelson, Trail, New Denver, Silverton,
Winlaw, Slocan and Nakusp) and
BC Transit to improve regional
transportation options that:
a) Improve timing to support
out-of-town residents full-
time employment and youth
employment;
b) Improve frequency to support
regional health care; and
c) Work with TELUS to improve access
to communication at regional transit
stops to increase safety.
Parking
Objective 139: Reduce parking demand
as the community transitions to more
non-motorized uses, and align parking
reductions with appropriate demand to
ensure adequate parking service
Objective 140: Complete a Parking Needs
Assessment.
6.10.40.
Revise the Zoning Bylaw to
reduce parking requirements in all
zones, to support affordability, and
encourage more non-motorized
transportation.
6.10.41. Work with the Ministry of
Transportation and Infrastructure
(MOTI) to identify and establish
large-vehicle parking areas around
Uptown and the Airport for tourists
and to support in-town safety and
traffic flow.
6.10.42. Plan ahead and consider cumulative
impacts to ensure that future parking
demand from infill development will
not impact snow removal.
6.10.43. Increase natural ground cover
and vegetation in large parking
lots through Development Permit
Guidelines for commercial and multi-
unit residential buildings.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
117
116
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
7.0 How We Protect &
Enhance
7.1
What's a Development Permit Area?
Authority
The City of Castlegar has the authority under
the Local Government Act to designate certain
areas as "Development Permit Areas (DPAs)"
for specific purposes and guide or control
development to achieve objectives. In this
community plan there are two types of DPAs:
1. Environmental & Hazard DPAs; and
2. Form & Character DPAs.
Both DPAs have different objectives.
Environmental DPAs are established to:
x
Protect the natural environment, its
ecosystems and biological diversity; and
x
Protect development from
hazardous conditions.
Form & Character DPAs are established to:
x
Implement design guidelines for use
during development to revitalize areas
permitting commercial use;
x
Guide the form and character of intensive
residential development; or
x
Guide the form and character of
commercial, industrial or multi-unit
residential development.
Requirements
The "Local Government Act" dictates when
a property owner whose property is in a
development permit area is required to obtain
a development permit. For convenience, at
the time of adoption of this Plan, the "Local
Government Act" states the following
rules apply unless an exemption in this
bylaw applies or the owner first obtains a
development permit:
x
Land within the area must not be
subdivided;
x
Construction of, addition to or alteration
of a building or other structure must not
be started; and
x
In areas designated as an Environmental
& Hazard DPA "Land Alterations" are not
permitted.
Exemptions & Variances
In addition to any exemptions listed within
each DPA section, general exemptions include:
x
Interior alterations to a building;
x
Replacement, upgrading or repair of
roofing, windows, paint or signage;
x
Installation, repair or placement of utilities,
infrastructure or flood protection works
by the City or authorized agencies;
x
General road construction or maintenance
within the right-of-way;
x
Removal of danger trees under direction
of a qualified arborist;
x
Removal of invasive species;
x
Restoring, supplementing or maintaining
existing vegetation;
x
Removal or replacement of flammable
vegetation and materials for the purposes
of "FireSmart" treatment within 30.0
metres of structures; and
x
Any works undertaken by the City of
Castlegar on City property.
Minor variances may be considered for:
x
Setbacks and/or building height where
development is clustered in order to
protect the natural environment or to
protect development from a hazard;
x
Impermeable surfaces provided that other
means of stormwater management are
addressed; or
x
Landscape buffers where the proposed
building locations do not allow for a viable
tree buffer. In this case, an equivalent
planting area is required on site or within
the public realm along with an off-site
works agreement.
Environmental & Hazard
DPAs
Castlegar has the following Environmental &
Hazard DPAs:
1. Flood Hazard DPA
2. Steep Slope Hazard DPA
3. Riparian & Sensitive Ecosystem DPA
Form & Character DPAs
Castlegar has the following Form &
Character DPAs:
1. Downtown Mixed Use DPA
2. Regional Mixed Use DPA
3. Industrial DPA
4. Multi-Unit Residential DPA
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
119
118
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
7.2 Environmental & Hazard DPAs
Introduction
The objective of the "Environmental & Hazard
Development Permit Areas" is to increase the
resiliency and sustainability of Castlegar in the
face of climate change through the protection
of "Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESAs)"
and regulation of land uses within "Hazard
Areas". The policies within this (Development
Permit Area) DPA support the protection of
natural areas, air and water quality, wildlife
and their related ecosystems and habitats
within the City of Castlegar, as well as
protecting the community from the hazards
posed by developing on, or in proximity to,
steep slopes, floodplains and wildfire interface
areas.
In general, "Environmental & Hazard
Development Permit Areas" establish
objectives for the protection of the natural
environment and protection of development
from hazardous conditions pursuant to the
provisions of the "Local Government Act."
Specific authorities are provided in each
section.
Applicability
This DPA consists of all unprotected
floodplains, riparian areas, environmentally
sensitive areas and steep slopes as shown
in the following "Development Permit Area"
Maps:
Map 12: Flood Hazard DPA.
Map 13: Steep Slope Hazard DPA.
Map 14: Riparian & Sensitive
Ecosystem DPA.
Policies
Environmental & Hazard Protection
7.2.1.
Require lands within an
"Environmental & Hazard DPA" to
remain free of development and
in their natural condition except in
accordance with conditions contained
within a Development Permit.
Application Requirements
7.2.2.
Where any "Environmental & Hazard
Development Permit Area" policy
unreasonably constrains development,
consider permitting a lesser setback
or other relaxation in accordance with
information and conditions provided
by a "Qualified Professional (QP)"
to certify the land may be safely
used as intended without impacting
the natural environment, according
to objectives in each DPA and the
following conditions:
a) The "QP" must prepare a report that
may be included in the Development
Permit regarding conditions of
development to allow the land to
be safely used as intended without
impacting the natural environment;
b) The "QP" must certify a statement
upon completion that the
development was carried out in
compliance with the conditions
specified in the Development Permit;
c)
The "QP" must provide a
"Declaration of Competency" to
provide assurance to the City that
they are acting within their expertise,
training and experience regarding
the specific work they are being
hired for;
d) The "QP" must provide a "Conflict-
of-Interest Disclosure Statement"
regarding any potential conflict,
real or perceived, that could call
into question the objectivity of
their advice;
e) The City may require third party "QP"
review of the report to verify findings
or development conditions; and
f)
All reports are prepared at the
applicant's expense.
g) A "Site Plan" and "Landscape
Plan" is required as part of the
development permit application
detailing the following:
h) Erosion control;
i)
Protection of banks;
j)
Control of post-development runoff;
k) Maintenance of watercourses and
hydrological function;
l)
"Landscape & Ecosystem Inventory"
classification; and
m) All existing and proposed
landscape features.
7.2.3.
Where there is evidence of, or
potential history of, site contamination
the City shall request the applicant
provide proof by an independent "QP"
that the site is not contaminated, or
that it has been remediated.
7.2.4.
Additional site-specific information
may be required as a part of the
Development Permit application
process.
Guidelines
7.2.5.
A site-specific stormwater
management plan shall:
a) Be designed to manage sediment
and run-off during construction for
areas within an "Environmental &
Hazard DPA";
b) Be undertaken by a "QP" or related
professional.
c)
Demonstrate that post-
development flows do not exceed
pre-development flows into
watercourses;
d) Identify erosion and sediment
control measures that will be
implemented during construction
of all developments to minimize
the flow of sediment into the
surrounding environment.
7.2.6.
Retain and restore, where appropriate,
vegetation and soils to control runoff,
and protect natural ecosystems and
habitat values.
7.2.7.
Consider wildlife habitat values
associated with sensitive ecosystems
and species habitats at risk in areas of
danger trees or flammable vegetation
by retaining a "QP" prior to removal.
7.2.8.
Lighting should be compliant with
the Royal Astronomy Society of
Canada "Dark Sky" polices for
Outdoor Lighting.
7.2.9.
Alteration of the natural drainage
courses and topography of the site
shall be minimized.
7.2.10. Total impervious surface coverage of
properties in the "Environmental &
Hazard DPA" should be minimized.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
121
120
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Your Way To 2033
Objective 141: Prevent the loss of
floodable open space, which is critical for
floodplain function such as protecting the
natural environment, its ecosystems and
biodiversity.
Objective 142: Support the protection of
life and property in Castlegar, including
the protection of development from
hazardous conditions.
Applicability
"Floodplains" means all lands within the 1:200
year (0.5% probability of annual occurrence)
floodplains of the Kootenay and Columbia
Rivers as shown on Map 12: Flood Hazard
DPA that are subject to regular flood hazards.
Lands subject to regular flood hazards have
planning requirements and regulations,
including the policies in this section as well as
provincial and federal laws.
Policies
7.3.1.
The "Flood Hazard DPA", shall remain
free of development and in its current
condition unless the proposed
development is supported by a report
from a "Qualified Professional (QP)"
which demonstrates the land is
suitable for the proposed development
and provides recommendations to
mitigate any identified risk to the
safety of life and property.
7.3.2.
Require developments to refrain from
altering natural flow, flood storage or
attenuation, or other natural floodplain
processes.
7.3.3.
Register a restrictive covenant to lands
within the "Flood Hazard DPA" prior to
the development stage.
7.3.4.
Where possible, reduce the flood
hazard to existing permanent
structures on the property by:
a) Adding scour protection around
foundations; and
b) Raising the habitable space and
utility systems (e.g. electrical panels,
heating and cooling units) to flood
construction levels or higher.
7.3.5.
Locate structures as close as possible
to the landward edge of floodplain
properties to minimize access across
floodplain lands and maintain safe
access to public roads.
7.3.6.
Limit the length of driveways, utility
corridors and other infrastructure
within floodplain lands to the greatest
extent possible.
7.3.7.
Refrain from filling low-lying areas
within floodplains that provide flood
attenuation or riparian and wetland
habitat.
7.3 Flood Hazard DPA
Introduction & Objectives
Map 12:
FLOOD HAZARD
DPA
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
123
122
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Your Way To 2033
The City contains several areas where natural
hillsides and riverbanks create potentially
hazardous conditions for development. Many of
these slopes also contain sensitive ecosystems,
such as rock outcrops and riparian areas.
Limiting development in these areas supports
the objectives of reducing natural hazards and
protecting the natural environment.
Areas in Castlegar considered subject to
hazardous conditions consist of steep hillsides
which may be susceptible to rock fall, landslide
and subsidence. Also, hillside areas are subject
to erosion if not properly rehabilitated. A
number of these areas with steep slopes have
been designated for industrial use or have
highly visible residential development. At this
time, no specific objectives have been set to
reduce visual impact of these developments on
the community.
Objective 143: Protect the natural
environment, its ecosystems and
biological diversity.
Objective 144: Protect development from
hazardous conditions.
Applicability
Steep slopes are defined to mean all lands
within the City of Castlegar with a natural
slope in excess of 20 percent.
Policies within this DPA also provide direction
for land within a buffer of 30 m of the top
and bottom of the slopes, which defines the
setback area and, together with the steep
slopes, the DPA.
These areas are shown on Map 13: Steep
Slope Hazard DPA.
7.4 Steep Slope Hazard
DPA
Introduction & Objectives
Map 13:
STEEP SLOPE
HAZARD DPA
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
125
124
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Policies
7.4.1.
Steep slopes, understood to be lands
with a natural slope in excess of 20%,
shall remain free of development and
in their natural condition.
7.4.2.
Steep slope buffer areas, understood
to be lands within 30m from the top
and toe of the slope, shall remain
free of development and in their
natural condition.
7.4.3.
Notwithstanding the above clause,
where the steep slope area renders
a property undevelopable, a lesser
setback may be permissible in
accordance with a report provided by
a "Qualified Professional (QP)" that
is registered as a schedule of a S.219
restrictive covenant:
a) Identifying a safe minimum setback;
b) Detailing how the development will
mitigate erosion, land slip, rock falls
or subsidence; and
c) Explanation of how the
development will not pose hazards
to developments on or near the site.
7.4.4.
Require developments to mitigate any
potential erosion, landslip, rock falls
or subsidence and to avoid posing
any hazards to other developments or
public roadways near the site.
7.4.5.
Construct accesses to minimize slope
disturbance.
7.4.6.
Avoid directing stormwater, placing fill,
excavated material, sand or soil near
the top of slope.
7.4.7.
Require a stormwater management
plan prepared by a "Qualified
Professional (QP)" to limit impervious
surface and manage erosion,
sediment, and run-off as per the
City's "Subdivision and Development
Servicing Bylaw" for any development
in the "Steep Slopes DPA."
7.4.8.
Removal of vegetation within the
"Steep Slopes DPA" is not permitted
unless reviewed and supported
by a "Qualified Professional (QP)",
including any recommendations to
mitigate any negative impacts to the
natural environment.
7.4.9.
Design the development to:
a) Minimize any alterations to steep
slopes,
b) Reflect the site's natural topography,
c) Limit engineered solutions (e.g.
retaining walls) as only a last resort
measure, and
d) Incorporate measures to restore
or enhance the natural grade, soils
and vegetation during or after
development.
7.4.10. Design any structural or slope
mitigation measures by a "Qualified
Professional (QP)".
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
127
126
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Your Way To 2033
Introduction & Objectives
Riparian areas and sensitive ecosystems assist
with management of floods and stormwater,
mitigate the effects of extreme weather,
absorb carbon, and provide habitat and
movement corridors for species of all sizes.
The expansion of urban development has
diminished the function and utility of riparian
areas and sensitive ecosystems in and around
Castlegar. This development permit area is
intended to ensure protection and utility of
these sensitive natural areas within the City.
Objective 145: Protect water quality.
Objective 146: Protect areas prone to
flooding and inundation.
Objective 147: Protect riparian habitats
and related ecosystems.
Applicability
The "Riparian & Sensitive Ecosystem DPA"
represents areas identified from surface water
layers within Provincial databases, which
include Lakes, Rivers, Streams, and Wetlands
as shown on Map 14: Riparian & Sensitive
Ecosystem DPA.
Riparian Areas are mapped and identified with
the following spatial boundaries:
x
60 meters from the edge of lakes
and rivers;
x
35 meters from the centreline of
streams; and
x
30 meters from the edge of wetlands.
7.5 Riparian & Sensitive
Ecosystem DPA
Map 14:
RIPARIAN &
SENSITIVE
ECOSYSTEM DPA
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
129
128
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Policies
7.5.1.
Require development and all
associated clearing, grading and
landscaping to be a minimum of:
a) 60m from the "Natural Boundary" of
the Kootenay and Columbia Rivers;
b) 30m from the "Natural Boundary" of
creeks and streams; and
c)
30m from the "Natural Boundary"
of wetlands.
7.5.2.
Where, through mapping error or
scale, the proponent identifies that
the classes or boundaries of Sensitive
Ecosystems and Riparian Areas may
be incorrect, require the proponent
to retain a "Qualified Environmental
Professional (QEP)" to map and
confirm current sensitive ecosystem
classes, boundaries and buffers, and
submit the results to the City.
7.5.3.
Notify senior government agencies
through referral where development
or land clearing is understood to be
occurring within or adjacent to critical
habitat for species at risk.
7.5.4.
Require developments to avoid
sensitive areas and mitigate any
impacts on the riparian area, sensitive
ecosystem, or stream flow, drainage
patterns and channel geometry.
7.5.5.
Retain and restore, where appropriate,
healthy, mature trees and vegetation
between the development site and the
Sensitive Ecosystem or Riparian Area.
7.5.6.
Retain standing dead trees with
wildlife habitat attributes where
they do not pose hazards to the
development or the risk can be
appropriately mitigated in accordance
with the recommendations of
a "Qualified Environmental
Professional (QEP)".
7.5.7.
Incorporate plants native to British
Columbia and the Castlegar area,
and select them in accordance
to "Firesmart" Design Principles
wherever possible. Refer to
Greenshores Plant Program plant list
at https://stewardshipcentrebc.ca/
green-shores-home/
7.5.8.
Plan development to avoid destruction
of "Critical Habitat for Endangered
and Threatened Species" under the
"Federal Species at Risk Act (SARA)".
7.5.9.
Plan development to avoid Provincial
Red Listed ecosystems and species
and to minimize impacts on Provincial
Blue Listed ecosystems and species.
7.5.10. Remove invasive plants and take
measures to prevent their spread in
accordance with best management
practices and guidance of the
"Central Kootenay Invasive Species
Society (CKISS)".
7.5.11.
Maintain and/or restore vegetation
within the required riparian area
setback to minimize erosion.
7.6 Form & Character DPAs
Introduction & Objectives
The City of Castlegar has the authority under
the "Local Government Act" to designate
certain areas as Development Permit Areas
(DPAs) for specific purposes. In the "Form
& Character Development Permit Areas",
these purposes generally include, but are not
limited to:
x
Implementing design guidelines for use
during development to revitalize areas
permitting commercial use;
x
Guiding form and character of intensive
residential development; or
x
Guiding the form and character of
commercial, industrial or multi-unit
residential development.
The specific purpose(s) of each Development
Permit Area are provided in each section.
Objective 148: Guide the evolution of
Castlegar to ensure that new development
respects and is sensitive to the existing
and unique character of the community.
Applicability
The policies and guidelines in 7.7 General
Form & Character Guidelines apply to
all commercial, mixed use and multi-
unit residential lands within the following
Development Permit Areas on Map 15: Form
& Character DPA:
1.
Downtown Mixed-Use
2.
Regional Mixed-use
3.
Multi-Unit Residential
Development Permit Area Guidelines for Light
Industrial and Service Commercial Lands can
be found in Section 7.11 Industrial DPA.
Policies
7.6.1.
In the event of a conflict between
guidelines in the Form & Character
DPAs and specific Development Permit
Areas, the specific guidelines prevail.
Application Requirements
7.6.2.
Applications must incorporate a site
analysis that considers surrounding
neighbourhood architecture and
character and identifies existing:
a) Buildings and structures,
b) Roads, sidewalks and trails,
c)
Significant environmental
features, and
d) Mature trees.
7.6.3.
Applications must include a "Site Plan"
and "Landscape Plan" that addresses:
a) Identification of planting areas and
types of plantings;
b) Vegetation and trees to be retained
and protected during construction
by distinct fencing;
c)
On-site stormwater;
d) Proposed site grading;
e) Site access points (vehicle and
pedestrian);
f)
Bicycle parking; and
g) A lighting strategy.
7.6.4.
Applications must include a "Site Plan"
and "Landscape Plan" that addresses:
a) Identification of signage;
b) Public art;
c)
Outdoor amenity space; and
d) Seating areas.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
131
130
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Your Way To 2033
Castlegar's Form & Character DPAs
Castlegar has four Form & Character Development Permit
Areas that are summarized below.
Table 7: Form & Character DPA Summary Table
DPA
Are the General
Guidelines in Sec
7.7 Applicable?
Where does
this DPA apply?
Does this DPA apply outside of the
areas shown on Map 15?
Downtown
See Section 7.8
See Map 15
No
Regional Mixed Use
See Section 7.9
See Map 15
No
Multi-Unit
Residential
See Section 7.10
See Map 15
Yes, if the development has five (5) or
more dwelling units this DPA applies.
Industrial
See Section 7.10
X
See Map 15
No.
Downtown DPA
Regional Mixed Use DPA
Multi-Unit Residential DPA
Industrial DPA
Map 15:
FORM &
CHARACTER DPA
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
133
132
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Building Footprints
Parking / Driveway
Sidewalk
Shared Space
Landscape
Lot Lines
Block Length
New Road Connections
Incoming Road Connections
Alley Access
Parking Areas
Building Orientation
Main Street Building Face
(Street Wall)
Roof Line Shape
Building to Street Width Ratio
Setback Line
Accessible Public Space
Intersection Sight
Triangle
2
3
1
1
7.7 General Form & Character Guidelines
The following Guidelines apply to Sections
7.8 Downtown Mixed Use DPA, 7.9 Regional
Mixed Use DPA, and 7.10 Multi-Unit
Residential DPA.
Site Design & Layout
7.7.1.
Limit block lengths and ensure that
access to adjacent blocks (roads,
sidewalks or pathways) is provided at
least every 150m.
7.7.2.
New street and block layouts should
attempt to create an interconnected
road network with more than 1 road
access to all properties.
7.7.3.
Where existing roads, trails and
sidewalks abut a development site,
internal roads should attempt to link
with existing roads to create a well-
connected road, trail and sidewalk
network.
Site Access & Parking
7.7.4.
Surface parking lots are discouraged
in the front or side-street, and surface
parking should be placed towards the
back of sites and behind buildings to
reduce the visual impact from public
streets as much as possible.
7.7.5.
All parking and loading access must
be provided via an alley, if alley
access exists.
Landscaping & Screening
7.7.6.
Centralized and wildlife-proof
garbage and recycling bins should
be incorporated into buildings or
screened from public streets.
7.7.1
7.7.2
7.7.6
7.7.3
7.7.4
7.7.5
Building Placement & Form
7.7.7.
Site buildings so they are aligned
parallel to the street edge, forming a
"street wall" for the public realm that
frames public streets and sidewalks.
7.7.8.
Building width and roof shape should
be sensitive to the overall patterns in
the neighbourhood.
7.7.9.
Buildings should provide for
continuous street edge definition
through a street width to building
height ratio of 2:1 or 3:1 (e.g., building
height should be half of the distance
between another building).
7.7.10. Setbacks should be sensitive to the
existing neighbourhood, however,
exceptions may be supported where
the construction of pedestrian-friendly
building elements, such as open front
porches, are part of the development.
7.7.11.
Buildings on corner lots shall meet
requirements for intersection sight
triangles as regulated in the City's
Zoning Bylaw.
Accessibility
7.7.12.
All public spaces, commercial and
public buildings should be designed
to be fully accessible for those with
mobility or sensory challenges.
7.7.7
7.7.8
7.7.9
7.7.9
7.7.10
7.7.12
7.7.11
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
135
134
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Building Facade Width
First Storey Articulation
Roof Articulation
Identifiable Entrances
Streetwall Window Orientation
Facade Orientation
Window Orientation
Large Horizontal Windows
Window Mullions / Muntins
Window Centreline
Window Patterns
Connectivity to Neighbouring
Blocks / Areas
Sidewalk Width
Amenity Zone
Outdoor "Room" Space
Landscape Area
Building Façade Details
7.7.13.
Break up wide building facades with
smaller storefront widths to enhance
the pedestrian environment.
7.7.14. Define the separation between
the first and second storey using
building articulation.
7.7.15.
Incorporate appropriate detailing
into roof design to better articulate
the building.
7.7.16. Buildings should have a consistent,
complimentary colour scheme and
incorporate a colour scheme. A
minimum of three colours, textures or
materials are required.
7.7.17.
Building windows and entrances
should be placed along the "street
wall" with entrances that are clearly
identifiable from a public street.
7.7.18.
Windows along a street wall should
have a similar orientation to the
building form (i.e. vertical building
= vertical windows, and horizontal
building = horizontal windows, but
not horizontal building = vertical
windows, etc.)
7.7.19. Large windows are encouraged to
be broken up into smaller glass areas
using mullions and muntins.
7.7.20. Windows on the upper storeys along a
street wall should be:
a) The same shape and size as
each other;
b) Placed in a symmetrical pattern; and
c) Reflect building structure elements
established on the first storey (i.e. a
window on upper storeys shouldn't
be placed above a column on the
first storey.)
7.7.13
7.7.14
7.7.17
7.7.20
7.7.18
7.7.19
7.7.15
Public Streets & Landscaping
7.7.21.
Improve neighbourhood connectivity
by constructing and enhancing
sidewalks, trails, bike routes and
vehicle connections in the area.
7.7.22. Develop sidewalks at a minimum
of 1.8m wide with suitable amenity
zones (boulevards or street tree
planting areas).
7.7.23. Amenity zones should be sized to
support multiple uses and designed for
the survival of street trees (Generally
a minimum of 2.0m wide for street
trees, unless using a subsurface
treatment/installation that provides
adequate space for tree roots).
7.7.24. Use landscaping and street trees to
define the "roof" of the public realm,
reduce the urban heat island effect,
create more attractive, pedestrian-
friendly, public streets and incorporate
native plant materials or landscaping
to reflect a local "sense of place."
7.7.25. Incorporate "Low Impact
Development (LID)" techniques into
site planning, including techniques
such as rain gardens, vegetated
swales, separation of impervious
surfaces, installing below-surface
infiltration beds and tree box filters,
and redirecting water from drainpipes
into vegetated areas within the
amenity zone.
7.7.22
7.7.24
7.7.23
7.7.25
7.7.21
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
137
136
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
7.8 Downtown Mixed Use DPA
The Downtown Mixed Use Development
Permit Area reflects the Downtown
Area Plan as well as on-the-ground site
assessments. The Downtown Area Plan
and site assessments note the lack of a
coherent architectural theme and the need for
application of basic urban design principles,
such as parking in the rear, limiting blank
walls, increasing the quality of the pedestrian
experience and the transparency of buildings
to interact with the street. Thus, rather
than create a specific architectural theme,
the Downtown Mixed Use DPA focuses on
ensuring new development follows basic
urban design principles.
In addition to the policies in 7.7 General
Form & Character Guidelines the following
policies apply in the Downtown Mixed Use
Development Permit Area.
Policies
Building Placement & Form
7.8.1.
For corner sites, buildings should face
both the main and side streets and be
placed as close to the intersection as
possible to anchor the corner.
7.8.2.
Front and side setbacks should be
0 m unless a greater setback is
required to provide for an entry alcove
or outdoor patio.
7.8.3.
New buildings should establish a
continuous street wall between 3 - 4
storeys in height.
7.8.4.
Where buildings are built with
more than three storeys, they shall
incorporate a 3 m setback above
the third-storey street wall to
create a "podium" building up to 1
additional storey (4 storeys maximum
building height).
7.8.5.
Ground floor storey heights should
be 4.5-6 m to accommodate active
commercial uses.
7.8.6.
Place active commercial uses at the
street level with secondary (office
/ residential) uses located on upper
floors or in the alley or side street.
Building Design
7.8.7.
Buildings with first-storey commercial
uses should support a high-quality
pedestrian environment by creating
smaller frontages, with individual
storefronts not exceeding 6-10m.
7.8.8.
Developments should try to replicate
existing traditional block widths in
the downtown which is 9 or 18m, and
buildings should use these dimensions
as guidance for establishing the pattern
of façade / storefront widths.
7.8.9.
Street-facing ground floors should
have a minimum of 50 percent glazing
with windows and doors that give
pedestrians a clear view into the
ground floor use.
7.8.10. Blank walls along streets should be
no more than 4 m in length divided
by glazing.
7.8.11.
Window signage must not cover
more than 20% of each glazing area,
except if required due to licensing
requirements (e.g. Cannabis Retail).
7.8.12.
Building Details & Materials
7.8.13. Windows and doors along a street
wall should have vertical proportions
(i.e. taller than they are wide), and
where windows and door openings
along a street wall are wider than
they are taller, they should be broken
up with vertical elements such as
mullions or muntins, etc.
7.8.14. The principal colour should be muted,
while more vibrant colours used for
architectural features, or trims.
Neighbourhood, Streets & the Public
Realm
7.8.15. Construct sidewalks adjacent to or
within 100m from commercial / mixed
use buildings to have an obstruction-
free pedestrian through zone width of
a minimum of 2.5m and a hardscape
amenity space with landscaping and
street trees.
7.8.16. Create intersection bump-outs at all
intersections to shorten pedestrian
crossing length, and integrate
landscaping and public art, while not
restricting safe vehicular visibility at the
intersection.
Canopies & Awnings
7.8.17. Awnings should be used to create a
comfortable sense of enclosure for
pedestrians and provide weather
protection by being placed:
a) At a minimum height of 2.5m above
the sidewalk;
b) At a minimum projection of 1.8m
from the building face;
c) At a maximum 0.5m from the face of
the curb; and
d) Should not interfere with existing
street trees or street lights (ie. trees
should not be removed or pruned to
accommodate awnings).
Landscaping & Screening
7.8.18. Design for water infiltration and
the use of green infrastructure
in downtown streetscaping and,
where appropriate, use native plant
species (first and foremost, low-
maintenance plants able to survive
urban conditions).
7.8.19. Plant a diverse selection of climate
adaptable, locally-viable street trees
with 8-10m spacing to create a
continuous urban tree canopy.
7.8.20. Pedestrian street lighting can be
attached lower down in specified
areas to highlight pedestrian focus,
and have a higher quality aesthetic,
with more detailing on poles and light
heads, and include options for banners
and other aesthetic features.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
139
138
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
7.9 Regional Mixed Use DPA
In addition to the policies in 7.7 General
Form & Character Guidelines the following
policies apply in the "Regional Mixed Use
Development Permit Area."
Policies
Site Design & Layout
7.9.1.
Create pedestrian pathways where
blocks are longer than 150.0 metres.
Servicing
7.9.2.
Surface parking lots are discouraged
in the front or side-street, and surface
parking should be placed towards the
back or middle of sites, and behind
buildings to screen them from public
streets as much as possible.
7.9.3.
Where large parking lots are required,
break up surface parking lots with
stormwater landscaping, and trees
every 30 stalls.
7.9.4.
Locate loading and service bays to the
interior-facing side of the building.
Building Placement & Form
7.9.5.
Site buildings so they are aligned
parallel to the street edge, forming
a perimeter block "street wall" that
frames public streets and sidewalks,
with parking and other amenity space
located in the middle of the site.
7.9.6.
For corner sites, buildings should face
both the main and side streets and be
placed within 3 m of both front and
side lot lines.
7.9.7.
Front and side setbacks should be 3m.
7.9.8.
Where buildings are built with
more than four storeys, they shall
incorporate a 3m setback above the
third-storey street wall to create a
"podium" building.
7.9.9.
Mixed-use development is
encouraged, with active commercial
uses at the street level and secondary
(office / residential) uses located on
upper floors or in the alley.
Building Design
7.9.10. Buildings with first-storey commercial
uses should support a high-quality
pedestrian environment by creating a
smaller pattern of storefront / facade
widths using smaller frontages, with
individual storefront widths not
exceeding 6-15m.
7.9.11.
Street-facing ground floors should
have a minimum of 50 percent glazing
with windows and doors that give
pedestrians a clear view into the
ground floor use.
7.9.12. Blank walls along streets should be
no more than 10 m in length divided
by glazing.
7.9.13. Street-facing ground floors should
have a minimum of 50 percent glazing
with windows and doors that give
pedestrians a clear view into the
ground floor use.
7.9.14. Window signage must not cover
more than 20% of each glazing area,
except if required due to licensing
requirements (e.g. Cannabis).
Building Details & Materials
7.9.15. Windows and doors along a street
wall should have vertical proportions
(i.e. taller than they are wide), and
where windows and door openings
along a street wall are wider than
they are taller, they should be broken
up with vertical elements such as
mullions or muntins, etc.
7.9.16. Awnings should be used to create a
comfortable sense of enclosure for
pedestrians and provide weather
protection by being placed:
a) At a minimum height of 2.5m above
the sidewalk;
b) At a minimum projection of 1.8m
from the building face;
c) At a maximum 0.5m from the face of
the curb; and
d) Should not interfere with existing
street tress or street lights (ie. trees
should not be removed or pruned to
accommodate awnings).
Neighbourhood, Streets and the Public
Realm
7.9.17.
Construct sidewalks adjacent to or
within 100m from commercial / mixed
use buildings to have an obstruction-
free pedestrian through zone width
of a minimum of 2.5m and with
a hardscape amenity space with
landscaping and street trees.
7.9.18. The streets should be reconfigured
to include a landscaped median with
cut-throughs at intersections for
pedestrians as well as turn pockets at
the major intersections.
7.9.19. Create intersection bump-outs at all
intersections to shorten pedestrian
crossing length, and integrate
landscaping and public art, while not
restricting safe vehicular visibility at the
intersection.
Landscaping & Screening
7.9.20. Design for infiltration and the use of
green infrastructure in streetscaping
and, where appropriate, use native
plant species (first and foremost, low-
maintenance plants able to survive
urban conditions).
7.9.21. Plant a diverse selection of climate
adaptable, locally-viable street trees
with 8-10m spacing to create a
continuous urban tree canopy.
Site Lighting
7.9.22. Street Lighting can have pedestrian
internal sidewalk lower lighting
attachments in specific areas to
highlight pedestrian focus, and have
a higher quality aesthetic, with more
detailing on poles, and light heads, and
include options for banners and other
aesthetic features.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
141
140
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
7.10 Multi-Unit Residential DPA
In addition to the policies in 7.7 General
Form & Character Guidelines the following
policies apply in the Multi-Unit Residential
Development Permit Area.
Applicability
7.10.1.
The Multi-Unit Residential DPA
applies to:
a) All residential buildings without a
commercial component, and with
five units or greater within the City of
Castlegar; and
b) All commercial or mixed use
buildings in the Multi-Unit DPA
shown on Map 15: Form &
Character DPA.
Building Placement & Form
7.10.2. Multi-unit buildings should be
sensitive to the surrounding residential
neighbourhood in regards to scale and
roof shape.
7.10.3. Buildings should provide for
continuous "street wall" definition
through a street width to building
height ratio of 2:1 or 3:1 (e.g., building
height should be half of the distance
between another building).
7.10.4. Site buildings so they are aligned
parallel to the street edge, forming a
"street wall" that frames public streets
and sidewalks.
7.10.5. For corner sites, buildings should face
both the main and side streets.
7.10.6. Setbacks should be sensitive to the
existing neighbourhood, however,
exceptions may be supported where
the construction of pedestrian-friendly
building elements, such as front
porches, are part of the development.
7.10.7. Flat roofed buildings must incorporate
architectural detailing such as
cornices, to add visual interest.
Building Design
7.10.8. If being built in a neighbourhood
with predominantly single-detached
dwellings, multi-unit building should
be no wider than 15 m.
7.10.9. Notwithstanding Policy 7.10.8 (above),
where building façades are proposed
to be longer than 15m:
a) Individual rowhouse units may be no
wider than 10m; and
b) Apartment-style multi-unit buildings
must use building articulation to
break up facades longer than 15m.
7.10.10. Building windows and main
entrances should be placed along the
"street wall."
7.10.11. Garage access off main ; and side-
streets is limited to 1 per building, and
can be no wider than 7m, or 40% of the
total façade, whichever is the lesser.
7.10.12. In ground-oriented residential
buildings, front porches are
encouraged to create more attractive,
pedestrian-oriented buildings.
Building Details & Materials
7.10.13. Large windows are encouraged to
be broken up into smaller glass areas
using mullions and muntins.
7.10.14. Windows on the upper storeys along a
street wall should be:
a) Placed in a symmetrical pattern; and
b) Reflect building structure elements
established on the first storey (i.e. a
window on upper storeys shouldn't
be placed above a column on the
first storey.)
Neighbourhood, Streets and the Public
Realm
7.10.15. Construct sidewalks to have an
obstruction-free pedestrian through
zone width of a minimum of
1.8 metres.
Landscaping & Screening
7.10.16. Vegetative landscaping is preferred
over hardscaping in yards around
multi-unit buildings.
Multi-Unit Residential Example
Neighbourhood Mixed Use Example
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
143
142
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
7.11 Industrial DPA
Only the policies in "7.11 Industrial DPA" apply
in the "Industrial Development Permit Area".
Policies
Servicing
7.11.1.
Locate visitor parking in the front yard
or external side yard areas, and locate
other parking on the interior side yards
or the rear yard areas.
7.11.2.
Locate loading and service bays to
the side and rear of the building with
access to the side of the building.
Building Placement, Form, & Design
7.11.3.
Buildings should be oriented towards
main streets and side streets.
7.11.4.
Where no visitor parking is provided
out front, setbacks should be no more
than 6m.
7.11.5.
Building windows and entrances
should be placed along the
"street wall."
7.11.6.
Entrances are encouraged to be
weather-protected with a canopy or
awning.
7.11.7.
Where existing blank walls are greater
than 10m, provide architectural
features including glazing, texture,
materials changes, graphics and
colours as visual interest to break up
the massive surface.
Accessibility
7.11.8.
All industrial buildings should be
designed to be fully accessible
for those with mobility or
sensory challenges.
Building Façade Details
7.11.9.
Building façades should not be larger
than 50m in width.
7.11.10. Define the separation between
the first and second storey using
building articulation.
7.11.11. Incorporate appropriate detailing
into roof design to better articulate
the building.
7.11.12. Buildings should have a consistent,
complimentary colour scheme and
incorporate a colour scheme with
a minimum of two complementary
colours / materials.
Building Details & Materials
7.11.13. Include an eclectic range of styles,
scale, massing, articulation, and glazing
suitable for industrial buildings with an
interior flair by using wood and steel
accents.
Landscaping & Screening
7.11.14. Improve neighbourhood connectivity
by constructing and enhancing
sidewalks, trails, bike routes and
vehicle connections in the area.
7.11.15. Use landscaping and street trees to
define the "roof" of the public realm,
reduce the urban heat island effect,
create more attractive & pedestrian-
friendly public streets and use native
landscaping to reflect a local "sense
of place."
7.11.16. Incorporate "Low Impact
Development (LID)" techniques into
site planning, including techniques
such as rain gardens, vegetated
swales, separation of impervious
surfaces, installing below-surface
infiltration beds and tree box filters,
and redirecting water from drainpipes
into vegetated areas within the
amenity zone.
7.11.17. Install a minimum 3m landscape strip
at the property line along the street
front and exterior side lot, and a
minimum 5m strip adjoining residential
uses.
7.11.18. In all landscape strip areas:
a) Plant trees, shrubs and ground-
covers to cover at least 75 percent of
the ground;
b) Plant the remainder as natural
grasses or no-pesticide lawn
grasses; and
c)
Plant low shrubs (1m minimum on
centre) and trees (7m on centre) to
screen parked cars but allow visual
access to the building for safety
purposes.
7.11.19. Screen outdoor storage areas with
solid fencing or dense vegetation.
Lighting
7.11.20. Ensure security lighting is directed and
does not flood off-site.
Signage
7.11.21. Design entrance signage to be
monument-based and combine it
with landscape design to integrate the
sign into the site.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
145
144
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
8.0 How We Get It All Done
8.1 A Living Document
The Community Plan is a living document and
may be updated or amended from time to
time to adapt to changing community needs
and provincial legislation. Amendments to the
Plan should align with the Plan's vision, goals
and priorities.
Objective 149: Ensure the Plan is kept up
to date with provincial legislation and
community needs.
Objective 150: Ensure a fair and legislated
process for any Plan amendments.
Objective 151: Ensure City decisions are
consistent with the direction of the
Community Plan.
8.1.1.
This Plan shall be reviewed and
updated, in accordance with legislated
timelines, which at the time of
writing, requires:
a) Updating the Community Plan
by December 31, 2028 to address
changes to provincial legislation,
including integration of updated
housing needs reports; and
b) Updating the Community Plan every
five years thereafter.
8.1.2.
This Plan may be updated more
frequently than required by provincial
legislation as desired by the City.
8.1.3.
This Plan shall be updated following
any boundary expansion.
8.1.4.
This Plan shall be updated, in
accordance with legislated timelines,
each time a new Housing Needs
Report is completed for the City.
8.1.5.
City plans, policies and bylaws
prepared following adoption of this
Community Plan shall take direction
and be consistent with this Plan.
8.1.6.
An application for amendment to this
Plan shall identify how the proposed
amendment is consistent with the
vision, goals and priorities of this Plan.
8.2 Implementation Priorities
A plan is just a plan until it translates into
actions. The following is an action plan that
will help translate the Plan's vision, goals and
priorities into on-the-ground actions in the City.
8.2.1.
The City will use Table 8:
Implementation Actions to guide the
timing and resourcing of Community
Plan implementation actions.
Table 8: Implementation Actions
Recommendation
Source
Status
Timeframe
Monitor progress & report to Council, staff &
community annually
Housing
Strategy, 100%
Renewable
Energy Plan
As required
Annually
Revise City's Housing Needs Report with
provincially mandated methodology (every five
years)
Housing
Statutes,
Housing
Strategy
As required
2027
Revise City's OCP to align with Housing Needs
Report (every five years)
Housing
Statutes,
Housing
Strategy
As required
2028
Revise City's Zoning Bylaw to align with Housing
Needs Report (every five years)
Housing
Statutes,
Housing
Strategy
As required
2028
Establish a green procurement strategy for City
fleet & facilities
Community
Plan
In Progress
0-2 years
Enact a local food procurement policy for all City
events
Community
Plan
In Progress
0-2 years
Create a program to incentivize owners to register
non-compliant secondary suites
Housing
Strategy
In progress
0-2 years
Work with community partners to expand home
share programming
Housing
Strategy
In progress
0-2 years
Develop an information package about the
financial costs & benefits of Accessory Dwelling
Units (ADUs)
Housing
Strategy
In progress
0-2 years
Investigate creation of a municipal housing entity
and/or housing reserve fund
Housing
Strategy, Social
& Economic
Wellbeing
In progress
0-2 years
Work with BC Transit to expand of transit routes &
scheduling
Housing
Strategy, Social
& Economic
Wellbeing
In progress
0-2 years
Provide financial support to encourage more
housing on the secondary market
Social &
Economic
Wellbeing
In progress
0-2 years
Continue working with BC Housing for a
permanent shelter space that supports all genders
Social &
Economic
Wellbeing
In progress
0-2 years
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
147
146
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Table 8: Implementation Actions
Recommendation
Source
Status
Timeframe
Develop a multi-modal transportation plan to
address mobility challenges
100%
Renewable
Energy Plan
Not started
0-2 years
Investigate options for public bicycle parking and
charging
100%
Renewable
Energy Plan
Not started
0-2 years
Develop a ride-share program and facilities
100%
Renewable
Energy Plan
Not started
0-2 years
Complete an electric vehicle parking strategy
100%
Renewable
Energy Plan
Not started
0-2 years
Investigate a strategy for the South Replot area &
future development potential
Community
Plan
Not started
0-2 years
Develop fire resistant/fire smart building &
landscaping guidelines
Community
Wildfire
Protection Plan
Not started
0-2 years
Develop engineering design guidelines
Downtown
Area Plan
Not started
0-2 years
Develop a façade and mural program
Downtown
Area Plan
Not started
0-2 years
Undertake a parking supply and demand analysis to
inform parking regulations and amenities
Downtown
Area Plan
Not started
0-2 years
Develop the City's Website for business and
economic development investment marketing
Economic
Development
Plan
Not started
0-2 years
Ramp up 'bear-aware' and 'cougar-aware'
programs
Social &
Economic
Wellbeing
Not started
0-2 years
Support the growth and expansion of the Castlegar
Farmers' Market.
Social &
Economic
Wellbeing
Not started
0-2 years
Create a tenant displacement policy for multi-
family & manufactured home parks
Social &
Economic
Wellbeing
Not started
0-2 years
Work toward provision of accessible public
washrooms throughout the year
Social &
Economic
Wellbeing
Not started
0-2 years
Complete an updated Castlegar, Areas I & J
Recreation & Culture Master Plan
Community
Plan
Not started
3-5 years
Table 8: Implementation Actions
Recommendation
Source
Status
Timeframe
Undertake an infrastructure master plan
Downtown
Area Plan
Not started
3-5 years
Investigate development approval software
Economic
Development
Plan
Not started
3-5 years
Complete a community-wide archaeological
overview assessment
Community
Plan
Not started
3-5 years
Complete a natural assets master plan including
and ecosystem inventory
Community
Plan
Not started
3-5 years
Complete an urban forest canopy cover
assessment & tree inventory and protection bylaw
Community
Plan
Not started
3-5 years
Develop a comprehensive heritage conservation
program
Community
Plan
Not started
3-5 years
Investigate opportunity for an Amenity Cost
Charges (ACC) Bylaw
Development
Financing
Not started
3-5 years
Update the City's Sign Bylaw to reflect form &
character objectives
Downtown
Area Plan
Not started
3-5 years
Investigate options to expand on squares,
parkettes and pocket parks
Downtown
Area Plan
Not started
3-5 years
Create marketing and guidance materials to
promote outdoor retail, vending, and food services
Downtown
Area Plan
Not started
3-5 years
Undertake comparative analysis of development &
business costs in the City
Economic
Development
Plan
Not started
3-5 years
Undertake review of the City's Development Cost
Charges (DCC) Bylaw
Economic
Development
Plan,
Downtown
Area Plan
Not started
3-5 years
Create a housing hub as a central location for
information about housing programs in the City
Housing
Strategy
Not started
3-5 years
Develop anti-oppression & inclusion training for
City staff and local businesses
Social &
Economic
Wellbeing
Not started
3-5 years
Expand community garden provision in City parks
or on City-owned land
Social &
Economic
Wellbeing
Not started
3-5 years
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
149
148
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Table 8: Implementation Actions
Recommendation
Source
Status
Timeframe
Ensure transit has appropriate lighting at transit
stops, and that buses have security features
Social &
Economic
Wellbeing
Not started
3-5 years
Work with service providers to create a community
toolkit for staying safe
Social &
Economic
Wellbeing
Not started
3-5 years
Host educational meetings for landlords to
encourage inclusive renting
Social &
Economic
Wellbeing
Not started
3-5 years
Establish a dark sky policy for the City
Community
Plan
Not started
5+ years
Create a laneway program to activate laneways for
housing & business
Downtown
Area Plan
Not started
5+ years
Create end of trip facilities in public spaces
Downtown
Area Plan
Not started
5+ years
Investigate options for the closure of 4th Street to
vehicular traffic
Downtown
Area Plan
Not started
5+ years
Consider low barrier entry to housing through
Rental-Only Zoning or expansion of MHP Zoning
Housing
Strategy, Social
& Economic
Wellbeing
Not started
5+ years
Create & support programs to encourage
neighbours to know each other & support each
other
Social &
Economic
Wellbeing
Not started
5+ years
8.3 Monitoring & Reporting Progress
The effectiveness of a Community Plan hinges
a lot on tracking and monitoring progress
towards the identified vision, goals and
priorities of the Plan. A strong monitoring and
reporting program will keep the City moving
towards its Plan vision.
8.3.1.
Create a process to monitor and
report on the outcomes of this
Plan, including:
a) Annual reports to Council, staff and
the community; and
b) Five-year reports to Council, staff
and the community.
8.3.2.
The City may wish to provide an
opportunity for citizens to participate
during the annual and 5-year reporting
and monitoring process.
8.3.3.
The City may develop mapping
software to track and monitor where
and what types of development are
occurring within the City, including:
a) Overall ratio of infill vs.
greenfield development;
b) Tracking of infilling of vacant lands
within existing neighbourhoods;
c)
Increase/change in residential
density within existing
neighbourhoods over time;
d) Amount and ratio of commercial
and mixed-use development within
downtown vs. uptown;
e) Ratio of citizens within walking
distance (500m) to daily
amenities; and
f)
Other data and mapping metrics
as desired.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
151
150
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
8.4 Development Approval Information
The City may require, in accordance with the
Local Government Act (Section 485), additional
information from an applicant in certain
circumstances to ensure the development is
suitable for the proposed location.
The entire City has been designated as a
Development Approval Information Area due
to the following conditions:
1.
Castlegar's growth is increasingly within
existing neighbourhoods and information
may be required to assess impacts on
nearby and adjacent neighbourhoods.
2.
Castlegar's landscape is varied and
dynamic, with steep slopes, riparian areas
and large rivers, and information may
be required to assess impacts on these
landscapes and to protect people, property
and infrastructure.
Objective 152: To ensure that appropriate
studies and information are provided to
the City prior to development, in order
for the City to evaluate the impact of the
development on the community.
8.4.1.
The entire City of Castlegar is
designated as a Development Approval
Information Area in order to guide
and support new development that
contributes to the Vision, goals and
priorities of the Plan.
8.4.2.
For the purpose of Local Government
Act Division 6 -- Development
Approval Information Requirements,
development approval information
may be required under any of the
following circumstances:
a) The development results in any of
the following:
i)
A change in Official Community
Plan designation,
ii) A change in zoning,
iii) A requirement for a development
permit, or
iv) A requirement for a temporary
use permit.
b) The development may result in
impacts on:
i)
Transportation patterns and
traffic flow;
ii) Infrastructure including sewer,
water, roads, drainage, street
lighting, and other infrastructure;
iii) Public facilities such as schools
and parks;
iv) Community services, or
v) The natural environment.
c)
The development could result
in other impacts that may be of
concern to the residents of Castlegar,
City Staff or Council.
8.4.3.
The types of studies that may be
required include, but are not limited to,
the studies that address impacts on:
a) Transportation and mobility systems,
b) Infrastructure,
c)
Public facilities,
d) Community services,
e) Natural areas and the
environment, and
f)
Studies that identify the impacts on
other matters that are a concern to
the residents of Castlegar, City Staff
or Council.
9.0 Definitions & Glossary
9.1 Definitions
Accessory Dwelling Unit
(ADU)
A separate self-contained dwelling unit on a parcel that is smaller and
subordinate to the principal dwelling unit and may be located within
the principal dwelling unit or in a separate independent building on the
property.
Active Transportation
Human-powered forms of moving from one place to another. It can take
many forms and is continually evolving as new technologies emerge, but
typically includes: walking, cycling, skateboarding, and other emerging
modes of human powered transportation.
Agricultural Land
Commission (ALC)
The independent administrative tribunal dedicated to preserving
agricultural land and encouraging farming in British Columbia.
Agricultural Land
Reserve (ALR)
The provincial designation in which agriculture land is officially designated
and protected under provincial legislation. Farming is encouraged and
non-agricultural uses are restricted.
Amenity Cost Charges
(ACC)
A one-time charge levied to a property in accordance with the Local
Government Act of British Columbia for the purpose of providing funds
that assist the municipality to pay capital costs of constructing, altering, or
expanding public amenities.
Automatic Vehicle
Location (AVL)
A technology that allows vehicles to transmit data about their location in
real time. In the public transit domain, AVL systems provide information
about vehicle location in real time to both riders and agency staff.
BC Energy Step Code
The performance-based requirements for the BC Building Code for
new construction that is grouped into "steps" and called the Energy
Step Code by the Province of British Columbia. All authorities having
jurisdiction over the BC Building Code--including local governments--can
choose to require or incentivize builders to meet one or more steps
of the BC Energy Step Code as an alternative to the code's prescriptive
requirements.
Bikeable Distance
A distance of 1,500m (approximately 1 mile) from the origin to the
destination.
Climate Action Plan
A framework document for measuring, tracking, and reducing
greenhouse gas emissions and adopting climate adaptation measures.
These documents are used as a framework to guide administrative
bodies in addressing the impact of climate change in their communities.
Community Energy and
Emissions Inventory
(CEEI)
A cost-effective and flexible data collection, analysis and reporting
system for B.C. local governments and other interested parties. The
system establishes and enables inventory baselines, ongoing monitoring
and periodic reporting. CEEI can inform community decision-making and
support provincial objectives related to energy use and GHG emissions.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
153
152
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Community Supported
Agriculture (CSAs)
A production and marketing model whereby consumers buy shares of a
farm's harvest in advance. Consumers become CSA members by paying
an agreed amount at the beginning of the growing season, either in one
lump sum or in installments.
Complete Streets
Streets that are safe for all users, regardless of age, ability, income, race,
ethnicity, or mode of travel.
Conflict-of-Interest
Disclosure Statement
A "Qualified Professional" (QP) providing services to either the Ministry of
Environment and Climate Change Strategy ("ministry"), or to a regulated
person for the purpose of obtaining an authorization from the ministry,
or pursuant to a requirement imposed under the Environmental
Management Act, the Integrated Pest Management Act or the Park Act
has a real or perceived conflict of interest when the qualified professional,
or their relatives, close associates or personal friends have a financial or
other interest in the outcome of the work being performed.
A Statement declares them free from conflict-of-interest and able to
perform the work objectively.
Daylighting and
Rehabilitating Streams
The process of revitalizing streams by uncovering some or all of a
previously covered river, stream, or stormwater drainage. Although most
stream daylighting involves restoring a stream to a more natural state,
other forms include architectural and cultural restoration.
Declaration of
Competency
The Declaration of Competency asks Qualified Professionals (QP) to
consider their expertise, training and experience in relation to specific
work they are being hired to do. Declarations of competency will provide
a measure of assurance for government officials to feel confident in the
information provided by QPs.
Developable Area
An area within a parcel of land less the lands required for environmental
reserves, municipal reserves, and road rights-of-way. In addition, in order
for an area to be considered developable, it must be allow for the proper
separation of residential, sewer and potable water needs.
Development Cost
Charges (DCC)
A one-time charge levied to a property in accordance with the Local
Government Act of British Columbia for the purpose of providing funds
that assist the municipality to pay capital costs of constructing, altering,
or expanding facilities related only to the following local government
services: roads (other than off-street parking), sewage, water, drainage,
and parkland acquisition and improvement.
District Energy Systems
(DES)
The centralization of heating or cooling for a neighbourhood or
community.
Disturbance
Human disturbance on the natural environment, such as grading, the
removal of vegetation, or construction of structures.
Duplex
A single building with two separate dwelling units. The two dwelling units
generally share a wall or floor between them.
Ecosystem Services
Ecosystem services (ES) are the result of environmental processes,
sometimes with human interventions. ES provide benefits that humans
depend on to support life (e.g., because ecosystems produce air, water,
and food) security (e.g., by mitigating extreme weather events), and
well-being (e.g., by supporting mental and physical health, cultural
identity, spirituality, recreation). https://publications.gc.ca/collections/
collection_2017/eccc/En4-295-2016-eng.pdf
Emissions-Neutral
Achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by balancing the emissions
that created so they are equal (or less than) the emissions that get
removed through the planet's natural absorption.
Endangered and
Threatened Species
A wildlife species facing imminent extirpation or extinction or a wildlife
species that is likely to become endangered if nothing is done to reverse
the factors leading to its extirpation or extinction.
Environmental Impact
Assessment (EIA)
The environmental assessment process ensures that any potential
environmental, economic, social, cultural and health effects that may
occur during the lifetime of a major project are thoroughly assessed. EIAs
are regulated under Provincial Environmental Assessment Act.
Environmental Site
Assessment
An ESA will help identify the existence and scope of soil or groundwater
contamination (e.g., from petroleum, heavy metals, pesticides or
herbicides), as well as the presence in buildings of products such as
asbestos, lead paint or mould.
Environmentally
Sensitive Area (ESA)
An area identified through reports, studies, plans, or government
designation as having special environmental attributes that are worthy of
preservation, conservation, protection, or special area.
Environmentally
Sensitive Areas (ESAs)
Areas identified through reports, studies, plans, or government
designation as having special environmental attributes that are worthy of
preservation, conservation, protection, or special area.
Fourplex
A building containing four separate dwelling units with each unit having
its own exterior entrance, bathroom, cooking facilities and service
connections. The dwelling units can be side-by-side, stacked on top of
each other, or a combination of both.
Hazard Area
An area subject to natural events known to result in death or
endangerment of the works of man, such as stream flooding, ground
water, flash flooding, erosion or fluvial deposits, landslides, earthquakes,
weak foundation soils, and other hazards unique to a local or regional
area.
Hazard Areas
Areas subject to natural events known to result in death or
endangerment of the works of man, such as stream flooding, ground
water, flash flooding, erosion or fluvial deposits, landslides, earthquakes,
weak foundation soils, and other hazards unique to a local or regional
area.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
155
154
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Hazard Risk and
Vulnerability
Assessments
An assessment of:
- Hazards (Sources of potential harm, or situations with a potential for
causing harm, in terms of human injury; damage to health, property,
the environment, and other things of value; or some combination);
- Risk: (The likelihood that a hazard will occur, as well as the severity of
possible impacts to health, property, the environment, or other things
of value); and
- Vulnerability (The people, property, infrastructure, industry, resources,
or environments that are particularly exposed to adverse impact from
a hazardous event).
- The purpose of the HRVA is to help a community make risk-based
choices to address vulnerabilities, mitigate hazards and prepare for
response to, and recovery from, a range of hazard events.
Heat Exchange
A system used to transfer heat between a source and a working fluid.
Heat exchangers are used in both cooling and heating processes.
Housing Conversion
Program
An incentive program that encourages existing homes and buildings
to improve or reconstruct existing residential dwellings to convert the
building to a multi-unit building that provides "Long-Term Rental" units.
Impervious Surfaces
Those areas which prevent or impede the infiltration of stormwater into
the soil as it entered in natural conditions prior to development. Common
impervious areas include, but are not limited to, rooftops, sidewalks,
walkways, patio areas, driveways, parking lots, storage areas, compacted
gravel and soil surfaces, awnings and other fabric or plastic coverings.
Invasive Plants
A species that is non-native (or alien) to the ecosystem under
consideration; and, whose introduction causes or is likely to cause
economic or environmental harm or harm to human health.
Land Alterations
Land alteration includes, but is not limited to, the stripping and
grading including the removal of trees, vegetation and grading of
the land for the purposes of development or access.
Landscape & Ecosystem
Inventory
The identification and mapping of rare and fragile flora, fauna, and
ecosystems in a given area.
Landscape Plan
A drawing or set of drawings that shows proposed landscaping
improvements on a site, and can include:
- Identification of the type and location of existing and proposed
plant species (such as number, spacing, size at time of planting, and
planting details);
- Protection of existing vegetation during and after construction;
- Proposed treatment of hard and soft surfaces;
- Proposed decorative features;
- Grade changes;
- Buffers and screening devices; and
- Any other information that can reasonably be required in order that
an informed decision can be made by the authority.
Live-Work
Areas within buildings that are jointly used for commercial/industrial use
and residential purposes where residential use of the space is secondary
to the primary work space.
Live-work units differ from mixed use, in that both the commercial/
industrial space, and residential space are owned or occupied by the
owner/tenant.
Long-Term Rental
A lease term for a residential dwelling or dwelling unit of at least 30 days.
Low Impact
Development (LID)
A stormwater management strategy that seeks to mitigate the impacts of
increased runoff and stormwater pollution by managing runoff as close
to its source as possible and through the use of natural methods.
Low-Impact Recreation
Uses
Recreational uses that require minimal or no infrastructure and have
a low-impact on the natural environment. Uses may include climbing,
mountain biking, walking/hiking, running, bird watching, and nature
observation.
Major Development
Land uses with higher impacts from density or uses (i.e., multifamily,
industrial, commercial uses).
Manufactured Homes
Any structure, whether ordinarily equipped with wheels or not, that
is designed, constructed or manufactured to provide residential
accommodation and to be moved from one place to another by being
towed or carried;
Market Study
A study prepared by the applicant that shows the local or regional
demand for the amount of housing, commercial or industrial
development being proposed to ensure financial viability of the proposed
project (i.e. lots and buildings won't sit empty after construction).
Master Plan
A comprehensive long-range plan intended to guide growth and
development of a community or region and one that includes analysis,
recommendation, and proposals for the community's population
economy, housing, transportation, community facilities, and land use.
Master Planned Parcels
A parcel of land that has been comprehensively planned through the
completion of professional reports, plans, and drawings that address site
analysis, technical reports, and servicing studies.
Missing Middle Housing
A range of attached housing types between two-unit dwellings and mid-
size apartment buildings (less than 6 storeys) that are viewed as 'missing'
from many of urban areas in North America.
Mixed Use Buildings
A building or groups of buildings under one ownership designed to
encourage a diversity of compatible land uses, which include a mixture of
two or more of the following uses: residential, office, retail, recreational,
light industrial, and other miscellaneous uses.
Natural Assets
The stock of natural resources or ecosystems that is relied upon,
managed, or could be managed by a municipality, regional district, or
other form of local government for the sustainable provision of one or
more municipal services.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
157
156
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Natural Boundary
Natural State
Naturalized Lawns
Neighbourhood-
Oriented Mixed-Use
Node
Professional Engineer
(PE)
Purpose-Built Rental
Housing
Qualified Professional
(QP)
Qualified Environmental
Professional (QEP)
Residential Rental
Tenure Zoning (RRTZ)
Riparian Areas
Short-Term Rental
Has the same meaning as in the Land Act, which, at the time of adoption
of this Bylaw was: the visible high water mark of any lake, river, stream or
other body of water where the presence and action of the water are so
common and usual, and so long continued in all ordinary years, as to mark
on the soil of the bed of the body of water a character distinct from that
of its banks, in vegetation, as well as in the nature of the soil itself.
The condition, status, or mode of existence that occurs normally
or innately without human intervention or alteration. It can refer to
something in its pure and raw form, like the natural state of a material or
natural state of the environment, essentially untouched by civilization.
The reduction in the amount of cultivated lawn in a yard and adding
spaces that better represent the naturally occurring landscape of the
region.
An area with a mix of land uses, including commercial, residential,
or institutional buildings that are designed to be a similar-size as the
residential buildings in the surrounding neighbourhood.
A professional who is registered and in good standing with the
appropriate B.C. professional organization constituted under an Act. The
PE must be acting under that association's code of ethics, and subject to
the organization's disciplinary action.
Housing that is designed and built expressly as long-term rental
accommodation. It may also include legal agreements that require the
housing to stay as rental housing.
A professional who is registered and in good standing with the
appropriate B.C. professional organization constituted under an Act. The
QP must be acting under that association's code of ethics, and subject to
the organization's disciplinary action.
An applied environmental scientist or technologist who is registered
and in good standing with an appropriate B.C. professional organization
constituted under an Act. The QEP must be acting under that association's
code of ethics, and subject to the organization's disciplinary action.
A form of tenure as such form of tenure is defined by a local government
in a zoning bylaw.
Riparian areas are the areas bordering on streams, lakes, and wetlands
that link water to land. The blend of streambed, water, trees, shrubs and
grasses directly influences and provides fish habitat.
A dwelling unit or multiple dwelling units that are rented for less than 90
consecutive days at a time.
Site Plan
A drawing or set of drawings that can include:
- Existing site development features (e.g. buildings, structures, parking
areas, pathways),
- Existing natural areas, drainage patterns, waterbodies, wetlands, and
other natural features
- Proposed new buildings, structures, roads, pathways, parking and
loading areas and other improvements;
- Proposed impacts to natural areas, drainage patterns, waterbodies,
wetlands; and
- Any other information that can reasonably be required in order that
an informed decision can be made by the authority.
Supportive Housing
Housing with on-site supports for adults, seniors and people with
disabilities at risk of, or experiencing, being unhoused.
Traditional Ecological
Knowledge (TEK)
A cumulative body of knowledge, practice and belief evolving by
adaptive processes and handed down through generations by cultural
transmission, about the relationship of living beings (including humans)
with one another and with their environment
Transitional Housing
Long-term housing (three months to three years typically) for individuals
who require additional social and health supports and may be at-risk of
being unhoused.
Triplex
A building with three individual dwelling units, each with its own entrance
to outside, kitchen, bathroom(s), and living space.
Urban Containment
Boundary (UCB)
A boundary established by a municipality that delineates where future
urban development and associated infrastructure and services with be
located and the limits to its expansion.
Urban Heat Island Effect
The effect of higher air temperatures in urban areas because closely
packed buildings, paved surfaces amplify, exhaust from buildings and
vehicles and other factors trap heat more effectively than natural
ecosystems and rural areas.
Urban Service Area (USA)
Areas within the City that are fully serviced by city water and sewer.
Vision Zero
An approach to transportation and mobility that has the ultimate goal of
zero traffic fatalities and zero serious injuries.
Wildfire Management
Plan
A plan developed with the focus of preventing and fighting fires to protect
people, property and the forest resource. It also involves fire to attain
forestry, wildlife and land-use objectives.
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
159
158
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
9.2 Glossary
Glossary
Weblink
3, 30, 300 Rule
A campaign that calls for every resident to be able to
see at least three decent-sized trees from their home
and live in a neighbourhood with at least 30 per cent
tree canopy cover, with the nearest public green space
no further than 300 metres from their door.
UBC 3-30-300 Rule
Agricultural Land
Reserve (ALR)
Means a provincial zone in which agriculture is
recognized as the priority use. Farming is encouraged
and non-agricultural uses are restricted.
Agricultural Land
Reserve
Bear Smart
Is a voluntary provincial program designed by the
Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy
in partnership with the British Columbia Conservation
Foundation and the Union of British Columbia
Municipalities. The program establishes a criteria that
municipalities can meet to reduce conflicts with bears
and other wildlife.
Bearsmart Website
BC Step Code
The BC Energy Step Code is currently a voluntary
provincial standard that provides an incremental and
consistent approach to achieving more energy-efficient
buildings that go beyond the requirements of the base
BC Building Code. It does so by establishing a series of
measurable, performance-based energy-efficiency
requirements for construction that builders can choose
to build to, and communities may voluntarily choose to
adopt in bylaws and policies.
BC Step Code
CCP - Castlegar
Community Plan
This document. Also legally known as the City of
Castlegar Official Community Plan.
weblink to come upon
completion...
Central Kootenay
Invasive Species
Society (CKISS)
The Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society is a non-
profit society that was formed by a group of residents
and company/agency representatives in 2005 who
were interested in promoting collaborative approaches
to invasive species management. The Society includes
representatives from non-profit societies, utility
companies, government agencies, and regional
companies.
https://ckiss.ca
Climate Atlas of
Canada
Is an interactive tool for citizens, researchers,
businesses, and community and political leaders to
learn about climate change in Canada. It combines
climate science, mapping, videography, and storytelling
to bring the global issue of climate change closer to
home, and is designed to inspire local, regional, and
national action and solutions.
climateatlas.ca
Glossary
Weblink
Community
Lifecycle
Infrastructure
Cost (CLIC)
The community lifecycle infrastructure costing
tool (CLIC Tool) can help local governments better
understand the long-term cost implications of land use
decisions. The tool integrates infrastructure lifecycle
costs (development, maintenance, servicing and
replacement) into land use planning and development
scenarios. Specific applications of the tool have
modelled how compact development is more cost-
effective over time than lower density development.
CLIC Website
Critical Habitat
for Endangered
and Threatened
Species
Under the federal Species at Risk Act (SARA), critical
habitat is the habitat that is necessary for the survival or
recovery of listed extirpated, endangered, or threatened
species, and that is identified as critical habitat in a
recovery strategy or action plan.
Endangered Species
Act
Crime Prevention
through
Environmental
Design (CPTED)
CPTED Canada is a not-for-profit, educational and
networking organization dedicated to the promotion
of CPTED principles. CPTED Canada developed from
CPTED Ontario which was founded in 2001.
The Mission of CPTED is to reduce the fear and
incidence of crime thereby working towards an
improvement of the quality of life by promoting Crime
Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED)
throughout Canada.
https://cptedcanada.
com/
Dark Sky
Darksky International is a nonprofit organization
building awareness of the value of dark skies, and of the
need for quality outdoor lighting.
https://darksky.org/
https://rasc.ca/lpa/
dark-sky-sites
Federal Species
at Risk Act (SARA)
Is a Federal Act respecting the protection of wildlife
species at risk in Canada. The purposes of the Species
at Risk Act (SARA) are to prevent wildlife species in
Canada from disappearing, to provide for the recovery
of wildlife species that are extirpated (no longer exist
in the wild in Canada), endangered, or threatened as
a result of human activity, and to manage species
of special concern to prevent them from becoming
endangered or threatened.
Canada Species At Risk
Act Website
FireSmart
Is a set of design principles to protect communities
from the wildfires.
Firesmartbc.ca
Guide to Edge
Planning
Is a Provincial Document that provides guidance on
developments adjacent to Agricultural Land Reserve
(ALR)
Guide to Edge
Planning
Harvest Match
Program
This is a match-making program that connects fruit or
nut tree owners with locals ready to pick unwanted
fruit and nuts. The program has been developed to
reduce human-bear conflicts in Castlegar. Picked fruit is
donated to the Castlegar Food Bank.
Castlegar Harvest
Match Program
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
161
160
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
Glossary
Weblink
Local
Government Act
Is a Provincial Government Act that empowers, guides,
limits and affects local governments. The Act covers
important authorities for both municipalities and
regional districts, such as planning and land use powers
and statutory requirements for administering elections.
Local Government Act
Ministry of
Transportation
& Infrastructure
(MOTI)
The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure plans
and improves transportation networks, builds new
infrastructure, provides transportation services, and
implements transportation policies, to allow for the
safe and efficient movement of people and goods.
Ministry of
Transportation &
Infrastructure
Provincial
Blue Listed
ecosystems and
species
Species and ecological communities are assigned
to provincial lists depending on their Provincial
Conservation Status. Blue-listed species include any
native species or ecological community considered
to be of Special Concern (formerly Vulnerable) in
British Columbia. Species or ecological communities of
Special Concern have characteristics that make them
particularly sensitive or vulnerable to human activities
or natural events. Blue-listed species or ecological
communities are at risk, but are not Extirpated,
Endangered or Threatened.
Provincial Species at
Risk
Provincial
Red Listed
Ecosystems and
species
Species and ecological communities are assigned
to provincial lists depending on their Provincial
Conservation Status. Red-listed species include any
native species or ecological communities that have,
or are candidates for, Extirpated, Endangered, or
Threatened status in British Columbia. Extirpated
species no longer exist in the wild in British Columbia,
but do occur elsewhere. Endangered species and
ecological communities are facing imminent extirpation
or extinction. Threatened species and ecological
communities are likely to become endangered if
limiting factors are not reversed. Not all Red-listed
species or ecological communities will necessarily
become formally designated. Placing species or
ecological communities on these lists flags them as
being at risk and requiring investigation
Provincial Species at
Risk
Recreation Sites
and Trails BC
Recreation Sites and Trails B.C. (RSTBC) provides public
recreation opportunities by developing, maintaining and
managing a network of recreation sites and recreation
trails throughout the province.
https://www2.gov.
bc.ca/gov/content/
sports-culture/
recreation/camping-
hiking/sites-trails
Glossary
Weblink
Riparian Areas
Protection
Regulation
The purpose of the regulation is to protect the many
and varied features, functions and conditions that are
vital for maintaining stream health and productivity,
including:
- Sources of large organic debris, such as fallen trees
and tree roots
- Areas for stream channel migration
- Vegetative cover to help moderate water
temperature
- Provision of food, nutrients and organic matter to
the stream
- Stream bank stabilization
- Buffers for streams from excessive silt and surface
run-off pollution
https://canlii.ca/
t/562c5
Trans-Canada
Trail
As the longest trail network in the world, the Trans
Canada Trail connects Canadians and visitors to nature
and to one another, from coast to coast to coast,
through accessible and inclusive outdoor activities.
Through collaboration and partnerships, we build,
maintain and steward Canada's national trail, a unique
system of connected urban and rural trails.
Trans-Canada Trail
Website
Vision Zero
Vision Zero is a strategy to eliminate all traffic fatalities
and severe injuries, while increasing safe, healthy,
equitable mobility for all. First implemented in Sweden
in the 1990s, Vision Zero has proved successful across
Europe -- and now it's gaining momentum in North
American cities.
https://
visionzeronetwork.
org/about/what-is-
vision-zero/
Wildsafe
WildSafeBC is the provincial leader in preventing conflict
with wildlife through collaboration, education and
community solutions.
https://wildsafebc.
com/
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
163
162
City of Castlegar | Community Plan | Say Our Way To 2033
9.3 Existing Plans, Policies, & Legislation
Plan
Web Link
West Kootenay 100%
Renewable Energy Plan
https://castlegar.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/5.-Castlegar-
100-Renewable-Energy-Plan.pdf
Building Bylaw
https://castlegar.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bylaw-1338-
Consolidated-Building.pdf
BC Drinking Water Protection
Act
https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/complete/
statreg/00_01009_01
Castlegar, Areas I and J
Recreation & Culture Master
Plan
https://castlegar.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Castlegar-
Areas-I-and-J-Recreational-Master-Plan.pdf
Castlegar & District Economic
Development Strategy
https://castlegar.ca/government/reports-plans-publications/
economic-development-strategy/
Castlegar Liquid Waste
Management Plan (In-
Progress)
https://castlegar.ca/services/utilities-infrastructure/water-
sewer/liquid-waste-management-plan/
Castlegar Snow Removal
Priorities
https://castlegar.ca/services/utilities-infrastructure/snow-
winter-operations/
Castlegar Source Assessment
Report
Not currently available online
Communications Plan
https://castlegar.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/6.-
Communications-Plan.pdf
Community Wildfire
Protection Plan
https://castlegar.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/8.-Castlegar-
Community-Wildfire-Protection-Plan.pdf
Development Cost Charge
Bylaw
https://castlegar.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Consolidated.
Bylaw_.1197.Development-Cost-Charges.pdf
Downtown Area Plan
https://castlegar.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Downtown-
Area-Plan.pdf
Housing Strategy
https://castlegar.ca/planning-building-business/city-planning-
capital-projects/housing-strategy/
Housing Needs Assessment
https://castlegar.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023-
Castlegar-Housing-Needs-Report.pdf
Plan
Web Link
Integrated Infrastructure
Capital Plan
https://castlegar.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/1.-Water-
Asset-Management-Plan.pdf
https://castlegar.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-Sanitary-
Asset-Management-Plan.pdf
https://castlegar.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/3.-Roads-
Asset-Management-Plan.pdf
https://castlegar.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/4.-Storm-
Asset-Management-Plan.pdf
Major Industrial Accidents
Council of Canada
https://www.cheminst.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Risk-Ba
sed20Land20Use20Planning20Guidelines-1.pdf
Pedestrian & Cycling Master
Plan
https://castlegar.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Final_Ped_
Bike_Master_Plan_for_web.pdf
Regional District of Central
Kootenay Resource Recovery
Plan
https://www.rdck.ca/assets/Services/Waste~and~Recycling/
Documents/FINAL_RRP_12AUG2021.pdf
Social and Wellbeing
Assessment
https://castlegar.ca/planning-building-business/city-planning-
capital-projects/social-community-wellbeing/
Street Tree Master Plan
https://castlegar.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/STMP_FINAL.
pdf
Subdivision and Development
Servicing Bylaw
https://castlegar.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Bylaw-1018-
Consolidated-Subdivision-and-Development-Servicing.pdf
Zoning Bylaw
<new link when complete>