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DISTRICT OF CHETWYND
OFFICIAL COMMUNITY PLAN
BYLAW NO. 1133, 2021
i
Official Community Plan
Bylaw No. 1140, 2022
WHEREAS, the Council of the District of Chetwynd wishes to repeal "Official Community Plan
Bylaw No. 1030, 2016" and amendments thereto, and wishes to adopt a new Official
Community Plan pursuant to Section 473 of the Local Government Act;
AND WHEREAS, Council has reviewed this Official Community Plan in conjunction with the
District's most recent capital expenditure program and other relevant plans to ensure
consistency between them;
AND WHEREAS, Council has met the consultation requirements pursuant to Section 475 of
the Local Government Act;
AND WHEREAS, Council has met the adoption procedure requirements pursuant to Section
477 of the Local Government Act;
AND WHEREAS, Council has held a Public Hearing pursuant to Section 464 of the Local
Government Act;
NOW THEREFORE, the District of Chetwynd is in open meeting assembled, enacts as follows:
1.
This Bylaw may be cited as "District of Chetwynd Official Community Plan Bylaw No.
1140, 2022".
2. The following schedules attached hereto are hereby made part of this Bylaw and
adopted as the Official Community Plan for the District of Chetwynd:
a. Schedule A - Official Community Plan Text
b. Schedule B - Greater Chetwynd Map
c. Schedule C - Land Use Map
d. Schedule D - Land Use Town Centre Map
e. Schedule E - Natural Assets Map
f.
Schedule F - Transportation Map
g. Schedule G - Water & Sanitary Sewer Infrastructure Map
h. Schedule H - Development Permit Areas Map
3. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or map in this bylaw is for any reason
held to be invalid by the decision of any court or competent jurisdiction, the invalid
portion shall be severed and the decision that it is invalid shall not affect the validity of
the remainder.
4. Bylaw No. 1030, 2016, cited as the "District of Chetwynd Official Community Plan Bylaw
No. 1030, 2016" and amendments thereto as it applies to the District of Chetwynd is
hereby repealed.
ii
Official Community Plan
Bylaw No. 1140, 2022
Read for a first time the
7th
day of February,
2022.
Read for a second time the
18th
day of July,
2022.
Public Hearing held on the
2nd day of August,
2022.
Read for a third time the
2nd day of August,
2022.
Adopted the
2nd day of August,
2022.
ORIGINAL SIGNED BY
ORIGINAL SIGNED BY
Mayor (Allen Courtoreille)
Corporate Officer (Carol Newsom)
iii
Official Community Plan
Bylaw No. 1140, 2022
List of Amendments to
District of Chetwynd Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1140, 2022
This is a consolidation of the bylaws listed below. Amendments have been incorporated
with the parent bylaw for convenience only. This consolidation is not a legal document.
Certified copies of the original bylaws should be consulted for all interpretations and
applications of the subject bylaw.
Bylaw No.
Date of Adoption
Purpose of Amendment
Official Community Plan
Bylaw No. 1140, 2022
SCHEDULE A
OFFICIAL COMMUNITY PLAN
Official Community Plan
Bylaw No. 1140, 2022
Table of Contents
1.0
Introduction .................................... 1
1.1
What is an Official Community Plan? ................ 1
1.2
Purpose of an Official Community Plan ...... 3
1.3
What an Official Community
Plan Can and Cannot Do ............................................ 4
1.4
What's New in this
Official Community Plan? ............................................ 4
2.0
Community Visioning
and Goals .................................................... 6
2.1
Official Community Plan Update Process ........ 6
2.2
Envisioning the Future - Chetwynd 2040........ 7
2.3
Vision for Chetwynd ................................................. 12
2.4
Community Goals ...................................................... 13
3.0
Community Context ..................14
3.1
History of Chetwynd ................................................ 14
3.2
Climate ............................................................................... 15
3.3
Regional Context ........................................................ 15
4.0
Community Profile ..................... 16
4.1
Demographics ..............................................................16
4.2
Age ....................................................................................... 18
4.3
Labour Force and Income ....................................19
4.4
Housing Inventory and Projections ............... 21
5.0
Land Use Plan .............................. 26
5.1
Agriculture...................................................................... 27
5.2
Residential ..................................................................... 28
5.3
Commercial .................................................................... 31
5.4
Industrial .......................................................................... 35
5.5
Institutional .................................................................... 36
5.6
Parks, Trails & Greenspaces ................................ 39
6.0
Community Development ....... 41
6.1
Parnterships and Inclusion ..................... 41
6.2
Hazardous Areas........................................................ 43
6.3
Transportation ............................................................ 44
6.4
Municipal Infrastructure ...................................... 45
6.5
Economic Development...................................... 47
6.6
Housing............................................................................ 49
6.7
Arts, Culture, Heritage ........................................... 50
6.8
Social Health and Wellness ............................... 50
6.9
Creating an Inclusive and
Accessible Chetwynd...................................................52
6.10
Parks & Recreation .................................................... 55
6.11
Environmental Sustainability
and Stewardship ............................................................ 56
6.12
Energy Efficiency and Climate Change .... 58
6.13
Financial Sustainability ......................................... 59
7.0
Development Permit Areas ... 60
7.1
Development Permit Area Intent ...................... 60
7.2
Exemptions to Development Permits ........ 61
7.3
Colour ................................................................................ 62
7.4
Highway Commercial ............................................ 62
7.5
Town Centre .................................................................. 71
7.6
Industrial ......................................................................... 82
7.7
Medium Density Residential ............................ 86
8.0
Implementation .......................... 91
8.1
Zoning Bylaw ............................................................... 92
8.2
Other Municipal Tools ........................................... 92
8.3
Municipal Leadership ............................................ 92
8.4
Public Awarness and Involvement .............. 92
8.5
Fiscal Program ............................................................ 93
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1.0 Introduction
"Be open Chetwynd...there is potential to be an
amazing town, be open to new people,
businesses, and ideas!"
1.1
What is an Official Community Plan?
An Official Community Plan is the highest-level policy document for a local government -
including the District of Chetwynd. It is used to inform and guide decisions on land use
management, planning and development within the area covered by the plan for the next 15+
years. An Official Community Plan provides a regulatory framework to guide how a local
government evaluates and approves future development, while identifying and supporting
the community's vision and goals for the future.
An Official Community Plan must be prepared and adopted within the statutory provisions set
forth in the Local Government Act. This provincial legislation describes an Official Community
Plan as a comprehensive guiding document that requires the following content:
-
Approximate location, amount, type, and density of residential development required
to meet anticipated housing needs over a period of at least 5 years;
-
Approximate location, amount, and type of present and proposed commercial,
industrial, institutional, agricultural, recreational, and public utility land uses;
-
Approximate location and area of sand and gravel deposits that are suitable for future
sand and gravel extraction;
-
Restrictions on the use of land that is subject to hazardous conditions or that is
environmentally sensitive to development;
-
Approximate location and phasing of any major road, sewer, and water systems;
-
Approximate location and type of present and proposed public facilities, including
schools, parks and waste treatment and disposal sites;
-
Policies for affordable housing, rental housing, and special needs housing;
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-
Targets for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, and policies and actions of the
local government to achieve those targets; and
-
Consideration of any applicable provincial policy guidelines.
In addition to the content required by legislation, an Official Community Plan may also contain
optional policy components, which strive to influence the overall quality of life within a
community. The Local Government Act identifies the following optional components that may
be included within an Official Community Plan:
-
Policies relating to social needs, social well-being and social development;
-
Policies respecting the maintenance and enhancement of farming on land in a farming
area, or in an area designated for agricultural use in the plan; and
-
Policies relating to the preservation, protection, restoration and enhancement of the
natural environment, its ecosystems and biological diversity.
Before an Official Community Plan can come into effect, it must be adopted by Council as a
bylaw. Once adopted, any decisions made by Council on land use, the subdivision of land,
development and other related matters, must be consistent with the goals, objectives and
policies included in the Official Community Plan.
An Official Community Plan is a long-term visionary document that guides decision-making
and sets a course for the future. Therefore, Official Community Plans should be re-examined
and updated every 5-10 years, depending on the circumstances of the community and other
factors to ensure that it continues to reflect the long-term planning needs, vision and goals of
the community. Furthermore, reviewing the Official Community Plan regularly also ensures
that it remains consistent with other legislation, bylaws, procedures and implementation tools.
While this Official Community Plan reflects the best ideas at the time of its writing, the
adoption of the Official Community Plan does not commit Chetwynd to proceed with any
project that is specified herein. It does, however, commit the District of Chetwynd to ensuring
that all actions taken once the Official Community Plan is adopted are consistent with the
direction set forth within it.
This Official Community Plan is an update of the 2016 Plan to reflect changes in provincial
legislation impacting Official Community Plans, a focus on community development, and a
renewed sense of optimism and opportunity in the community. With the community's input
into what matters to them, this Official Community Plan also reflects the aspirations of the
residents of Chetwynd.
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1.2
Purpose of an Official Community Plan
Official Community Plans are designed to provide some level of certainty regarding the
location and nature of community change to residents and landowners, and serve to guide
municipal councils when making decisions about development, zoning, and services to
accommodate growth. An Official Community Plan can improve local residential, commercial
and industrial areas, and provide the assurance neighbourhoods need to retain attractive and
stable living environments. The policies of an Official Community Plan assist in guiding the
decisions of the business and development interests of the community. Official Community
Plans should reflect a consensus of public opinion, which is utilized as a framework for future
development. Official Community Plans also contain strategies for managing future growth.
This Official Community Plan delineates policy by which the District and the public can
evaluate development proposals to ensure manageable and sustainable economic growth.
This Official Community Plan forms the basis for land use bylaws and capital expenditure plans,
and is consistent with the District's waste management plans, domestic water supply
improvement programs, public works programs, and other capital expenditures.
This Official Community Plan deals with development in the long term and should be applied
and interpreted with some flexibility.
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"The community has unlimited potential...these types
of plans help up capitalize on this potential."
1.3
What an Official Community Plan Can and Cannot Do
The required content of an Official Community Plan is set out in Part 14, Section 473 of the
Local Government Act. The Act outlines the framework for community goals, objectives and
policies. The Official Community Plan must be flexible and adaptive to changes in the
community. The Official Community Plan's planning horizon is 5 years in the short term and 15
to 20 years for longer term considerations.
The main purpose of an Official Community Plan is to provide a degree of certainty to Council
and residents regarding the form and character of the community. The Official Community
Plan can encourage different levels of government to take action, but it cannot force action.
The Official Community Plan does not commit Council to specific expenditures; conversely,
Council cannot endorse actions contrary to the Official Community Plan.
The Official Community Plan reflects community goals which have been determined through
input from Council and the general public. The Official Community Plan can achieve
consensus on some issues; yet for other issues the Official Community Plan represents a
compromise between opposing viewpoints.
1.4 What's New in this Official Community Plan?
This Official Community Plan builds upon the great work that went into the previous Official
Community Plan. While many components have been carried over and expanded upon, this
Official Community Plan also contains many new sections and some re-organization. The
following sets out the sections in this Official Community Plan and identifies which are new
and which are carried over and expanded:
-
Section 1.0 - Introduction - this section describes the context of an Official Community
Plan, its legislative requirements, why one is needed and when it should be updated. It
also highlights what is new in this Official Community Plan and how to use it.
-
Section 2.0 - Community Visioning and Goals - this new section provides an overview
of the process undertaken to develop this Official Community Plan, a summary of the
community engagement that was undertaken, and the overarching themes that arose.
This section also communicates the vision and goals for the community.
-
Section 3.0 - Community Context - this section is updated and expanded on from the
previous Official Community Plan. A more in-depth examination is provided on the
history of Chetwynd, climate, and overall regional context.
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-
Section 4.0 - Community Profile - this new section provides a current overview of the
demographic and economic context of Chetwynd, using data from reputable and up-
to-date statistical sources.
-
Section 5.0 - Community Development - many of the subsections within this section
have been carried over.
-
Section 6.0 - Land Use Plan - much of the content contained within this section is
carried over from the previous Official Community Plan. New land use designations
reflect a refinement from more general land uses in order to provide increased
guidance for future development.
-
Section 7.0 - Development Permit Areas - this section has been refreshed to reflect
current best practices related to new development.
-
Section 8.0 - Implementation - this section has been refreshed to provide clearer
direction on how this Official Community Plan will be implemented over time.
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2.0 Community Visioning and Goals
"It is important to keep the recreation side of
Chetwynd thriving to draw in more tourism and keep
people coming back."
2.1
Official Community Plan Update Process
The Official Community Plan update process is undertaken to ensure that Chetwynd's current
and future aspirations, goals and policy programs are being accurately reflected in the current
Official Community Plan. This Official Community Plan update began with a review of the 2016
Official Community Plan from an organizational and best practices perspective and was
updated to achieve alignment with the District's strategic policy documents and programs.
This update process involved a Communications and Engagement Strategy, which was used
to ensure that all community members and stakeholders were provided ample opportunities
to contribute to the Official Community Plan as it was developed. The Communications and
Engagement Strategy included the following actions:
-
Media releases
-
Radio and newspaper ads
-
Social media posts
-
District of Chetwynd website posts
-
Frequently Asked Questions - both digital and paper brochures
-
Dedicated virtual platform to educate community members on what an Official
Community Plan is and to obtain their input about their community
-
Posters around the community
-
Mail-outs to properties within Chetwynd
-
Graffiti wall at the Recreation Centre
-
Virtual workshops with District of Chetwynd Council and staff
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-
Utilized the help of Community Service Organizations Committee, the Tansi Friendship
Society, the Chetwynd Public Library and Chetwynd Senior Citizens Society to help
obtain input from their members and patrons
The overall update process is presented below.
Figure 1: Official Community Plan Update Process
2.2 Envisioning the Future - Chetwynd 2040
2.2.1
Involving the Community
As the first round of engagement for the District of Chetwynd's Official Community Plan was
initially planned to be in person, the District of Chetwynd quickly adapted its engagement to
an online platform to connect and engage with people during the COVID-19 pandemic and
during a time of isolation and physical distancing. The District used a digital platform which
was comprised of a survey, prioritization and mapping exercises, and received great input into
what the community feels is important, both today, and for Chetwynd in 2040.
The survey was available online through the District's website and Facebook page in April and
May of 2020. Topic areas in the survey included gaining the community's opinions on the
quality of life in Chetwynd, what they enjoy about living in Chetwynd, and gaining insights into
which areas residents would like the District to focus time, energy and resources in terms of
land use and community development as we look towards the future of Chetwynd.
As of June 26th, 2020, a total of 103 surveys were received through the digital platform, and 38
of those were completed surveys. Participants were not required to answer every question, but
to answer the questions that were relevant to them. Input from participants was positive, and
they are proud of living in Chetwynd. Many participants appreciated the opportunity to provide
feedback and to be included in this early stage of the Official Community Plan update process.
Project
Launch
Community
Engagement
(Visioning)
Draft OCP
Community
Engagement
(Draft OCP)
Finalize
OCP
Rollout
and
Adoption
PHASE 1
PHASE 2
PHASE 3
PHASE 4
PHASE 5
PHASE 6
3
2
1
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2.2.2
Summary of Stakeholders Involved
Throughout the Official Community Plan engagement process, an extensive list of
stakeholders was compiled, as shown below. Efforts were made to reach out to these
stakeholders at various times throughout the process to solicit their input into the Official
Community Plan and feedback on the draft Official Community Plan.
General Public
-
District of Chetwynd residents
Chetwynd Youth
-
Chetwynd Secondary School
Students
-
Tansi Friendship Centre Youth
Group
Chetwynd Families
-
Chetwynd Public Library
-
Tansi Early Childhood
Development Centre
-
Parent Advisory Councils
(School District)
Chetwynd Seniors
-
Chetwynd Senior Citizens
Housing Society
-
Save Our Northern Seniors
-
Chetwynd Seniors Group
-
Chetwynd Society for
Community Living
-
Pine Valley Seniors Association
-
Chetwynd Service Providers'
Association (includes
representatives from all Service
Provider Organizations that
have a presence in Chetwynd)
-
Chetwynd Young @ Heart 55+
Club
Businesses and Related
Organizations
-
B.C Northern Real Estate Board
-
Chetwynd Chamber of
Commerce
-
All of Chetwynd businesses
Social Services
-
Chetwynd Society for
Community Living
Service Clubs
-
Chetwynd Rod & Gun Club
-
Royal Canadian Legion Branch
Local Interest Groups
-
Chetwynd Rod & Gun Club
-
Chetwynd Community Arts
Council
-
Chetwynd Farmers Market
Environmental Organizations
-
Northern Environmental Action
Team
-
Yellowstone to Yukon
Conservation Initiative
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In addition to the stakeholders noted above, required consultation with a variety of
government agencies and jurisdictions was also undertaken, including:
-
Agricultural Land Commission
-
BC Hydro and Power Authority
-
CN Rail
-
BC Oil and Gas Commission
-
Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries
-
Ministry of Environment & Climate Change Strategy
-
Ministry of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation
-
Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations & Rural Development
-
Ministry of Municipal Affairs
-
Ministry of Social Development & Poverty Reduction
-
Ministry of Transportation & Infrastructure
-
Northern Health
-
Peace River Regional District
-
School District No. 59
-
Treaty 8 Tribal Association
-
West Moberly First Nations
-
Saulteau First Nations
-
McLeod Lake Indian Band
-
Métis Nation British Columbia
2.2.3
Overarching Themes
The Official Community Plan update is based around envisioning Chetwynd in 2040. The
Official Community Plan serves to address the needs of residents today while simultaneously
envisioning what it means to have a healthy, sustainable, thriving community in the year 2040
and what must be implemented to achieve this. Throughout the engagement for this update,
participants were encouraged to be future-oriented with their thoughts, especially when it
came to the vision they held for their community. Participants were also asked to give
feedback on appropriate goals for Chetwynd, as well as policy directives for land use, growth,
programs and services.
When looking at the responses and input compiled from community members and
stakeholders participating in the virtual engagement activities, sessions and meetings, the
following common themes arose:
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Chetwynd Today
When asked what they liked about living in Chetwynd and about what quality of life means to
them, participants identified that they like access to the outdoors and small-town atmosphere
and many stay in Chetwynd to be close to family and work. When asked what quality of life
means to them, having access to essential services and amenities, work/life balance, and
enjoying a healthy lifestyle was important. Participants envision Chetwynd generally staying
the same over the next 20 years, but with more businesses and services.
Chetwynd in 2040
Direction as to how participants envisioned Chetwynd in 2040 was provided through two key
questions - evaluating the goals contained within the current Official Community Plan and
communicating their vision for Chetwynd in 2040.
Participants were first asked to rank the 2016 Official Community Plan Goals in priority of
importance in order to determine the relevance of those goals today. From the results,
increasing the attractiveness of Chetwynd through the expansion and improvement of
services offered, as well as diversifying the local economy base and generating new
employment opportunities were the two most important priorities. These were followed by
providing better cultural, recreational and educational facilities. Only a small proportion of
participants stated infrastructure improvements such as water, sewer and roads, to be a
priority.
When asked to describe how they envisioned Chetwynd in 2040 participants responded with
a desired increase in more parks and trails to enjoy, having a dog park and a splash park. In
addition, participants wished to see additional commercial development, as well as more
sidewalks, particularly along recreational and institutional facilities in the community.
"Would love a fenced dog park...one for smaller and
larger dogs."
Getting Around Chetwynd
In the District of Chetwynd, driving is the main mode of transportation used by participants to
get around the community, followed by walking, which occurs mostly in the downtown core,
and then by cycling. Since the closing of the Greyhound bus system, a bus service has been
missed and improvements to roads would be appreciated by the participants.
Participants noted that when they travel through Chetwynd, they go for walks, shopping,
groceries, and the recreation centre. Participants also indicate that they travel to Dawson
Creek, Fort St. John, and Grande Prairie for medical appointments, visiting family and friends,
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and for shopping at larger centres. The majority of residents indicated that they travelled
outside of Chetwynd 2-3 times a month.
Leisure in Chetwynd
When participants were asked to prioritize the parks and recreation facilities that Chetwynd
has, the most frequently visited facility was the climbing wall. Other recreation facilities, in
order of priority and use were the curling rink, fitness programs, the gym, ice arenas, leisure
pool, running/walking track, skateboard park, neighbourhood and school playgrounds and the
library.
As indicated previously, participants would like to see more parks, including a dog park and
spray park in the future for Chetwynd. The Arts Council and chainsaw carvings are done well,
and overall, participants appreciate Chetwynd's efforts for encouraging and supporting arts
and culture in the community.
"Chainsaw carving and Minerals North well attended
and show case the community efficiently."
A Greener Chetwynd
Recycling is a predominant activity that participants are doing to be environmentally
sustainable. In the future, participants indicated a desire to see an expansion of curbside
recycling pickup, a composting program, and an increase in the recycling options available for
Chetwynd.
"The blue bag recycling program is great...industry
partners are doing their share as well...environment is
a big concern to the community."
Healthy Chetwynd
Being able to walk, hike and stay active while also having access to healthy food options were
important to participants, as is spending time with friends and family. Many participants take
part in sports or craft groups and during winter months, fitness programs and the gym are
used extensively for indoor fitness, while snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are activities
enjoyed outside.
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In the future, having dog parks and trails, as well as more health professionals in the
community were identified as key ways to improve the social, physical, and mental wellness of
the community.
"Love our recycling program."
Open for Business
Attracting new businesses to Chetwynd was identified as a current challenge facing the
community. While participants recognize and appreciate all of the local retailers, there was a
desire to see an increase in shopping options locally, so that the need to travel to other
jurisdictions could be reduced. Participants were unsure of successful economic development
initiatives in the community but did note that the Farmers' Market appears to have grown over
the years.
Budgeting for the Future
When participants were asked to budget for
the future, it was noted that municipal
spending investments were desired in road
repair and maintenance, followed by the
District's water treatment and distribution
systems, and maintaining and improving
sidewalks and trails. Interestingly, the arts,
culture
and
bylaw
enforcement
were
considered the lowest priority for municipal
investments.
In general, participants identified downtown
revitalization
and
being
open
to
new
opportunities as ways to improve Chetwynd in
the future.
2.3 Vision for Chetwynd
Chetwynd exists in order that the area residents have sustainable opportunities for Security,
Health, Safety and Prosperity in surroundings that display the best of our natural
environment.
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2.4 Community Goals
Building from the engagement process input, the community's goals are to:
1.
Ensure that land use planning is undertaken in the best interests of the community.
2. Provide enhanced cultural, recreational social, and educational facilities and programs for
existing and future residents.
3. Continue promoting Chetwynd as a regional service centre.
4. Continue to protect, develop, and promote the District's natural features and existing
tourism base.
5. Diversify the local economic base and generate new employment opportunities through
the retention of existing businesses and the attraction of new employers and business
opportunities to the community.
6. Thoughtfully plan for municipal services and utilities expansion to service a growing
population.
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3.0 Community Context
"Library has a lot of great programs."
3.1
History of Chetwynd
The District of Chetwynd was originally known as "Little Prairie" by its first settlers who came
to the current town site in the early 1900s. It is British Columbia's entrance to, and exit from,
the energetic Peace River country.
Chetwynd remained a relatively quiet rural community until the coming of the John Hart
Highway in the early 1950s and the Pacific Great Eastern (P.G.E.) railroad, which saw the first
train arrive in Little Prairie to a crowd of 3,000 in 1958. The town was renamed Chetwynd in
1959 after the Honorable Ralph Chetwynd, who had served as the Minister of Railways.
Chetwynd was officially incorporated as a village in 1962. With Chetwynd being situated at the
junction of Highways 97 and 29, and an established rail service, Chetwynd became the natural
transportation hub of the Peace River area. In addition, the rail service played a key role in the
development of a growing lumber industry in the region and together with the Westcoast
Transmission pipeline project, helped attract new business and industrial investment in
Chetwynd.
The District of Chetwynd is a great place to live. The community has homes for all ages and
income levels, a variety of neighbourhoods, and attractive parks throughout the municipality.
The Chetwynd area is well known for its breathtaking scenery and countryside. The
surrounding area contains mountains for hiking and skiing, lakes and rivers for swimming,
canoeing and fishing, and a countryside and park system that produces some of the best
camping, snowmobiling, hunting, and wildlife viewing in Canada. The region also has a diverse
history, ranging from 90 million year old dinosaur tracks to the world famous, World War II era,
Alaska Highway. The area also contains thousands of years of First Nations history and a
century of European homestead history.
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Today, Chetwynd is a bustling community of approximately 2,600 people. In addition to its own
population, another approximately 4,000 residents live in the surrounding area, making the
District a service centre for approximately 7,000 residents. Chetwynd's primary industries have
remained largely the same over time, with forestry, ranching, oil and gas extraction and
processing, and mining being the main sources of employment and economic development
in the area. Many of these industries have resulted in Chetwynd expanding its boundaries to
encompass five satellite areas within its municipal boundary (see Schedule B). In addition to
its industries, Chetwynd's tourism industry has grown considerably over the past decades and
has become a significant contributor to the District's local economy.
"Although a small town, there are lots of caring
people looking after each other."
3.2 Climate
Chetwynd is located in the northern
foothills of the eastern slopes of the Rocky
Mountains, on a small terrace that was
carved out of an ancient floodplain. While
Chetwynd is surrounded by forested hills,
the prairies of the Peace River country
begin here and continue eastward into
Alberta. Its climate includes frigid winters
and warm summers, consistent with that
of a cool continental climate. Average
daily high temperatures range from -4°C
in January to 22°C in July, and the average
annual
precipitation
(rainfall
and
snowfall) is 440 mm, with over 64% of that
falling between May and September.
3.3 Regional Context
The District of Chetwynd is a member of the Peace River Regional District and is the third-
largest municipality. The District is seen as the service centre for the West Peace region, and
works closely with its neighbours, particularly Tumbler Ridge and Hudson's Hope, on initiatives
in the area. In addition, the District works closely with the Peace River Regional District and
provincial ministries on initiatives that impact multiple jurisdictions.
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4.0
Community Profile
"Wood carvings are awesome."
The demographic and economic context of a community shape its housing needs. Age and
stage of life, household type and size, income, and employment all directly affect the type of
housing units, sizes, and tenures needed. This section provides an overview of these factors,
using a combination of data from the Statistics Canada Census Profiles and data tables and
custom data prepared for the District of Chetwynd's recently completed Housing Needs
Report (2021).
4.1 Demographics
Chetwynd's population growth is largely
driven by the resource-based industries
operating in the area. As a result of the
cyclical nature that occurs with those
industries, Chetwynd's population growth
fluctuates as a result.
Between 2006 and 2016, the population of
Chetwynd decreased by 5%, or 130 residents,
from 2,633 to 2,503 residents (Figure 2).
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Figure 2 - Population Changes in Chetwynd, 2006-2016
Source: Statistics Canada Census Program, Census Profiles 2006, 2011, 2016
Chetwynd has a total of 525 individuals or 21% of the population in private households (2,470
individuals) who identify as Indigenous as of the 2016 Census (Figure 3). Of this group, 52%
identify as First Nations, 44% as Métis and 3% had multiple indigenous identities. The
Indigenous population in Chetwynd makes up approximately 6% of the overall Indigenous
population in the PRRD as recorded in the 2016 Census.
Figure 3 - Indigenous Identity for Population in Private Households, 2016
Source: Statistics Canada Census Program, Census Profile 2016
2,633
2,635
2,503
2,400
2,450
2,500
2,550
2,600
2,650
2006
2011
2016
52%, 275
44%, 230
3%, 15
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
Chetwynd
First Nations (North American Indian)
Métis
Inuk (Inuit)
Multiple Indigenous Responses
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4.2 Age
From 2006 to 2016, the median age in Chetwynd declined slightly from 32.9 to 32.7, indicating
a trend of younger residents moving into the area, or older residents leaving the community.
The median age in Chetwynd is lower than the PRRD (34.1) and BC (43.0). Age group
distribution over the past three Census reports show a relatively stable population, with a
proportional increase of adults aged 25 to 34 of 4%, the largest change in the share of any age
cohort in the community (Figure 4). The age distribution in Chetwynd is comparable with the
PRRD in 2016.
Figure 4 - Age Distribution in Chetwynd, 2006-2016
Source: Statistics Canada Census Program, Census Profiles 2006, 2011, 2016
"Need to encourage youth to stay in Chetwynd by
offering trades programs and better education."
23%
21%
21%
21%
16%
15%
14%
13%
15%
17%
19%
17%
15%
13%
13%
13%
15%
16%
13%
13%
9%
10%
12%
12%
4%
5%
5%
6%
2%
2%
2%
3%
0%
1%
1%
1%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
2006
2011
2016
PRRD 2016
85 and over
75 to 84
65 to 74
55 to 64
45 to 54
35 to 44
25 to 34
15 to 24
0 to 14
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4.3 Labour Force and Income
4.3.1
Labour Force
Between 2006 and 2016, Chetwynd saw a slight decrease in labour participation from 76% to
74% (Figure 5). The unemployment rate in Chetwynd increased from 5.8% to 13.7% over the
same time period, however, the estimated unemployment rate for Northeast region of BC in
October 2019 is much lower at 2.6%1. This increase in unemployment between 2006 and 2016
took place during a period of time where there was a downturn in the natural resource
economy in 2014 and 2015, a trend that was reflected across the region.
In 2016, the top five industries employing Chetwynd residents included manufacturing (16%),
accommodation and food services (11%), retail trade (10%), construction (8%), health care and
social services and agricultural, forestry, fishing and hunting (7%). However, the current
distribution of labour force by industry in Chetwynd is likely to have changed from 2016. Since
2016, there have been several large projects initiated in the PRRD, including the construction
of the Coastal GasLink pipeline, Site C construction, Pembina and Enbridge pipeline
expansions, and major growth in the Montney region. Many employees working on these
projects live in communities like Chetwynd, or in work camps situated across the region.
Figure 5 - Labour Participation and Unemployment Rate in Chetwynd, 2006-2016
Source: Statistics Canada Census Program, Custom Data Organization for
BC Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
1 As reported by Statistics Canada from the Labour Force Survey. Table 14-10-0293-02 Labour force characteristics by
economic region, three-month moving average, unadjusted for seasonality (x 1,000).
76%
74%
74%
5.8%
6.0%
13.7%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
2006
2011
2016
2006
2011
2016
Participation rate
Unemployment rate
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4.3.2
Household Median Income
Between 2006 and 2016, median before-tax private household income grew by 33% in
Chetwynd (Figure 6).
Of the renter households, 51% earn less than $60,000, while owner household income is more
evenly distributed across income groups (Figure 7). This indicates that renters may not
necessarily choose this tenure but rent because they are unable to afford ownership as an
option. This also puts them at risk of affordability issues if housing prices increase.
Figure 6 - Median Before-Tax Private Household Income in Chetwynd, 2006-2016
Source: Statistics Canada Census Program, Census Profiles 2001, 2006, 2016, NHS Profile 2011
Figure 7 - Median Income by Tenure in Chetwynd 2006-2016
Source: Statistics Canada Census, Custom Data Organization for BC Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
$64,478
$90,709
$0
$10,000
$20,000
$30,000
$40,000
$50,000
$60,000
$70,000
$80,000
$90,000
$100,000
2006
2016
$100,814
$102,765
$103,041
$59,907
$62,016
$56,000
$-
$20,000
$40,000
$60,000
$80,000
$100,000
$120,000
2006
2011
2016
Owner
Renter
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4.4 Housing Inventory and Projections
From 2006 to 2016, the number of households in Chetwynd decreased by 20 households, or
2%, from 1,025 to 1,005. Compared to the addition of 130 individuals, the decrease in household
growth suggests that population is outpacing the formation of households. The average
household size in Chetwynd decreased slightly from 2.6 to 2.5 persons from 2006 to 2016, which
is the same as the PRRD's average household size of 2.5 persons in 2016. Thirty nine percent
(39%) of households in Chetwynd are 3 person or more households (Figure 8).
Figure 8 - Household by Size in Chetwynd, 2016
Source: Statistics Canada Census Program, Census Profiles 2016
4.4.1
Housing Units
As of 2016, there were 1,005 dwellings in
Chetwynd. The dominant form of housing in
Chetwynd is single-detached house, with
76% of single-detached houses owned and
14% of single-detached houses rented.
Movable dwellings were the second largest
type
of
housing
units
owned
within
Chetwynd at 20% and 14% rented (Figure 9).
275
27%
340
34%
180
18%
125
12%
90
9%
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
1 person
2 person
3 person
4 person
5 or more person
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Figure 9 - Dwellings by Structure Type and Tenure in Chetwynd, 2016
Source: Statistics Canada, 2016 Census of Population, Statistics Canada Catalogue no. 98-400-X2016227
In 2016, 70% of dwellings in Chetwynd had three or more bedrooms (Figure 10). Most dwellings
with three bedrooms or more were owned (86%), and 47% were rented of that size. Sixty-three
percent (63%) of rented dwellings had two bedrooms or fewer.
Figure 10 - Dwellings by Unit Size by Tenure in Chetwynd, 2016
Source: Statistics Canada, 2016 Census of Population, Statistics Canada Catalogue no. 98-400-X2016220
76%
1%
20%
14%
5%
29%
33%
14%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
Single-detached
house
Semi-detached house
Row house
Apartment (<5
storeys)
Movable Dwelling
Owner
Renter
7%
22%
38%
32%
10
1%
80
12%
280
41%
310
45%
60
19%
140
44%
100
32%
15
5%
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
45%
50%
No bedrooms
1 bedroom
2 bedrooms
3 bedrooms
4 or more bedrooms
Total
Owner
Renter
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4.4.2
Condition of Housing
In 2016, most dwellings require regular maintenance only (56% of all dwellings), while 37%
required minor repairs and 5.4% require major repairs (Figure 11). In Chetwynd, 51% of dwellings
were built before 1980 (Figure 12), which corresponds with the relatively high rates of housing
requiring minor or major repairs. Having an older housing stock overall indicates the potential
need for investments from homeowners and rental property owners to ensure dwelling units
are maintained to a high standard, which may not be possible in all income brackets, thus
lowering the quality of housing available in the market.
Figure 11 - Condition of Dwelling by Tenure in Chetwynd, 2016
Source: Statistics Canada, 2016 Census of Population, Statistics Canada Catalogue no. 98-400-X2016222
Figure 12 - Dwellings by Period of Construction in Chetwynd and PRRD, 2016
Source: Statistics Canada Census Program, Census Profiles 2016
56%, 570
55%, 385
58%, 185
37%, 380
37%, 260
36%, 115
5.4%, 55
5.7%, 40
4.7%, 15
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
Total
Owner
Renter
Regular Maintence
Minor Repairs
Major Repairs
5%
46%
38%
11%
1960 or before
1961 to 1980
1981 to 2000
2001 to 2016
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4.4.3
Occupied Private Dwellings
Private dwellings that are occupied by usual residents means a house in which a person or
household is permanently residing. Dwellings that are not occupied by usual residents usually
means that the housing unit is either vacant or rented out on a temporary basis. In Chetwynd,
78% of private dwellings were occupied and 22% (289 units) were unoccupied (Table 1).
Table 1 - Occupied Private Dwellings, Chetwynd, 2016
Number of
Dwellings
Proportion of Total
Private Dwellings (%)
Total private dwellings
1,294
100%
Private dwellings occupied by usual residents
1,005
78%
Private dwellings not occupied by usual residents
289
22%
Source: Statistics Canada Census Program, Census Profiles 2016
Between 2016 and 2018, the total value of all residential building permits issued by the District
of Chetwynd fluctuated significantly which corresponds with the economic downturn
experienced in the region in late 2015 and into 2016. As of July 2020, the total value of residential
building permits issued in Chetwynd for the year to date was $55,000. These figures do include
the value of all residential projects including deck developments and accessory buildings such
as garages and sheds, in addition to any new residential dwelling units. (Table 2).
Table 2 - Residential Building Permit Values, Chetwynd, 2016-2018
Residential Building Permit Value
2016
$514,571
2017
$258,600
2018
$351,650
Source: District of Chetwynd
4.4.4
Chetwynd Housing Projections
The number of households in Chetwynd increased by 65 between 2016 and 2020 and is
expected to increase again by 179 households by 2025 (Table 3).
Table 3 - Projected Households Growth, 2016-2025
2016
2020
2025
Households
1,015
1,080
1,259
Change from prior period
N/A
65
179
Source: Derived from Statistics Canada Census Program, and BC Stats Custom Chetwynd Population Projections
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Table 4 provides an estimate of unit sizes required for 2016 to 2020 and 2020 to 2025 based on
projected household growth. A total of 65 units were needed to meet growth between 2016
and 2020, and an additional 179 units will be needed between 2020 and 2025, the majority of
which being bachelor/1 bedroom units and two bedroom units.
Table 4 - Projected Additional Dwelling Needs by Bedroom Type, 2016-2025
2016-2020
2020-2025
Cumulative Total
Total Anticipated Housing Units
65
179
244
Bachelor/1 Bedroom
59
74
133
2 Bedroom
6
70
76
3+ Bedroom
0
36
36
Source: Derived from Statistics Canada Census Program, and BC Stats Custom Chetwynd Population Projections
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5.0 Land Use Plan
One of the primary functions of an OCP is to determine future land use direction of a
community. The following land use policies are intended to guide future development and
redevelopment in Chetwynd in a manner that best reflects the interests of the entire
community. Identifying and designating land supply for future agricultural, residential,
commercial, industrial, institutional and park space is vital to ensuring a healthy community
balance and providing the community with a solid course of action for how the community
will evolve over the next twenty years. The following policies intend to give the District of
Chetwynd stability moving into the future and a platform to inform future decision making for
the benefit of the whole community.
Schedules C and D show the land use plan in the District of Chetwynd.
General Objectives:
1.
Ensure development applications undergo an efficient and consistent approvals process
that aligns with the direction set out in this Official Community Plan.
2. Work towards the efficient use of land, infrastructure and other resources to
accommodate growth.
General Policies:
1.
Consider development applications submitted to the District with respect to consistency
with future land use designations, policies and applicable Development Permit Area
guidelines as outlined in this Official Community Plan.
2. Ensure that buffers between new residential development and adjacent agricultural lands
or Peace River Regional District lands conform to the conditions specified in the
Agricultural Land Commission's Guide to Edge Planning.
3. Require development applicants to meet with District staff prior to application submission
and ensure development applications are efficiently processed.
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4. Consider Temporary Use Permits anywhere within the District of Chetwynd as
appropriate.
5. Recognize that the District of Chetwynd currently has no known aggregate sources that
exist or are being developed.
5.1
Agriculture
The District of Chetwynd is surrounded largely by
extensive farmland, the majority of which is within
the Agricultural Land Reserve. On a provincial scale,
over 30% of the province's dedicated Agricultural
Land Reserve land is located within the Peace River
region of northeast British Columbia. The District of
Chetwynd
supports
the
Agricultural
Land
Commission's policies for the preservation of
agricultural
lands.
Agricultural
Land
Reserve
exclusion applications to the Agricultural Land
Commission will only be supported in the event
that it is critical to accommodate development on
these designated lands for the purposes of long-
term land use planning efforts by the District.
Objectives:
1.
Ensure compatibility between agricultural land and other land uses in proximity, with a
focus on lands within the Agricultural Land Reserve.
2. Protect agricultural heritage, culture and use in the area, particularly on lands within
Agricultural Land Reserve.
3. Collaborate with the Agricultural Land Commission to support shared goals.
Policies:
1.
Support agricultural activities in the Agricultural Land Reserve and the mandate of the
Agricultural Land Commission.
2. Collaborate with the Agricultural Land Commission to ensure the development of lands
within the Agricultural Land Reserve designated for future residential, commercial, and
industrial uses occurs in an incremental and orderly manner.
3. Only support applications for exclusion of agricultural lands from the Agricultural Land
Reserve if it can be demonstrated that such exclusions are essential to the well-being of
the community.
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4. Work toward minimizing land use conflicts that may arise between agricultural and rural
activities.
5. Ensure new road and utility corridors minimize impact on existing agricultural operations
and promote the Ministry of Agriculture's Guide to Using and Developing Trails in Farm
and Ranch Areas.
6. Consider evaluating any future boundary extension request to ensure that the impacts on
agricultural land are minimal.
7. Recognize that soil removal within the Agricultural Land Reserve is subject to the
Agricultural Land Commission Act.
5.2
Residential
The District of Chetwynd could potentially
need up to 180 new residential dwellings over
the next 5 years to meet forecasted population
growth. In addition to new housing, some of
the existing residential stock will need to be
replaced. To accommodate a diverse range of
housing options for the different needs of
residents, the following policies have been
developed to ensure that the District continues
to provide sufficient housing options for
existing and new residents alike.
General Policies:
1.
Support residential growth and development while addressing concerns related to the
environment, access to parks and natural areas, parking, emergency access, traffic, snow
removal, walkability, accessibility noise, lights, and odour effects on other properties and
neighbourhood character.
2. Encourage and support more diverse housing options that respond to needs as they
change over time, including affordable, attainable and inclusive housing.
3. Encourage the development of new housing that integrates with the character of existing
neighbourhoods.
4. Encourage the development of all types of seniors' living facilities within Chetwynd, from
independent living to extended care.
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5.2.1
Low Density Residential
The low-density residential land use designation is designed to facilitate the development of
residential areas containing primarily single-detached residential development with
opportunities for attached and detached suites, as well as duplex homes and manufactured
home parks.
Council's policies are to:
1.
Encourage new low-density residential development to include a range of housing types
such as:
a)
Single-detached homes with attached or detached suites;
b)
Small lot single detached homes;
c)
Semi-detached and duplex homes; and
d)
Universally accessible homes of all types.
2. Ensure that new residential areas are efficiently located adjacent to existing
developments in order to:
a)
Minimize future maintenance costs; and
b)
Capitalize on the District's existing infrastructure.
3. Support closer front setbacks of residential dwellings to sidewalks in the Zoning Bylaw to
increase pedestrian friendliness.
4. Support home based businesses, provided that they are clearly secondary and incidental
to the principal residential use.
5. Encourage the development of attached suites in single-detached homes.
6. Encourage lower density developments northeast of the Town Centre.
7. Consider manufactured home subdivisions within neighbourhoods provided the adjacent
properties are minimally affected by concerns such as increases in traffic, unsightly
premises, etc.
8. Consider manufactured home parks in areas designated for residential development
provided that they have direct access to a major roadway, are buffered from conventional
residential development and are located toward the fringe of the residential areas.
9. Require all manufactured home subdivisions to comply with all other relevant District
bylaws.
10. Work collaboratively with senior levels of government to develop Crown Lands as
necessary.
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5.2.2
Medium Density Residential
The medium density residential land use designation is designed to facilitate the development
of residential areas containing primarily multi-unit dwellings.
Policies:
1.
Encourage new medium-density residential development to include a range of housing
types such as:
a)
Triplexes and fourplexes;
b)
Ground-oriented multi-unit housing (townhouses or row houses);
c)
Low-rise multi-unit housing (up to four stories); and
d)
Universally accessible homes of all types.
2. Ensure that new residential areas are efficiently located adjacent to existing
developments in order to:
a)
Minimize future maintenance costs; and
b)
Capitalize on the District's existing infrastructure.
3. Encourage multi-unit developments, such as townhouses, row houses or apartments, to
locate in or near the Town Centre or at the edge of neighbourhoods facing onto major
roads.
4. Encourage in-fill development wherever possible to better utilize existing infrastructure.
5. Ensure that required parking areas for multi-unit residential developments include Crime
Prevention Through Environmental Design principles in their design and construction.
6. Ensure that individual units, their entries and private outdoor spaces are designed to
maximize privacy and clearly delineate private and common spaces.
7. Ensure multi-unit residential developments are consistent with development permit area
guidelines.
8. Incorporate winter community elements into planning and design of new residential
subdivisions.
9. Ensure that the planning and design of new residential subdivisions reflects universally
accessible design elements.
10. Encourage higher density developments south of Highway 97.
11. Direct the following types of special housing to areas designated as Medium Density
Residential:
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a)
Group homes;
b)
Extended care facilities;
c)
Retirement homes providing intermediate or extended care services;
d)
Community care housing; and
e)
Seniors and special needs housing.
12. Consider density bonusing where special needs or affordable housing is provided.
5.3
Commercial
The majority of the District's commercial
development is concentrated in the downtown
area just off of Don Philips Way (smaller retail
and office space) and along Highway 97 (larger
retail, office space, tourist accommodations
and
highway
commercial).
The
District's
priority for commercial development is to
strengthen the role of the Town Centre within
the community.
General Objectives:
1.
Recognize and retain the existing commercial businesses that exist within Chetwynd.
2. Seek to diversify the District's economic base.
General Policies:
1.
Encourage a range of commercial uses that meets the needs of both residents and
visitors.
2. Focus and encourage the establishment of local commercial developments.
3. Support the development of a range of tourism accommodations, services and activities
that cater to tourists.
4. Ensure that required parking areas for commercial developments include Crime
Prevention Through Environmental Design principles in their design and construction.
5. Encourage the development of vacant lands within Chetywnd.
6. Investigate opportunities to encourage infill development within Chetwynd.
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5.3.1
Town Centre Commercial
The Town Centre of Chetwynd is more than just a business district. It is the heart and focal
point of the community, and it is the District's desire to encourage the development of a strong
Town Centre. Intensive retail, office and similar commercial functions will be directed to a
defined area centered on the present commercial core. Commercial uses of a more space
extensive nature, or generally requiring a lower degree of pedestrian access, such as highway
commercial uses, will be directed to areas on the periphery of the Town Centre.
The Town Centre is developing into a multi-functional node of activity in the District. This
includes non-commercial uses as well as commercial. It is surrounded on the north by
residential and industrial land uses, on the east by the Canfor sawmill, on the south by Highway
97 and on the west by highway commercial land uses. A strong public institutional district has
developed to the west end of the Town Centre and includes the new District Hall, Fire Hall,
District Parks Building, Ambulance Depot, hospital, RCMP detachment, Seniors Housing,
Seniors' Activity Hall, two parks and an elementary school. The Town Centre also contains a
mix of residential housing ranging from single detached dwellings to apartments.
Objectives:
1.
Ensure that all residents and visitors are able to access any business in the Town Centre
within a 10 minute walk of another in that area.
2. Retain existing businesses and attract new businesses to the Town Centre.
3. Foster an attractive, convenient, and pedestrian-friendly downtown by increasing such
aspects as the number of key streetscape and sidewalk elements, low maintenance
landscaping, lighting, and enhancing gateway elements into the downtown.
Policies:
1.
Encourage all retail commercial, personal service, institutional, multi-unit residential and
urban parks and open space development to locate in the Town Centre area.
2. Continue to support the revitalization of Chetwynd's commercial areas, particularly the
Town Centre area.
3. Promote and develop incentives for the development of existing vacant and underutilized
lands.
4. Support the creation of a new commercial area revitalization strategy to accommodate
future growth and community needs.
5. Initially direct future expansion of the Town Centre westward across Windrem Creek and
in the longterm, direct expansion of the Town Centre eastward through the current
industrial lands.
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6. Encourage development and redevelopment along both sides of Windrem Creek where
it passes through the Town Centre area.
7. Support the connection of the institutional area west of Windrem Creek to the Town
Centre through the extension of 50th Avenue via 53rd Street to connect with Hospital
Road.
8. Encourage shopping centre development only in the Town Centre area until the District
reaches a population of 6,000 people.
9. Encourage mixed commercial and residential development within the Town Centre area
to broaden and diversify the activities in the area and to stimulate the development of the
Town Centre as a "people place" rather than simply a centre of commerce.
10. Encourage redevelopment and increased density through in-fill throughout the Town
Centre area.
11. Improve and increase the number of key streetscape and sidewalk elements in the Town
Centre to maintain the District's unique character (e.g low maintenance landscaping,
decorative lighting, street furniture).
12. Ensure town centre commercial developments are consistent with development permit
area guidelines.
5.3.2
Highway Commercial
Highway Commercial land uses cater to primarily highway and tourist traffic, including vehicle
services, restaurants, motels and other retail services, meeting the needs of the travelling
public. These uses require easy access to and from the highway. In Chetwynd, Highway
Commercial areas are located along Highways 97 and 29 North. Some Highway Commercial
uses in Chetwynd also include those more traditionally found in the Town Centre Commercial
designation, such as retail stores and personal services establishments, in order to ensure that
the community is more walkable and the services that residents need are provided.
In Chetwynd, Highway Commercial land uses are largely influenced by resource development
in Northeastern BC and regional tourism. While it is anticipated that increased demands for
highway commercial space will continue, Chetwynd appears to have sufficient Highway
Commercial land available for the foreseeable future, specifically along Highway 97 near
Westgate Road and infill opportunities near the Town Centre.
Objectives:
1.
Provide adequate land for commercial-specific developments along designated highways
to facilitate economic development, supporting local residents and industry.
2. Retain existing businesses and attract new businesses to the community.
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3. Encourage commercial ventures that promote tourism and accommodate travellers in all
four seasons.
4. Ensure that commercial businesses are accessible to seniors and individuals with mobility
limitations.
Policies:
1.
Encourage redevelopment throughout Highway Commercial areas.
2. Support retail commercial and personal service establishments to locate in the Highway
Commercial area, in addition to uses that cater to the needs of the travelling public, such
as vehicle services, restaurants, motels and other retail services.
3. Prioritize vacant or underutilized properties designated as Highway Commercial for infill,
redevelopment and intensification before designating any new areas of Highway
Commercial.
4. Require new commercial developments to connect to municipal water and sewer
services.
5. New highway commercial developments shall ensure adequate accessibility for vehicles,
transit, pedestrians, cyclists, and people of all abilities.
6. Encourage large-scale accommodations for visitors to locate adjacent or within close
proximity to existing commercial areas.
7. Ensure highway commercial developments are consistent with development permit area
guidelines.
8. Encourage commercial uses to front inbound roadways into the District and beautify the
enterances to the District.
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5.4 Industrial
In Chetwynd, the mill establishment and the rail
yards are the major users of heavy industrial
lands. In addition, there are five heavy industrial
satellite sites which accommodate a sawmill,
pulp
mill,
gas
processing
plant,
sulphur
processing plant, and a coal mine.
Currently there is enough vacant land within the
district to accommodate anticipated future
industrial land use. Light Industrial and Heavy
Industrial subdivided lands are available in the
northeast area of the District, adjacent to the
railroad. However, existing available industrial
lands are located in an area of peaty soils that may
limit the kind of industrial development that
could occur on the lands. Additional industrial
lands with suitable soil conditions and access to
the railroad may need to be identified.
The Chetwynd Municipal Airport is centrally located in Chetwynd and serves as a vital
transportation link for industry and emergency health and air ambulance services.
Objectives:
1.
Provide adequate amounts of industrial designated land to facilitate economic
development without contributing to industrial sprawl.
2. Support and promote local resource industries by encouraging commercial enterprises
that support industrial development.
3. Promote renewable and/or energy efficient practices in local industries.
4. Encourage heavy industry uses within municipal boundaries to locations that do not
adversely affect adjacent incompatible land uses.
Policies:
1.
Consider the development of a light industrial park with minimum rural type services in
specially selected areas at the edge of the community.
2. Ensure that airport facilities can safely and efficiently handle future air traffic and ensure
the health, safety and welfare of people on adjacent land uses.
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3. Consider future boundary extension opportunities that will ensure the financial
sustainability of the District of Chetwynd, and initiate early and ongoing conversations
with other levels of government.
4. Direct bulk fuel stations and bulk fuel facilities to industrial lands that offer sites along
designated truck routes to ensure that highway truck traffic does not interfere with Town
Centre and Highway Commercial uses.
5. Light industrial uses should only be permitted to the extent that they do not generate any
significant noise, odours, toxic waste or increased heavy truck traffic associated with heavy
industrial uses.
6. Encourage infill of existing industrial centres before creating new, undeveloped industrial
areas.
7. Encourage the subdivision and/or amalgamation of existing parcels to facilitate infill of
existing industrial areas.
8. Consider permitting smaller minimum parcel sizes and increased parcel coverages for
light industrial parcels that contain non-typical industrial type uses, such as research
facilities, office parks, industrial studio spaces and live-work industrial shops and studios.
9. Ensure a diversity of parcel sizes are available to accommodate a variety of industrial uses.
5.5 Institutional
The majority of the District's institutional and
public facilities are contained within three
separate areas:
-
The area west of the Town Centre - this
area is comprised of the District of
Chetwynd Office, Fire Hall, RCMP station,
Ambulance Depot, District Parks Building,
Seniors Housing, Seniors' Activity Hall, two
parks, an elementary school, cemetery
and hospital;
-
The area located south of Highway 97
North - this area includes the Post Office,
YMCA Daycare, Medical Clinic and the
Northern Lights College Chetwynd Campus; and
-
The area located in the eastern portion of the District - this area includes the high school,
library, skateboard park, arena, curling rink and wave pool, interconnected with
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numerous outdoor recreational facilities. The District is currently in the early stages of
developing a splash park for the community.
Other schools, churches, social and cultural facilities are located throughout the community.
These facilities are adequate for the current and future population and there is sufficient space
allocated for future expansions of existing facilities and the construction of new facilities.
Objectives:
1.
Provide a sufficient amount of institutional designated land to facilitate long-term
sustainable community development.
2. Thoughtfully maintain and enhance public institutional facilities, including education,
health care, and recreational facilities.
3. Ensure that all institutional facilities are accessible and beneficial to residents.
4. Promote the community feel of the District through the use of institutional facilities.
Policies:
1.
Promote
sustainable
and
energy
efficient
practices
in
the
District
through
implementation in institutional facilities.
2. Ensure land uses located peripherally to the existing hospital site are planned to not
impede or limit any future on-site expansion of the hospital.
3. Work collaboratively with School District No. 59 to plan for and identify future school sites,
should development present the need.
4. Work with School District 59 and the Provincial Government to encourage future school
sites to be located with direct access to collector roadways and be centrally located with
respect to their "catchment" area to minimize student walking distance.
5. Accommodate convenient pedestrian access to school sites from surrounding residential
developments.
6. Encourage schools to be located contiguous to neighborhood parks or other open spaces
in order to allow joint facility usage wherever possible.
7. Support the Chetwynd Public Library and its partners in their efforts to achieve the
strategic objectives set forth in the Chetwynd Public Library Strategic Plan.
8. Encourage major public facilities and institutions to locate in the western area of the Town
Centre Area.
9. Support the growth and development of the Northern Lights College Chetwynd Campus.
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10. Encourage partnerships with neighbouring First Nations in the development of new
institutional facilties.
11. Support permitting cultural centres and community centres, including community care
facilities, within institutional, residential, and commercial areas of the District, as
appropriate.
12. Encourage institutional facilities to provide opportunities for community use of their
properties for indoor programming and both indoor and outdoor recreation uses, where
possible.
13. Encourage social enterprises to partner with institutional organizations to work towards
achieving a sustainable future by using shared facilities and spaces for the delivery of
social enterprise programming. Social enterprises could encompass a range of
programming, including but not limited to daycares, cafes, pre-schools, skills and literacy
training, or vehicle/bike share programs.
14. Promote cycling within the District by encouraging institutional facilities to provide year
round outdoor bike storage.
15. Encourage new institutional developments to incorporate winter city elements into their
designs.
16. Consider Indigenous and historical names for new institutional facilities and civic
infrastructure.
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5.6
Parks, Trails &
Greenspaces
Parks, natural areas and trails have been
found to be key contributors to the quality of
life of a community. Active lifestyles are the
foundations to developing a lasting healthy
and sustainable community in the present
and future. The District of Chetwynd has a
full range of recreation, sports and leisure
facilities and also contains a wide variety of
greenspaces ranging from manicured parks
and open spaces to minimally maintained
natural
conservation
areas.
Chetwynd's
recreation facilities are well-used and the
current high standards will be maintained.
Objectives:
1.
Provide accessible, well-maintained, and enjoyable parks, trails, and greenspaces that
provide a range of environmental, social and economic benefits for the District.
2. Expand the District's trail and greenspace network to provide safe, alternative recreational
and community routes within connecting neighbourhoods.
Policies:
1.
Require the developer of new residential areas to provide 5% of the gross developable area
to the District for parkland in each phase of a residential subdivision, or pay cash-in-lieu.
Cash collected in lieu of parkland will be placed in the District's parkland fund.
2. Locate parks next to elementary school sites, wherever possible.
3. Use the Chetwynd Parks and Open Space Standards to guide parkland acquisition and
development.
4. Ensure there is sufficient park and recreation space, based on the Chetwynd Parks and
Open Space standards, to accommodate future population growth.
5. Promote a variety of means of public access to watercourses.
6. Identify, protect and enhance public views and vistas within the District's parks, trails,
open space and natural areas.
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7. Consider identifying lands within the District to become areas for small scale community
gardening activities and small scale local food production for local non-profit
organizations.
8. Encourage the continued improvement of the grounds of the Chetwynd & District
Recreation Centre.
9. Consider updating all of the trails and parks in the District to be accessible and include
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design principles in their design and
construction.
10. Promote winter activities in parks, trails, and greenspaces for year-round use and active
living.
11. Consider Indigenous and historical names for new parks, trails, and greenspaces.
12. Plant locally native trees in conjunction with the development of new trails.
13. When new parkland is opened, consider acquiring natural, low maintenance areas, or
lands in a natural undeveloped state for ease of maintenance.
14. Consider expanding the Windrem Creek trail to 47th Avenue NW to create a complete
east-west connection throughout Chetwynd.
15. Encourage local service clubs and community groups to assist in developing and
maintaining parks.
16. Consider updating the Parks, Trails & Greenspace Plan.
17. Ensure that all park acquisitions are accessible to all residents, especially seniors,
individuals with mobility limitations, and individuals with social disadvantages.
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6.0 Community Development
"The chainsaw carvings bring art to the community
as well as the art exhibits and art classes."
6.1 Partnerships and Inclusion
Partnerships are an essential tool for achieving the District of Chetwynd's vision. Joint efforts
involving local governments, the provincial government, the private sector, community
organizations and individuals are crucial for enhancing the inclusivity of the community.
Maintaining and strengthening partnerships among stakeholders in the region are a priority
to the District.
General Policies:
1.
Continue to foster partnerships with non-profit organizations within the District and
non-profit organizations in neighbouring communities.
2. Continue to advocate to Northern Health to encourage medical professionals to locate
within the community and work together on long-term retention strategies for that
profession.
3. Ensure that any development within an 800-metre radius of a controlled access
highway is approved by the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure.
4. Encourage involvement and inclusivity with local business and organizations within the
District.
5. Explore further opporunities to collaborate with partners and senior governments in the
provision of high speed Boradband internet within Chetwynd.
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6.1.1
Local Government Partnerships
The formation of strong partnerships with neighbouring local governments is vital to the long-
term sustainability and resiliency of a community. As strides are made towards creating the
Chetwynd that is envisioned in 2040, it remains a priority for the District to maintain and build
new partnerships with its neighbouring communities.
Policies:
1.
Encourage the formation of a committee or working group to advise both the District
of Chetwynd and the Peace River Regional District throughout the process for large-
scale planning projects.
2. Continue to develop strong relationships and collaborate with the provincial
government on initiatives that are of importance to the District of Chetwynd and
directed by the province.
3. Continue to work collaboratively with the Peace River Regional District to enhance the
referral processes for both jurisdictions and ensure that referrals are done in an
expedient and timely manner.
4. Encourage beneficial partnerships with nearby communities, where appropriate.
6.1.2
Indigenous Partnerships
The District of Chetwynd is located within close proximity to the Saulteau First Nations, the
West Moberly First Nations, and McLeod Lake Indian Band (Tse'Khene Nation). A significant
number of First Nations citizens live in the region where the District of Chetwynd is located, as
well as in the community itself. There are many aligned and mutually beneficial economic
objectives between the District and local First Nations in relation to land development.
Collaboratively, the District and its neighbouring First Nations have, and will continue to
develop, strategic partnerships that mutually benefit all.
Policies:
1.
Acknowledge and respect Indigenous communities and their role in our community's
history and development.
2. Support awareness and recognition of Indigenous communities and the importance of
respecting treaty rights.
3. Be proactive in discussions with local First Nations regarding their Treaty Land
Entitlement objectives and potential land acquisitions within and outside of the District.
4. Work in partnership with local First Nations for the betterment of all residents within
their communities and Chetwynd, and the strengthening of all communities.
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5. Continue to develop frameworks and processes for establishing Memorandums of
Understanding with Indigenous communities to strengthen partnerships and keep
working together on mutually beneficial projects.
6.2 Hazardous Areas
In the interest of public safety, and in order to protect public and private investment in the
community, it is important that potentially hazardous areas are identified and policies
established to avoid hazardous situations. Within Chetwynd, potentially hazardous areas
include:
-
The steep hillside portions of the northwest residential area
-
Flood prone areas associated with Pine River, Windrem, Centurion, Widmark and
Fernando Creeks
-
Areas of high water table and unstable soil conditions
Although Chetwynd is not situated within a floodplain, Windrem Creek has flooded due
to unusual weather conditions. The Provincial Flood Hazard Area Land Use Management
Guidelines is intended to protect against the loss of life and minimize property damage, injury,
and trauma and therefore should be supported in regard to protection from creek flooding.
Steep slopes greater than 20%, which are areas of potentially unstable soil conditions, pose a
barrier to development and are considered to be undevelopable for most of northern British
Columbia, unless a suitable building site can be established by a geotechnical engineering
report. Development along the northwest portion of the District will be affected by steep
slopes.
High water table and unstable soil conditions affect areas throughout the District and
currently require geotechnical reports or engineered basements.
Schedule E shows the Natural Assets within and around the District.
Policies:
1.
Only permit development in accordance with the advice of a qualifed professional.
2. Support the provincial Flood Hazard Area Land Use Management Guidelines objectives.
3. Encourage agricultural, park and outdoor recreation uses on flood prone lands.
4. Encourage residential land uses to locate in areas not susceptible to flooding.
5. Ensure that when development does occur on flood prone lands, that buildings are flood
proofed to standards established by the provincial government.
6. Encourage the use of below ground basements in areas not prone to high water tables
and having springs from escarpments.
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7. Encourage development to occur away from potentially unstable land along water
courses or escarpments.
8. Consider permitting development on steep slopes greater than 20% only if a suitable
building site can be established by a geotechnical engineering report.
9. Investigate and implement methods of wildfire abatement and recognize FireSmart BC
as a source of information.
6.3 Transportation
The shift in transportation mode choices and a
growing need for new forms of travel within the
District will be addressed in collaboration with
available partners and Chetwynd. Ensuring that
alternative forms of travel exist while maintaining and
improving an efficient and safe traffic network will
enhance resident mobility, improve health and well-
being, and allow the District to accommodate future
anticipated growth.
Policies:
1.
Support the development of a District of Chetwynd Transportation Plan to
accommodate current and future needs of the community.
2. Encourage infill development before expanding into greenfield areas without services.
3. Require new residential development to include paved streets and underground
utilities in accordance with all other relevant District bylaws.
4. Phase new road development in a manner that best uses existing District of Chetwynd
services.
5. Ensure that new residential, commercial or industrial development along Highways 97
and 29N is coordinated and approved by the provincial government.
6. Strategically identify and develop safe pedestrian walkways linking homes, schools, and
recreational facilities with the Town Centre, and the highway with the Post Office.
7. Work towards paving all arterial and collector roads identified on Schedule F, and
continue to upgrade existing transportation infrastructure through the implementation
of an ongoing road paving program.
8. Ensure that any new development located within close proximity to railway operations
or rail yards should implement the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) and the
Railway Association of Canada (RAC) guidelines.
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9. Encourage the development of community-driven volunteer programs, such as
ridesharing and carpooling, that focus on providing transportation options for residents
within Chetwynd and between communities.
10. Promote accessible ride sharing opportunities for seniors and residents with mobility
challenges to create a flexible, accessible, affordable, and safe transportation system.
11. Consider the coordination of new bicycle facitlities in conjunction with road
improvements and other major infrastructure projects to support an accessible cycle
network.
12. Ensure new infrastructure is universally accessible.
13. Explore ways new development can improve and create additional pedestrian and
cycling facilities, such as reducing pedestrian barriers, increasing opportunities for
crossing busy roads safely, and providing direct routes to transit, schools, recreation
facilities, and businesses.
14. Continue to develop the District's trail network with the objective of connecting all
neighborhoods and key destinations inside and outside the community over time.
6.4
Municipal
Infrastructure
The
District
of
Chetwynd's
municipal
infrastructure has a vital role in supporting the
community
and
ensuring
it's
continued
growth.
Municipal
infrastructure
provides
essential services to the community, as well as
many benefits to industry in and around
Chetwynd.
Any
enhancement
and/or
expansion to infrastructure should take into
consideration the impacts that both the
community and industry will have on it into the
future. In addition, cost recovery mechanisms
should consider all current and future users.
The District collects municipal sewage using a conventional gravity sewer system. There are
three small lift stations and one major lift station that collect sewage and ultimately pumps it
to a treatment facility located south of the Chetwynd airport. The treatment facility currently
includes one concrete complete mix tank with a provision for a second in the future, three
aerated aerobic lagoons, and one polishing cell. Treated effluent then flows by gravity to the
Pine River. The District's lagoons were constructed in 1991 and upgrades have been completed
in recent years. The District's discharge is governed by the provincial government.
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The District of Chetwynd obtains its water from the Pine River. An intake structure and low lift
pump station pump water from the river approximately 1.7 km to three raw water ponds. These
ponds are operated in series starting with a 4 M gallon lined pond, followed by the second (11
M gallon) and third (29 M gallon) unlined ponds. The settled water is pumped from the third
pond into the water treatment plant, where a coagulant is added and the water is filtered
through a two-stage process (roughing filter followed by a rapid sand filter). The filtered water
is then disinfected using ultraviolet lamps. Chlorine is added and after sufficient contact time,
the water is pumped from the high lift pump station to the distribution system via a 1.1 km
trunkmain.
The water system supply is supplemented by a deep artesian well located southeast of the
water treatment plant. This well was developed after the Pine River was contaminated by an
oil spill in August 2000, and is maintained as an emergency backup. The water from this well
is treated by the same treatment process that treats the water from the Pine River. A second
small temporary containerized water treatment plant was installed in 2007 to provide peaking
supply during the summer months when the main treatment plant reaches its operating
capacity.
The water distribution system is comprised of two above-ground steel reservoirs (each 550,000
USL gal) and a system of mainly PVC piping, generally between 150 - 200 mm in diameter.
There are also 2 pressure reducing stations that allow water to enter the lower zone from the
higher zone.
The District's storm sewer system consists of ditches, piping and creeks. There are currently no
treatment works for storm sewer other than settlement in catch basins. Storm sewer exits the
pipe network into ditches, which then run into Windrem Creek and Centurion Creek, and
eventually into the Pine River.
Like many communities in BC and nationally, a significant portion of the District's
underground infrastructure is in its latter years of service and the needs for repair and
replacement often exceeds available resources. In addition, the harsh winter climate also
contributes to the degradation of the District's infrastructure.
Policies:
1.
Support infrastructure improvements that benefit the municipality as a whole.
2. Ensure that any expansion to municipal infrastructure takes into consideration life-cycle
costs and that these costs are incorporated in any cost-recovery program.
3. Continue to implement the recommendations of the 2014 Water Master Plan as funds
permit.
4. Consider investigating and implementing options to increase water efficiency for
residents.
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5. Continue to develop five-year capital plans that ensures that the District continues to
maintain and expand its infrastructure and meet the needs of the community and
Peace River Agreement.
6. Review water and sewer rates to ensure that they are equitable and adequate to cover
future maintenance, repair and upgrade costs in a financially sustainable manner.
7. Continue to repair and replace water, sewer and storm distribution and collection
systems and roads on an on-going basis.
8. Provide leadership to property developers by designing water-wise/xeriscape
landscaping for District lands and facilities, such as boulevards, sports fields and parks,
to conserve water while ensuring proper maintenance and function.
9. Encourage development to locate on parcels that are already serviced or on lands that
are adjacent to existing municipal infrastructure wherever possible.
10. Develop a Sewer Master Plan to guide future sewer infrastructure planning and
construction.
11. Develop and implement an asset management plan to ensure the District's
infrastructure is repaired or replaced in a systemic manner.
12. Support the findings of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure's Highway 97
and Highway 29 Transportation Study.
6.5 Economic Development
The District of Chetwynd's local economy is largely
centered around natural resource-based operations
in the surrounding areas, with the community being
the service hub for industry, rural residents, and
residents housed in worker camps both within and
outside of the District. While the District has a robust
resource-based economy, transitioning to a more
diverse economy is a priority for the community. An
example of this diversification is the Renewable
Hydrogen
Canada
project
that
will
see
the
construction of an electrolyzer plant set to produce 60
tonnes of hydrogen per day. The project is still
pending approval by regulatory authorities. In addition to economic diversification and
pursuing new economic development activities, also ensuring the retention of existing
businesses in Chetwynd will all work together to provide the District and its residents with
financial stability in the long-term.
Policies:
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1.
Promote the diversification of the local economy to ensure that Chetwynd remains
resilient and financially stable over the long-term.
2. Communicate with local industries regarding what their commercial and service needs
are and use that information to assist potential entrepreneurs and the local business
community in developing new commercial ventures.
3. Encourage and support the development of community-led economic initiatives like
co-ops, farmers markets and community markets.
4. Support and encourage local entrepreneurship and seek mechanisms that enable the
development of small business in the community.
5. Promote programs and services that support local investment and businesses.
6. Continue to promote and implement the "Our Future" Economic Development
Strategy, and adapt the strategy as necessary.
7. Continue to work towards creating a cohesive community core that can be used to
attract new commercial activity and become a greater commercial hub for the region.
8. Strive towards a diverse economy that emphasizes the importance of balance between
large industry, Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises and entrepreneurship in order for
equitable employment opportunities.
9. Work with business lending organizations (i.e. Community Futures, Business
Development Bank of Canada) to prepare community services specific to the District of
Chetwynd and provide space and calendar of activity.
10. Continue communicating with local First Nations regarding the establishment of First
Nations owned commercial ventures within the District.
11. Work with the local business community and District residents in identifying means for
the local economy to benefit from the presence of neighboring worker camps without
impacting the current quality of life in Chetwynd.
12. Encourage the development of a Tourism Strategy to enhance the District's growing
tourism industry.
13. Continue supporting efforts in downtown beautification.
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6.6
Housing
The District of Chetwynd acknowledges the
growing and evolving housing needs for its
residents, as identified in Chetwynd's Housing
Needs Assessment Report (2021). Chetwynd will
continue to be proactive in working towards
ensuring sufficient housing of different types,
tenures
and
affordability.
Collaborative
approaches with the public and private sectors
will ensure that various stakeholder groups and
agencies work together in ensuring that the
housing needs of the District are met well into
the future.
Policies:
1.
Continue to update and promote the District's Vacant Land Inventory to aid in
encouraging new development in Chetwynd by identifying lands that are vacant and/or
underutilizied and available for different types of development.
2. Support both market and non-market housing partnerships and opportunities to meet
housing demands in the community, including affordable and accessible housing and
the changing needs of residents at all stages of their life.
3. Promote the development of a balanced housing stock capable of meeting the needs
of various age groups, family types, abilities, lifestyles and income groups through such
elements as increases in density and reduced parking requirements.
4. Initiate discussions with social agencies and the provincial government regarding the
development of new affordable and seniors housing to accommodate current and
future needs.
5. Encourage new senior-oriented housing to be located within a 400 meter radius from
the town centre, community services and other needed amenities.
6. Encourage the retrofit and renovation of existing homes to ensure that the current
housing stock maintains good condition and allows residents to age-in-place.
7. Create, adopt, and regularly update an Affordable Housing Strategy to ensure that a
proactive approach is taken to facilitate affordable housing.
8. Ensure that the District's Housing Needs Assessment is reguarly updated to enable the
District to remain apprised of housing needs and trends in the community.
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6.7
Arts, Culture, Heritage
From its establishment as "Little Prairie" to its growth as one
of the largest communities in the Peace River Region, the
District of Chetwynd has a rich heritage and well-developed
local culture. Its development as a community has also
resulted in growing social needs that need to be addressed
in order to maintain long-term community sustainability.
The District acknowledges both the importance of
promoting local culture and heritage, while ensuring the
evolving social needs of residents are met.
Policies:
1.
Identify opportunities to support the growth of the local arts community.
2. Pursue opportunities to further diversify the local economy through strategic
investments and supports to local festivals and events that showcase local culture, arts
and heritage (i.e. International Chainsaw Carving Championships).
3. Explore ways to preserve, embrace and showcase the heritage of the District.
4. Promote community driven events and festivals that showcase Chetwynd's cultural
and heritage assets and draw visitors on a regional scale.
5. Continue to protect Chetwynd's heritage in accordance with provincial legislation. This
may include acquiring, conserving and developing heritage sites, gaining knowledge
about the community's history and heritage, and other activities to conserve the
District's historical, cultural, aesthetic, scientific and educational heritage.
6.8 Social Health and Wellness
A community with a strong social, health and wellness
focus is a resilient and thriving community. Health can
be defined as a state of complete physical, mental and
social well-being. Wellness is the act of practicing
healthy habits on a daily basis to attain better mental
and physical health outcomes. Investing in health and
wellness is important to the economic, environmental
and social prosperity and livelihood of our families and
community. Access to needed health and social
services, including childcare, health care services,
education and poverty supports, many of which are
provided by other levels of government and social
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organizations, is vital. The District has a role to play in supporting health and social
organizations in delivering the services required to maintain a resilient and thriving
community.
Policies:
1.
Continue to build a community that is inclusive and healthy, where residents feel socially
connected and have opportunities to thrive.
2. Support social and non-profit organizations in the community in achieving their
objectives and accessing funding from other levels of government.
3. Seek partnerships that increase the District's accessibility to all age groups through the
development, customization and implementation of the Social Planning & Research
Council of British Columbia's (SPARC) various Accessible Community Bylaws.
4. Continue to encourage and support the development of community-led volunteer
initiatives that seek to address social needs in Chetwynd (i.e. Meals on Wheels, seniors'
drivers, food banks).
5. Continue to recognize and support the important contributions of volunteers and non-
profit groups and agencies that bring significant value to the community.
6. Promote the integration of new residents into the community's social fabric, including
individuals employed and living in surrounding worker camps.
7. Work with the provincial government and other agencies and stakeholders to ensure
that social service needs continue to be met in the future with new population growth.
8. Encourage and pursue multi-sector partnerships with Northern Health, the school
district, Indigenous populations and social agencies to provide services, infrastructure
and programming to support overall community health and wellness
9. Encourage multi-sector partnerships to address issues related to homelessness, food
security, mental health and addiction.
10. Continue to support properties or buildings owned or leased by non-profit organizations
to provide social, cultural or recreational services and programs for public benefit
through such programs as annual property tax exemptions.
11. Support the integration of community services, such as places of worship, schools, care
centres, group homes and seniors housing, into residential areas where appropriate.
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6.9 Creating an Inclusive and Accessible Chetwynd
Creating accessible and age-friendly communities is a
growing priority in Canada and throughout the world.
An accessible and multi-generational Chetwynd refers
to a community that supports the specific needs of
different age groups and persons who live with a
disability. Improving the lives of seniors, youth and
persons with disabilities by considering their needs in
the development of a community improves the
livelihoods of all citizens in a community. In order to
increase multi-generational inclusivity, the District
wants to strengthen policies for both seniors and youth
by increasing age-friendliness and adequate childcare
spaces within the community. In 2020, the District of
Chetwynd worked with the community to develop two Action Plans to address accessibility
challenges for seniors and individuals seeking adequate childcare services.
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6.9.1 Age-Friendly Policies
The District of Chetwynd's Age-Friendly Action
Plan was funded by the Union of BC Municipalities
Age-Friendly Communities grant for the purpose
of developing an age-friendly action plan in
tandem with the District's Official Community
Plan. Policies in both the Action Plan and Official
Community Plan will help move Chetwynd closer
towards its goal of being a community that
supports and promotes aging in place, active
aging, and inclusivity for all.
Policies:
1.
Work with partners to implement the Age-Friendly Action Plan and Child Care Spaces
Creation Action Plan.
2. Advocate for increased health and social services and supports for all community
members.
3. Collaborate and partner with the Province, other local governments and other agencies
to enhance transportation services within and outside of the District.
4. Enhance the mobility of seniors and citizens through improved transportation and
mobility options around the community, such as trails and walkways.
5. Investigate tax exemptions for non-profit and private senior and affordable housing.
6. Encourage developers in the community to create new housing developments that
incorporate accessible design.
7. Investigate developing partnerships with local First Nations regarding future
opportunities to collaborate on elder/senior housing developments.
8. Enhance senior's participation in the development and implementation of programs,
policies, and plans that address the needs of seniors in the community.
9. Investigate programming and volunteer opportunities for seniors to participate in.
10. Seek out opportunities to collaborate with Northern Health on strategies to improve
communication and outreach to seniors and retaining medical staff in the District.
11. Encourage businesses to conduct improvements to become age friendly to increase
accessibility for seniors.
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12. Engage seniors in winter maintenance planning.
13. Encourage opportunities for seniors to engage with the broader community.
14. Support the creation of a Seniors Committee that includes a variety of stakeholders to
advise the District on how to best promote and enhance age-friendly and universal
design, and provide input on areas such as transportation initiatives, trails and
pedestrian sidewalks, winter maintenance, communicating and connecting (virtually or
in person), and other topics of interest to seniors.
6.9.2
Child Care Policies
The District of Chetwynd and the surrounding
region is defined as a childcare desert;
meaning that there is less than one childcare
space for every child between 0 and 12 years of
age. In 2020, the District was awarded funding
from the Union of BC Municipalities through
the Community Child Care Planning grant to
complete the Chetwynd Child Care Space
Creation Analysis and Action Plan. This
analysis established context for childcare
space creation targets to be incorporated into
the Official Community Plan.
Policies:
1.
Look for opportunities to significantly increase spaces for infant/toddler care.
2. Consider a sponsorship program to support training of local individuals to attain an Early
Childhood Education (ECE) certification.
3. Promote child care facilities to be built in new private development applications in
public buildings.
4. Explore the feasibility of providing an on-demand public transit system for the
community with special services designed for before and after school care.
5. Assess the viability for capital and operating grants to child care operators and in
partnerhsip with them, pursue funding opportunities that will facilitate the provison of
quality child care services within thecommunity.
6. Establish a Child Care Advocacy Working Group to address on-going challenges
regarding child care within the community such as transportation needs and
emergency planning.
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6.10 Parks & Recreation
Providing
a
diverse
range
of
recreational
opportunities and accessible space and facilities for
residents of all ages is critical to maintaining the
social and economic health of the District of
Chetwynd. Residents greatly appreciate having
access to the outdoors and envision Chetwynd in
2040 to include more parks and trails to enjoy.
Promoting an active lifestyle through the provision
of parks, trails and recreational facilities and
programming
greatly
enhances
community
livability, which also aids in attracting new economic
investment and development to the community.
"I would love to see an
outdoor splash park."
Policies:
1.
Continue to responsibly manage a working community forest that provides the
residents of Chetwynd with a continued and sustainable source of natural resource and
outdoor recreation opportunities.
2. Continue to implement the recommendations set forth in the Greenspace Trail System
with a special focus on the continued development of the Urban Trail Network.
3. Encourage developments that support passive recreation uses and resource
management activities for educational and employment training activities.
4. Evaluate development proposals on the basis of an environmental assessment and
sensitivity and respect for the natural character and quality of landscaping.
5. Review and update Boulevard Beautification and Tree Replacement Plan.
6. Review and update the Chetwynd Parks and Recreation Master Plan.
7. Promote universally accessible standards during the conception, design and
construction of new park and trail improvements.
8. Encourage community-led and funded initiatives to develop small scale community
gardening areas for personal or non-profit organization use.
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9. Maintain open and regular communication with the Peace River Regional District to
ensure collaboration in the provision of indoor and outdoor recreational facilities and
programming for residents.
10. Work with the community and Northern Health to promote active and healthy lifestyles.
11. Seek partnership opportunities to develop access to the Pine River as a passive source
for water based recreational activities.
12. Support the development of diverse outdoor parks such as a dog park and splash park
for residents.
13. Encourage planning and implementing more opportunities to provide residents with
outdoor winter activities.
6.11 Environmental Sustainability and Stewardship
Our environment contributes to the health and well-being of all residents. Chetwynd can
support environmental responsibility and stewardship by honoring the natural setting of the
District through community action.
The District has committed to lead by example through municipal operations and
maintenance practices for District facilities and infrastructure, as well as encouraging
environmental protection across the community. Conserving natural resources and protecting
sensitive areas enables important natural habitats to remain intact and ecologically healthy,
thereby contributing to the long-term sustainability of the area. Furthermore, practices that
promote energy efficiency will support Chetwynd's efforts to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions and the associated effects on climate change.
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Policies:
1.
Leverage support from the federal and provincial governments for "green" initiatives.
2. Collaborate with senior and regional governments, public agencies, community
organizations, businesses, and individuals for the coordination of climate resilience
planning, policies, and initiatives.
3. Implement the principles of sustainable development and smart growth through
informed and educated decisions about alternative technologies for infrastructure (e.g.
bioswales, solar energy, geothermal heating and cooling).
4. Develop natural solutions that support ecological responsibility using features such as
green spaces, landscaped boulevards, general landscaping and native tree planting.
5. Continue to improve water conservation throughout the District by educating residents
on water use habits and promoting conservation strategies through workshops,
information sessions, events, online resources and clear and informative water bills.
6. Support implementing a water accounting system (such as universal metering) to
identify areas that need attention, particularly Chetwynd's large volumes of
unaccounted water.
7. Implement water use audits for high water users within the District to understand water
use behaviour and identify reduction methods.
8. Introduce a water restriction schedule on non-essential uses during peak usage times.
9. Encourage landscaping techniques that reduce the need for irrigation when designing
and maintaining parks, natural areas and environmentally sensitive areas.
10. Focus on creating awareness regarding the impacts of flooding in the area, and work
towards adaptation planning and mitigating the effects of flooding by conducting
assessments and undertaking recommended actions from those assessments.
11. Strive to preserve lands with high environmental values such as the lands bordering
Centurion Creek, Windrem Creek and Widmark Creek and other natural drainage
channels, to promote nonintensive use of these areas for open space compatible with
preservation as drainage channels.
12. Protect fish habitat areas; the minimum leave strip for watercourses will be in
accordance with provincial regulations. Setback variances may be granted subject to
agreement between the District and the Province.
13. Work collaboratively with the Peace River Regional District to dispose of solid waste and
identify solutions to curb landfill demand.
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6.12 Energy Efficiency and
Climate Change
Access to affordable, reliable, and stable energy
supplies
is
fundamental
to
a
community's
economic well-being and sustainability. Long term
trends indicate that energy costs will continue to
increase, and it is probable that communities will
spend a greater portion of their budgets on energy
in the future.
Starting in 2008, the District of Chetwynd participated in both community and corporate
energy and emission planning processes, which were facilitated in collaboration with other
municipal governments within the Peace River. The 2009 Corporate Energy Plan and
Community Energy Plan outlined a baseline of corporate energy and GHG emissions,
corporate GHG reduction targets, key actions for meeting the reduction targets and
implementation measures. Since 2010, the District of Chetwynd has been involved in the
Government of British Columbia's Climate Action Revenue Incentive Program. As a part of this
program, the District was required to annually report the level of corporate GHG emissions and
findings indicate that the District decreased its GHG emissions from municipal operations by
approximately 26% since 2008 and decreased fossil fuel usage by 15% from 2008 to 2018.
The District recognizes the importance of promoting energy efficient practices and other
policies aimed towards minimizing the community's environmental footprint and
contributions towards climate change. Learning from past efforts and recent successes,
Chetwynd is interested in re-imagining its relationship with energy, climate action and climate
resiliency. The following policies will help the District lower its impact on the environment and
become a leader in reducing the effects of climate change.
Policies:
1.
Update the foundational "energy planning" information for the District and community
with the most recent data and information.
2. Support energy efficiency education programs for individuals and organizations.
3. Enhance social cohesion and community pride though local energy projects that will
bring the community together.
4. Engage community leaders, businesses and residents on a future "kick-start" climate
action initiative.
5. Endorse a 5 Year Climate Action Plan for implementing and monitoring sustainable
municipal operations that outlines how the District will achieve its targets for energy
efficiency and greenhouse gas emission reduction.
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6. Establish a Multi-Stakeholder Climate Action Team and host a series of brainstorming
sessions with the community at large to identify projects that are realistic, tangible and
have a high likelihood of success.
7. Encourage land use planning and site designs that promote energy efficiency, such as
solar
orientation,
compact
developments
and
sites
oriented
around
active
transportation.
8. Implement the District's Parks, Trails and Greenspace Plan in order to provide green
modes of transportation through the development of trail and greenway connections.
9. Utilize green spaces and natural vegetation to contribute to the reduction of
greenhouse gases.
10. Reduce the carbon footprint of Chetwynd where possible, through local "made in
Chetwynd" solutions.
11. Embrace and encourage the three R's - reduce, reuse, and recycle - to help curb landfill
demand and lower methane emissions from solid waste decomposition.
12. Support the efforts of the Peace River Regional District in the implementation of its solid
waste management program.
6.13 Financial Sustainability
The long-term sustainability of a community is largely based on maintaining financial viability
through cost-effective administration and service delivery, and a solid economic base.
Ensuring that there are sufficient employment opportunities for residents, a stable local tax
base and a financially accountable local government is of paramount importance.
Policies:
1.
Ensure that the financial implications for initiatives in the OCP are identified.
2. Consider alternative models that present more cost-effective forms of service delivery
and implement where possible.
3. Continue to implement measures and mechanisms to diversify the local economy to
ensure financial stability independent from resource based activities.
4. Work to incorporate surrounding industrial properties into the District that are largely
supported by the District's workforce and services.
5. Continue discussions with the Province regarding the establishment of a new industrial
tax rate and structure to provide the District with a more stable source of industrial tax
revenues.
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7.0 Development Permit Areas
"I like living in Chetwynd to have access to the
backcountry and the freedom to use the lakes,
rivers, wilderness"
7.1
Development Permit Area Intent
Section 488(1) of the Local Government Act allows Development Permit areas to be
established for one or more of the following purposes:
a) Protection of the natural environment, its ecosystems and biological diversity;
b) Protection of development from hazardous conditions;
c) Protection of farming;
d) Revitalization of an area in which a commercial use is permitted;
e) Establishment of objectives for the form and character of intensive residential
development;
f)
Establishment of objectives for the form and character of commercial, industrial, or
multi-family residential development;
g) In relation to an area in a resort region, establishment of objectives for the form and
character of development in the resort region;
h) Establishment of objectives to promote energy conservation;
i)
Establishment of objectives to promote water conservation; and
j)
Establishment of objectives to promote the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
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The District of Chetwynd has identified four Development Permit Areas where additional
development guidelines are required - the Town Centre Development Permit Area, the
Highway Commercial Development Permit Area, the Industrial Development Permit Area, and
the Medium Density Residential Development Permit Area. These areas are shown on
Schedule H in the Official Community Plan.
In order for Council to issue a Development Permit, fairly detailed information is required from
a developer before such development can proceed. The Design Guidelines are not intended to
be strict rules, but rather guidelines, as the name suggests, and recommendations that
developers and Council may follow in order to meet the intended character of the District of
Chetwynd.
7.2 Exemptions to Development Permits
1.
A Development Permit will not be required in the following instances:
a) Subdivision of land creating three or fewer additional lots;
b) Interior renovations or alterations with no changes to the exterior appearance or
design;
c) Construction of a single-family dwelling or a two-family (duplex) dwelling unit;
d) Construction or alteration of signs and canopies or awnings which conform to the
relevant Development Permit and Sign Bylaw Guidelines;
e) Emergency actions to prevent or minimize immediate threats to life or property;
f)
Addition, maintenance, or replacement of doors, windows, heating systems, ventilation
systems, air conditioning systems, or plumbing;
g) Alterations to landscape plantings provided that there is no loss of required landscaped
area;
h) Any renovations or alterations to improve accessibility and universal design features;
and
i)
Development where the intended use is limited to institutional, utility, infrastructure
and/or civic uses.
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7.3 Colour
Colours should reflect natural spring, summer, and fall colours - sky blue, cloud white, sky
sunset, water blue, aqua and reflective, with emphasis on forest greens to moss greens, leafy
greens to yellow to orange to red, field greens to soft yellows and tans, meadow greens with
scattered vibrant wildflower colours. Winter white of surrounding hills, black water, the winter
grey of clouds, and the black and white pattern of leafless trees against fields and hills.
Development is encouraged to coordinate style, look, and colour with surrounding
development as much as possible.
7.4 Highway Commercial
7.4.1
Area
This development permit area applies to all lands designated as Highway - Commercial in
Schedule H.
7.4.2
Justification
1.
Pursuant to subsections 488.1(d)(f) of the Local Government Act, the purpose of this
development permit area is to establish objectives for the following:
a) Revitalization of an area in which a commercial use is permitted; and
b) Establishment of objectives for the form and character of commercial, industrial, or
multi-family residential development.
7.4.3
Development Permit Area Objectives:
1.
The objectives of the Highway Commercial Development Permit Area are as follows:
a) Ensure that all development meets a consistently high standard of visual quality;
b) Improve the appearance of highway commercial properties in the District; and
c) Ensure that safe and efficient access is provided to these properties.
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7.4.4
Design Guidelines
Development Permits that are issued shall be substantially in accordance with the following:
7.4.4.1
Building Siting and Design
Orientation and Setbacks
1.
New development should strive to complement existing development and reflect similar
front yard setbacks, building height and massing.
2. The first two storeys of a building are encouraged to be located close to the front property
line, with additional storeys set back at least 4.5m from the front property line so as not to
impede views to or from adjacent properties.
3. The primary elevation and entrances of a building be oriented toward the street to support
pedestrian connection and safety. Where a building is located on a corner property the
building is to face both streets.
4. Buildings should be oriented to maximize sunlight exposure to absorb and retain heat
during winter months while providing shade from summer sun.
Form and Character
1.
Building shape should be sufficiently varied to create interest and avoid a monotonous
appearance. Long expanses of plain walls are discouraged. Long walls and large boxy
forms can be broken into individual sections using roof and facade articulation, and
vertical
features
to
create
the
appearance
of
smaller,
individual
storefronts.
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2. Construction design, where possible, should reflect the natural landscape around
Chetwynd, with peaked and sloped roofs rather than "prairie" flat. Roofs that include
dormers to break the roof line are encouraged.
3. Building roofs should be designed to prevent snow escape onto pedestrian areas.
4. Adherence to Universal Access design principles is encouraged and should comply with
the BC Building Code and Worksafe BC guidelines.
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Colour and Materials
1.
Building materials that reflect the natural surroundings of Chetwynd such as rock
(fractured rock or river rock) and wood should be used extensively where possible.
Materials which have an appearance similar to these natural surfaces may be acceptable.
2. The use of steel, corrugated metal, masonry block, and concrete as exterior finishes and
facing material is discouraged. Creative use of metal on roof forms is permitted.
3. Glass, in combination with natural materials, artfully used, is permissible. Multiple, large
sheets of glass walls are discouraged.
4. As Chetwynd is carving its way to success, the use of carved wood in the exterior façade
of buildings is encouraged. This could include carved door and window frames, and false
support members.
5. Select building materials that are recommended by FireSmart BC to reduce wildfire risk
and spread.
6. The palette of colours used on the main body of building exteriors should be colours that
are found in the Chetwynd area - earth tones, subtle and grey blues, greys, browns and
greens, fall yellows, oranges and reds. Monochromatic colour schemes with up to three
shades are encouraged.
7. Vibrant
accent
colours
are
encouraged
but
should
be
used
sparingly
and
counterbalanced with neutral colours and natural materials.
8. Large expanses of very bright or reflective colours are discouraged.
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Signage
1.
Ground oriented signs at the entrance to businesses along the highway corridor are
considered appropriate. Spot lighting is preferred over back lighting or neon lighting.
Signs that incorporate natural materials and colours are encouraged.
2. Signs of carved wood, or sandblasted wood are particularly encouraged to enhance
gateway elements in the town centre and in keeping with Chetwynd's overall direction of
carving to success (see also District of Chetwynd Sign Bylaw).
7.4.4.2
Open Space and Landscape Design
Design and Layout
1.
All work, including landscaping planning, design, installation and maintenance should be
executed to the Canadian Landscape Standard, industry requirements, national or
provincial standards, codes and regulations recognized by the Canadian Nursery
Landscape Association (CNLA), the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects (CSLA),
national master specification or other applicable trade associations.
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2. The following guidelines should be considered when developing a landscape plan for a
site in the Highway Commercial Development Permit Area:
a)
Aesthetics and functionality;
b)
Preservation of existing mature trees where possible;
c)
Provision of shade and visual interest in parking and outdoor areas; and
d)
Plant suitability and hardiness.
3. Site grading of landscape areas should aim to minimize the disruption of natural drainage
patterns, soil erosion and runoff by keeping irrigation and normal rainfall within property
lines and landscape areas.
4. Landscaping designs should maximize the use of vegetation that has low water
requirements. This can be accomplished through the retention of existing vegetation or
the planting of hardy, drought-tolerant native vegetation (e.g; native grasses, xeriscape
species).
5. Landscaping should be provided in order to soften the visual impacts of building edges,
as well as the interfaces between buildings and parking areas. A mix of deciduous and
coniferous vegetation is preferred, allowing landscaping to show in all seasons. Flower
displays are welcome in season.
6. Planting designs should follow the FireSmart Priority Zone setback recommendations
outlined by FireSmart BC. This includes ensuring that deciduous trees are planted at a
minimum distance of 1.5m from any principal building and that coniferous trees are
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planted a minimum of 10m from any principal building. Coniferous trees should be spaced
at a minimum of 3m between tree crowns and pruned to remove all branches to a height
of 2m from the ground.
7. Landscaping should be designed to shield buildings from strong winds and to retain solar
access for south facing walls and windows. Consider planting deciduous trees on the
south and east sides of buildings and coniferous trees on the north and west sides of
buildings to protect the building from direct sunlight during afternoon hours in summer
and to permit sunlight penetration in the winter.
8. Landscaping is to be sufficiently spaced and set back from pedestrian areas so as to
preserve sightlines and retain visibility from both private and public property.
Lighting
1.
All exterior lighting should be energy-efficient.
2. Exterior lighting should be provided for safety reasons and site security and to accentuate
building facades and features.
3. Exterior lighting should be directed toward the land use on the parcel, and away from any
adjacent residential use, Light pollution and over-spill illumination should be minimized.
4. Lighting should not be set in a way that will impact drivers on the highway or frontage
road.
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Screening and Buffering
1.
Where design proposals for new construction show development with setbacks for
parking, the plan should include provision for landscaping that would screen or separate
parking areas from the highway corridor.
2. Outdoor storage areas should be screened with fencing and/or vegetation. Garbage areas
should be fully enclosed and bear/wildlife proof.
3. Berms and landscaping may be used on the northwest side of walkways to protect site
users from snow and wind and to reduce snow drifting at building entrances.
7.4.4.3
Parking, Loading and Circulation
Pedestrian and Bicycle Facilities and Circulation
1.
Ensure that pedestrian circulation routes and crossings are well-identified to both
pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
2. Sites are to be designed to be universally accessible for all site users regardless of ability,
with easy to navigate circulation routes.
3. Safe and secure bicycle parking associated with the development is encouraged and may
be shared by adjoining businesses.
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Vehicle Parking, Loading, and Circulation
1.
Locate parking areas to the rear of buildings and ensure that parking areas are well-
identified from the road.
2. On-site loading and delivery areas should be located to the rear of buildings.
3. Locate snow storage areas in spaces that receive long periods of sunlight to quickly melt
snow, minimize impacts on vehicular and pedestrian traffic, and, where possible, be out
of sight from the road.
4. Large parking areas should be broken up with landscape islands and pedestrian
walkways. Landscape islands should contain drought- and salt-tolerant species.
5. Shared internal parking between adjacent developments in encouraged.
6. Ensure that pedestrian crossings are well-identified in order to increase safety for
pedestrians navigating between traffic parked on frontage roads, District boulevards, and
businesses.
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7.5 Town Centre
7.5.1
Area
This development permit area applies to all lands designated as Town Centre - Commercial in
Schedule H.
7.5.2
Justification
1.
Pursuant to subsections 488.1(d)(e)(f) of the Local Government Act, the purpose of this
development permit area is to establish objectives for the following:
a) Revitalization of an area in which a commercial use is permitted;
b) The form and character of intensive residential development; and
c) The form and character of commercial, industrial, or multiple dwelling housing
development.
The Town Center Development Permit area encompasses the properties bounded on the east
by Highway No. 29, on the south by Highway No. 97, on the west by approximately 54th St, and
on the north by the back of the lots fronting on 47th Avenue. As well, there is a large commercial
parcel located immediately north of the CN Rail line adjacent to 50th Street.
7.5.3
Development Permit Area Objectives
1.
The objectives of the Town Center Development Permit Area are as follows:
a) Ensure that new development strengthens the town center's status as the community
focal point;
b) Conserve and enhance the town center's character;
c) Enhance gateway elements into the town centre and
d) Realize the heritage, economic, cultural, and architectural potential of the town center.
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7.5.4
Design Guidelines
Development Permits which are issued shall be in accordance with the following:
7.5.4.1
Building Siting and Design
Orientation and Setbacks
1.
New development should strive to complement existing development and reflect similar
front yard setbacks, building height and massing.
2. Increased ground floor setbacks are permitted to accommodate outdoor eating areas,
patios, functional plazas, and green space areas.
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3. Buildings taller than one storey must be set back from the property line at least 4.5m above
the second storey so as not to impede views to or from adjacent properties.
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4. The primary elevation and entrances of a building be oriented toward the street to support
pedestrian connection and safety. Where a building is located on a corner property the
building is to face both streets.
5. Buildings should be oriented to maximize sunlight exposure to absorb and retain heat
during winter months while providing shade from summer sun.
Form and Character
1.
Building shape should be sufficiently varied to create interest and avoid a monotonous
appearance. Long expanses of plain walls are discouraged. Long walls and large boxy forms
can be broken into individual sections using roof and façade articulation, and vertical
features to create the appearance of smaller, individual structures.
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2. Peaked and sloped roofs are encouraged, along with roofs that include dormers to break
up the roof lines.
3. Porches and balconies that provide a more pedestrian scale are encouraged.
4. Building height should be complimentary to adjacent uses on either side.
5. Buildings should be designed to be universally accessible for all users regardless of ability
and should include easy to access ground level entrances.
Colour and Materials
1.
Building materials that reflect the natural area around Chetwynd, such as rock and wood
should be used extensively where possible. Materials which have an appearance similar to
these natural surfaces may be acceptable.
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2. The use of steel, corrugated metal, masonry block and concrete as exterior finishes and
facing material is discouraged. Creative use of metal on roof forms is permitted.
3. The use of carved wood in the exterior building façade is encouraged. This could include
carved doors, carved door and window frames and false support members.
4. Select building materials that are recommended by FireSmart BC to reduce wildfire risk
and spread.
5. The palette of colours used on the main body of building exteriors should be colours that
are found in the natural Chetwynd area - earth tones, subtle and grey blues, greys, browns
and greens, fall yellows, oranges and reds. Monochromatic colour schemes with up to three
shades are encouraged.
6. Vibrant accent colours are encouraged but should be used sparingly and counterbalanced
with neutral colours and natural materials.
7. Large expanses of very bright or reflective colours are discouraged.
Signage
1.
Signs should fit with the overall character and design of the building. Information at a
pedestrian scale is important. Therefore, doorway, hanging, and window painted signs are
encouraged.
2. Signs of carved wood, or sandblasted wood are encouraged, in keeping with Chetwynd's
direction of carving its way to success. (See also District of Chetwynd Sign Bylaw No. 913)
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Corporate and Franchise Design Proposals
1.
National franchises and chain stores can and do have the ability to change their standard
building design to "fit in" with the character of the local community.
2. Corporate and franchise design proposals therefore are encouraged to conform to these
design guidelines.
7.5.4.2
Open Space and Landscape Design
Design and Layout
1.
All work, including landscaping planning, design, installation, and maintenance should be
executed to the Canadian Landscape Standard, industry requirements, national or
provincial standards, codes and regulations recognized by the Canadian Nursery
Landscape Association (CNLA), the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects (CSLA),
national master specification or other applicable trade associations.
2. The following guidelines should be considered when developing a landscape plan for a site
in the Town Centre Development Permit Area:
a) Aesthetics and functionality;
b) Preservation of existing mature trees where possible;
c) Provision of shade and visual interest in parking and outdoor areas; and
d) Plant suitability and hardiness.
3. Site grading of landscape areas should aim to minimize the disruption of natural drainage
patterns, soil erosion and runoff by keeping irrigation and normal rainfall within property
lines and landscape areas.
4. Landscaping designs should maximize the use of vegetation that has low water
requirements. This can be accomplished through the retention of existing vegetation or
the planting of hardy, drought-tolerant native vegetation (e.g.; native grasses, xeriscape
species)
5. Planting designs should follow the FireSmart Priority Zone setback recommendations
outlined by FireSmart BC. This includes ensuring that deciduous trees are planted at a
minimum distance of 1.5m from any principal building and that coniferous trees are
planted a minimum of 10m from any principal building. Coniferous trees should be spaced
at a minimum of 3m between tree crowns and pruned to remove all branches to a height
of 2m from the ground.
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6. Landscaping should be provided in order to soften the visual impacts of building edges, as
well as the interfaces between buildings and parking areas. A mix of deciduous and
coniferous vegetation is preferred, allowing landscaping to show in all seasons. Flower
displays are welcome in season.
7. Landscaping should be designed to shield buildings from strong winds and to retain solar
access for south facing walls and windows. Consider planting deciduous trees on the south
and east sides of buildings and coniferous trees on the north and west sides of buildings to
protect the building from direct sunlight during afternoon hours in summer and to permit
sunlight penetration in the winter.
8. Decorative elements such as public art, decorative landscaping, or site furnishings such as
benches or tables, are encouraged at the street level to help create welcoming and
comfortable public spaces.
9. Outdoor amenity spaces are to incorporate universal access design guidelines to ensure
access for people of all ages and abilities.
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10. Landscaping is to be sufficiently spaced and set back from pedestrian areas so as to
preserve sightlines and retain visibility from both private and public property.
Lighting
1.
All exterior lighting should be energy-efficient and designed and built to a pedestrian scale.
2. Exterior lighting should be provided for safety reasons and site security and to accentuate
building facades and features.
3. Lighting should be directed toward the land use on the parcel, and away from any
adjacent residential use, Light pollution and over-spill illumination should be minimized.
4. All screened or semi-private spaces, including parking lots and loading bays, should be well
light during the nighttime and winter months.
5. Lighting should not be positioned in a way that will impact visibility of drivers at night.
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Screening and Buffering
1.
Where design proposals for new construction show development with setbacks for
parking, the plan should include provision for landscaping that would screen or separate
parking areas from the highway corridor.
2. Outdoor storage areas should be screened with fencing and/or vegetation. Garbage areas
should be fully enclosed and bear/wildlife proof. Outdoor storage areas and garbage areas
should not be adjacent to residential uses.
3. Berms and landscaping may be used on the northwest side of walkways to protect site
users from snow and wind and to reduce snow drifting at building entrances.
7.5.4.3
Parking, Loading and Circulation
Pedestrian and Bicycle Facilities and Circulation
1.
Ensure that pedestrian circulation routes and crossings are well-identified to both
pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
2. Sites are to be designed to be universally accessible for all site users regardless of ability,
with easy to navigate circulation routes.
3. Safe and secure bicycle parking associated with the development is encouraged and may
be shared by adjoining businesses.
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Vehicle Parking, Loading, and Circulation
1.
Locate parking areas to the rear of buildings and ensure that parking areas are well-
identified from the road.
2. Locate snow storage areas in spaces that receive long periods of sunlight to quickly melt
snow, minimize impacts on vehicular and pedestrian traffic, and, where possible, be out of
sight from the road.
3. Large parking areas should be broken up with landscape islands and pedestrian walkways.
Landscape islands should contain drought- and salt-tolerant species.
4. Shared parking between adjacent developments is encouraged.
5. Because there is some residential use within the Town Center Development Permit Area,
pedestrian and vehicular accesses and parking areas should be located away from
abutting residential areas. Entrances and exits that permit safe traffic and pedestrian
movement are encouraged.
6. Loading and delivery areas should be located to the rear of buildings and away from
residential areas.
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7.6 Industrial
7.6.1
Area
This development permit area applies to all lands designated as Industrial in Schedule H, with
the exception of any satellite parcels of the District of Chetwynd.
7.6.2
Justification
1.
Pursuant to subsections 488.1(a)(f) of the Local Government Act, the purpose of this
development permit area is to establish objectives for the following:
a) Protection of the natural environment, its ecosystems and biological diversity; and
b) Establishment of objectives for the form and character of commercial, industrial, or
multi-family residential development.
7.6.3
Development Permit Area Objectives
1.
The objectives of to the Industrial Development Permit Area are as follows:
a) Ensure that new development in the industrial area is designed for the service being
provided while also enhancing the Chetwynd area in a practical manner;
b) Ensure that industrial development does not infringe on neighbouring uses; and
c) Ensure that industrial development encompasses a high visual aesthetic.
7.6.4
Design Guidelines
Development Permits which are issued shall be in accordance with the following:
7.6.4.1
Building Siting and Design
Orientation and Setbacks
1.
Siting of the buildings on the properties is not an issue in relation to a Development Permit.
Industries often need specific building locations, depending on their proposed uses.
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Form and Character
1.
Building shape should be consistent with the uses intended. As this area is destined for
industrial use, there are not the concerns about expanses of plain walls. As with the Town
Center and Highway Commercial areas, long walls can be broken into more interesting
and attractive shapes using roof and façade alteration, although this is not a requirement.
Colour and Materials
1.
Buildings shall be finished and not left unpainted or unfinished. The Development Permit
application shall specify final finish materials and colours.
2. Building materials that reflect the natural area around Chetwynd, such as rock and wood,
should be used at some area of the building, preferably the office or entrance area.
Materials which have an appearance similar to these natural surfaces may be acceptable.
3. Select building materials that are recommended by FireSmart BC to reduce wildfire risk
and spread.
4. Colour is not an issue in the Industrial area. Developers are encouraged to conform to the
colour palette provided in these Guidelines, but the choice of colour is often associated
with the industry and will not be a matter of interest in issuance of a development permit.
Signage
1.
All signage should be designed to be easily read by vehicle traffic. Spot lighting is preferred
over back lighting or neon lighting.
2. Where necessary, signage should indicate directions to different parts of the site and
outline the location of offices and which areas are accessible to the public.
3. Signs of carved wood, or sandblasted wood are encouraged, in keeping with Chetwynd's
direction of carving its way to success (also see the District of Chetwynd Sign Bylaw).
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7.6.4.2
Open Space and Landscape Design
Design and Layout
1.
All work, including landscaping planning, design, installation, and maintenance should be
executed to the Canadian Landscape Standard, industry requirements, national or
provincial standards, codes and regulations recognized by the Canadian Nursery
Landscape Association (CNLA), the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects (CSLA),
national master specification or other applicable trade associations.
2. The following guidelines should be considered when developing a landscape plan for a site
in the Industrial Development Permit Area:
a) Aesthetics and functionality;
b) Preservation of existing mature trees where possible; and
c) Plant suitability and hardiness.
3. Landscaping should be used along property lines and around building entrances to soften
the visual impacts of industrial development and screen unwanted views. A mix of
deciduous and coniferous vegetation is preferred, allowing landscaping to show in all
seasons. In particular, the office area of an industrial building can be used to showcase
landscaping without detracting from the practical use of the rest of the development.
4. A 30-metre vegetated buffer should be used to separate industrial areas from any adjacent
residential properties and greenspaces. This buffer should consist of a mix of deciduous
and coniferous trees and shrubs, sufficiently spaced to screen views and block unwanted
noise.
5. Planting designs should follow the FireSmart Priority Zone setback recommendations
outlined by FireSmart BC. This includes ensuring that deciduous trees are planted at a
minimum distance of 1.5m from any principal building and that coniferous trees are
planted a minimum of 10m from any principal building. Coniferous trees should be spaced
at a minimum of 3m between tree crowns and pruned to remove all branches to a height
of 2m from the ground.
6. Site grading of landscape areas should aim to minimize the disruption of natural drainage
patterns, soil erosion and runoff by keeping irrigation and normal rainfall within property
lines and landscape areas.
7. The Industrial area is served by open ditch storm drainage. Site grading or reworking of
properties within the Industrial area shall be preceded by approval of a drainage plan so
other properties will not be affected by the development.
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8. Landscaping designs should maximize the use of vegetation that has low water
requirements. This can be accomplished through the retention of existing vegetation or
the planting of hardy, drought-tolerant native vegetation (e.g.; native grasses, xeriscape
species)
Lighting
1.
All exterior lighting should be energy efficient.
2. Exterior lighting should be provided for safety reasons and site security.
3. Exterior lighting should be directed toward the land use on the parcel. Light pollution and
over-spill illumination should be minimized.
Screening and Buffering
1.
Where industry requires fencing for security or to delineate the site, fencing shall be neat
and tidy, and shall be maintained in a manner satisfactory to the District. Where possible,
fencing shall be associated with vegetation, and landscaping to soften the fence lines.
2. Berms may be used as property delineation, and landscaping of the berms is encouraged.
3. Location of fencing, screening, and berms shall take into account the need for snow
removal in the winter.
4. Where the development is associated with what might be considered unsightly storage of
materials, like auto wrecking or scrap and salvage, the site shall be screened from the road
by a solid fence, and landscaping.
7.6.4.3
Parking, Loading and Circulation
Vehicle Parking, Loading, and Circulation
1.
Parking for all vehicles associated with the industry shall be on-site. Parking of vehicles
and equipment on roadways is not supported.
2. Loading and delivery areas shall be on-site and vehicles unloading material shall not
encroach on public road right of way. Design of development on a property will take into
account the need for vehicles to turn around and reverse on site, rather than on public road
right of ways.
3. New development will require paved access from the public road to the property line.
Access width and base design shall be appropriate for the intended vehicle use.
4. Required parking and loading spaces should be paved, and proper and regular dust control
should be applied on all unpaved areas.
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7.7 Medium Density Residential
7.7.1
Area
This development permit area applies to all lands designated as Medium Density Residential
in Schedule H.
7.7.2
Justification
1.
Pursuant to subsections 488.1(e)(f) of the Local Government Act, the purpose of this
development permit area is to establish objectives for the following:
a) Establishment of objectives for the form and character of intensive residential
development; and
b) Establishment of objectives for the form and character of commercial, industrial, or
multi-family residential development.
7.7.3
Development Permit Area Objectives
1.
The objectives of the Medium Density Residential Development Permit Area are as follows:
a) Ensure that multi-unit housing developments are attractive and compatible with the
surrounding area; and
b) Emphasize visual aspects of development to enhance the attractiveness of the area.
7.7.4
Design Guidelines
Development Permits that are issued shall be in accordance with the following:
7.7.4.1
Building Siting and Design
Orientation and Setbacks
1.
New development should strive to complement existing development and reflect similar
front yard setbacks, building height and massing.
2. The primary elevation and entrances of a building be oriented toward the street to support
pedestrian connection and safety. Where a building is located on a corner property the
building is to face both streets.
3. Buildings should be oriented to maximize sunlight exposure to absorb and retain heat
during winter months while providing shade from summer sun.
4. Building setbacks should be minimized in order to create a strong relationship to the
public realm.
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Form and Character
1.
Building shapes should be sufficiently varied to create interest and avoid a monotonous
appearance. Long expanses of plain walls are discouraged. The use of balconies, terraces,
roof, and facade articulation to break up the image is encouraged.
2. Peaked and sloped roofs are encouraged where reasonable.
3. Porches, decks, balconies are often standard design for multi-family units, and are
encouraged.
4. Building heights should be complimentary to adjacent uses on either side.
5. Buildings should be designed to be universally accessible for all users regardless of ability
and should include easy to access ground level entrances.
Colour and Materials
1.
The palette of colours provided in these guidelines is recommended for multi-family
development. These colours are typical of those found in the natural Chetwynd area - earth
tones, subtle grays and blues, browns, and greens, fall yellows, oranges, and reds.
Monochromatic colour schemes with up to three shades are encouraged.
2. Large expanses of very bright or reflective colours are discouraged.
3. Building materials that reflect the natural area around Chetwynd, such as rock and wood
should be used extensively where possible. Materials which have an appearance similar to
these natural surfaces may be acceptable.
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4. The use of carved wood in the exterior of the building is encouraged. This could include
carved doors, carved door and window frames, and false support members.
5. Select building materials that are recommended by FireSmart BC to reduce wildfire risk
and spread.
Signage
1.
Signs should fit with the overall character and design of the building. Signs of carved wood
or sandblasted wood are encouraged, in keeping with Chetwynd's vision of carving its way
to success.
7.7.4.2
Open Space and Landscape Design
Design and Layout
1.
Landscaping shall extend from the building front line to the front property line and on to
District property with the District's approval. Landscaping shall include lawn, shrubs, trees
and flower beds or a combination of all.
2. Landscaping is to be sufficiently spaced and set back from pedestrian areas so as to
preserve sightlines and retain visibility from both private and public property.
3. All work, including landscaping planning, design, installation, and maintenance should be
executed to the Canadian Landscape Standard, industry requirements, national or
provincial standards, codes and regulations recognized by the Canadian Nursery
Landscape Association (CNLA), the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects (CSLA),
national master specification or other applicable trade associations.
4. The following guidelines should be considered when developing a landscape plan for a site
in the Medium Density Residential Development Permit Area:
a) Aesthetics and functionality;
b) Preservation of existing mature trees where possible;
c) Provision of shade and visual interest in parking and outdoor areas; and
d) Plant suitability and hardiness.
5. Site grading of landscape areas should aim to minimize the disruption of natural drainage
patterns, soil erosion and runoff by keeping irrigation and normal rainfall within property
lines and landscape areas.
6. Landscaping designs should maximize the use of vegetation that is low maintenance and
has low water requirements. This can be accomplished through the retention of existing
vegetation or the planting of hardy, drought-tolerant native vegetation (e.g.; native grasses,
xeriscape species)
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7. Landscaping should be provided in order to soften the visual impacts of building edges, as
well as the interfaces between buildings and parking areas. A mix of deciduous and
coniferous vegetation is preferred, allowing landscaping to show in all seasons. Flower
displays are welcome in season.
8. Planting designs should follow the FireSmart Priority Zone setback recommendations
outlined by FireSmart BC. This includes ensuring that deciduous trees are planted at a
minimum distance of 1.5m from any principal building and that coniferous trees are
planted a minimum of 10m from any principal building. Coniferous trees should be spaced
at a minimum of 3m between tree crowns and pruned to remove all branches to a height
of 2m from the ground.
9. Landscaping should be designed to shield buildings from strong winds and to retain solar
access for south facing walls and windows. Consider planting deciduous trees on the south
and east sides of buildings and coniferous trees on the north and west sides of buildings to
protect the building from direct sunlight during afternoon hours in summer and to permit
sunlight penetration in the winter.
10. Outdoor amenity spaces are to incorporate universal access design guidelines to ensure
access for people of all ages and abilities.
Lighting
1.
All exterior lighting should be energy-efficient and designed and built to a pedestrian scale.
2. Exterior lighting should illuminate pedestrian areas and should be located so lighting does
not cast deep shadows in areas where individuals could hide.
Screening and Buffering
1.
Outdoor storage areas should be screened with fencing and/or vegetation. Garbage areas
should be fully enclosed and bear/wildlife proof.
7.7.4.3
Parking, Loading and Circulation
Pedestrian and Bicycle Facilities and Circulation
1.
Ensure that pedestrian circulation routes and crossings are well-identified to both
pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
2. Sites are to be designed to be universally accessible for all site users regardless of ability
with easy to navigate circulation routes.
3. Safe and secure bicycle parking associated with the multi-family development is
encouraged.
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Vehicle Parking, Loading, and Circulation
1.
Parking shall be situated on site and shall be paved. Underground parking is permitted
subject to appropriate building design. Visitor spots and unloading spots shall be included
in the parking requirement. Parking for RV's and large vehicles must be provided on site
or provided elsewhere in conjunction with District policies.
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8.0
Implementation
"I like living in Chetwynd and being able to enjoy the
outdoors, season related activities."
This Official Community Plan applies to all lands within the Greater Chetwynd area, as shown
on Schedule B. In order to use the Official Community Plan as a guiding force and framework
for decision making and implementing the policies contained within this Official Community
Plan, an implementation program containing a variety of methods helps to facilitate the
orderly development and control of land in the best interests of the community. The process
of implementation includes many different elements, which reflect legislative authority,
municipal procedures, and council policies.
This section identifies some of the key ways in which this Official Community Plan will be
implemented. It is not intended that these will all be obligatory or all-inclusive.
Effective implementation of these policies is the key to transforming this document into reality
and keeping the Official Community Plan alive and relevant. Given the broad nature of the
policies contained herein, implementation will require the involvement of many individuals
and organizations in a variety of different ways.
There are a number of strategies that can be used to implement this Official Community Plan
including:
-
Zoning Bylaw
-
Other municipal tools
-
Municipal leadership
-
Public awareness and involvement.
-
Fiscal program
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8.1 Zoning Bylaw
The Zoning Bylaw is one of the principal tools used to implement an Official Community Plan.
Amendments to the Zoning Bylaw may be required to ensure it is consistent with the direction
set forth in the Official Community Plan with respect to land uses, densities and building
heights. The District of Chetwynd is concurrently updating its Zoning Bylaw to ensure that it
is compatible with this Official Community Plan.
The District will amend the Zoning Map only when satisfactory development plans are
submitted or where necessary to fulfill objectives of the Official Community Plan. Pre-zoning
is not preferred.
8.2 Other Municipal Tools
All District of Chetwynd plans, policies and bylaws that are prepared after the adoption of this
Official Community Plan must ensure that they are consistent with the direction set forth in
the Official Community Plan.
8.3 Municipal Leadership
The District can demonstrate leadership through its actions, which is to lead through example.
The District may benefit from assessing their current practices to identify any that may be
working against the community achieving its vision. Reports to Council should include a
section describing their relevance to the Official Community Plan. Furthermore, the District
could highlight in its Annual Reports the various Official Community Plan initiatives that have
been undertaken each year, as this will increase the recognition of this important policy
document within the community and communicate the District's actions towards
implementing it.
8.4 Public Awareness and Involvement
Building public awareness and understanding of the goals of the Official Community Plan and
its policies are integral to achieving support for this Official Community Plan and its effective
implementation. Public involvement is essential to maximize community benefits and
minimize negative impacts. In this regard, the District will continue to work towards improving
its communications and public engagement practices in the implementation of this Official
Community Plan.
Individual actions by residents, business operators, employees, property owners, developers
etc. will have a profound effect on helping the District achieve the direction set out in its Official
Community Plan. This occurs through all aspects of community life including but not limited
to individual actions, participation at public events, and developments that meet public
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objectives. The coordinated results of all of these groups will enable the District to implement
its Official Community Plan.
8.5 Fiscal Program
Implementation of many of the policies contained in this Official Community Plan depends on
the expenditure of District funds. The Five-year Financial Plan, Annual Report and Reserve
Funds, in particular, must reflect the policies of the Official Community Plan, particularly with
respect regard to physical infrastructure.
Lone
Prairie Road
Cowie
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Zonnebeke
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Jackfish
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Highway
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West
Moberly
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Nikirk Road
Galioo
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Moberly
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Road
Martin
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Highway
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Highway 29
Guillet
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Highway
29
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Ranson
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Melychuck
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Widmark Creek
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t
Cr
ee
k
Carl
Cree
k
Wa
bi
Cr
ee
k
Fred Nelson Creek
Highhat R
iver
Fernan
do Cre
ek
Wil
dm
are
Cre
ek
Wilkie Cre
ek
Wi
nd
re
m
Cr
ee
k
¯
District of Chetwynd
Official Community Plan
Bylaw No. 1140, 2022
SCHEDULE B
Legend
Municipal Boundary
Waterbody
Railway
Provincial Highways
DISCLAIMER: This map is for information purposes only.
For confirmation of the up-to-date land use designation on any specific
property, please contact the District of Chetwynd.
Greater Chetwynd
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
1
km
BYLAW
NO.
AMENDMENTS
DATE
See Schedule C
See Schedule D
Pine River
Widmark Creek
Centurion Creek
Centu
rion C
reek
Fernando Creek
Wilki
e Cre
ek
Windrem Creek
Wa
bi
Cre
ek
Highway 97 South
47th Avenue Northeast
South
Access
Road
Jackfish Lake
Road
Westall
Subdivision
Fifle
Range
Road
Northwest
45A
Street
Southeast
Hillview
Subdivision
Campbell Way
West
Fraser
Road
Westgate
Road
Highway 29
50th Street Southwest
46th
Street Northeast
43rd Street Northeast
North Access
Road
Highway 29 South
Hayward
Road
West
Airport
Road Southeast
¯
SCHEDULE C
Legend
Municipal Boundary
Waterbody
Railway
Provincial Highways
Land Use Designations
Agriculture
Low Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Neighborhood Commercial
Town Centre Commercial
Highway Commercial
Industrial
Institutional
Parks, Trails and Greenspaces
DISCLAIMER: This map is for information purposes only.
For confirmation of the up-to-date land use designation on any specific
property, please contact the District of Chetwynd.
0
1
2
0.5
km
BYLAW
NO.
AMENDMENTS
DATE
See Schedule D
District of Chetwynd
Official Community Plan
Bylaw No. 1140, 2022
Land Use
47th Avenue
Northwest
46th Avenue Northwest
48A
Street
Northwest
51st Street Northwest
47th Avenue Northeast
53rd Street Southwest
South
Access
Road
Hillside Avenue
Northwest
53rd
Street
Northwest
52nd
Avenue Southwest
North
Access
Road
44th Avenue Northeast
49th Avenue
Northeast
44th
Wabi Crescent
Southeast
45th Avenue
Northeast
Hospital
Road
Northwest
45th Street
No
51st
Avenue
Southwest
Westgate Road Northwest
Fifle
Range
Road
Northwest
50th
Street Northeast
50th Street Southwest
Nicholson Road
46th Street Northeast
47th
Street Northeast
45th
Avenue Northwest
¯
SCHEDULE D
Legend
Municipal Boundary
Waterbody
Railway
Provincial Highways
Land Use Designations
Low Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Neighborhood Commercial
Town Centre Commercial
Highway Commercial
Industrial
Institutional
Parks, Trails and Greenspaces
DISCLAIMER: This map is for information purposes only.
For confirmation of the up-to-date land use designation on any specific
property, please contact the District of Chetwynd.
0
0.65
0.325
km
BYLAW
NO.
AMENDMENTS
DATE
District of Chetwynd
Official Community Plan
Bylaw No. 1140, 2022
Land Use
Town Centre
Widmark Creek
Centuri
on Cree
k
Pine
River
Centurion Creek
Fernando Creek
Wilkie Creek
Windrem Creek
Wa
bi
Cr
ee
k
Highway 97 South
47th Avenue Northeast
South
Access
Road
Jackfish Lake
Road
Westall
Subdivision
Fifle
Range
Road
Northwest
Hillview
Subdivision
Campbell Way
West
Fraser
Road
Westgate
Road
Highway 29
50th Street Southwest
46th
Street Northeast
43rd Street Northeast
North Access
Road
Highway 29 South
Hayward
Road
West
Airport
Road Southeast
¯
SCHEDULE E
Legend
Municipal Boundary
Waterbody
Railway
Provincial Highways
Natural Assets
Area of Steep Slopes (>25%)
Agricultural Land Reserve
Centurion Creek
Fernando Creek
Widmark Creek
Wilkie Creek
Windrem Creek
DISCLAIMER: This map is for information purposes only.
For confirmation of the up-to-date land use designation on any specific
property, please contact the District of Chetwynd.
Natural Assets Maps
0
1
2
0.5
km
BYLAW
NO.
AMENDMENTS
DATE
District of Chetwynd
Official Community Plan
Bylaw No. 1140, 2022
Pine
River
W
ab
i
Cr
ee
k
Centuri
on Cree
k
Fernando Creek
Windrem Creek
Widmark Creek
Centurion Creek
Wilkie Creek
Highway 97 South
47th Avenue Northeast
South
Access
Road
Jackfish Lake
Road
Westall
Subdivision
Fifle
Range
Road
Northwest
45A
Street
Southeast
Hillview
Subdivision
Campbell Way
West
Fraser
Road
Westgate
Road
Highway 29
50th Street Southwest
46th
Street Northeast
43rd Street Northeast
North Access
Road
Highway 29 South
Hayward
Road
West
Airport
Road Southeast
¯
SCHEDULE F
Legend
Municipal Boundary
Waterbody
Railway
Existing Roads
Provincial Highways
Major Streets
Existing Trails
Unpaved Trails
Paved Walkways
Future Trails
Paved Walkways
Unpaved Trails
DISCLAIMER: This map is for information purposes only.
For confirmation of the up-to-date land use designation on any specific
property, please contact the District of Chetwynd.
Transportation Network
0
1
2
0.5
km
BYLAW
NO.
AMENDMENTS
DATE
District of Chetwynd
Official Community Plan
Bylaw No. 1140, 2022
!
!
!
!
!!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!!
Highway 97 South
47th Avenue Northeast
South
Access
Road
Jackfish Lake
Road
Westall
Subdivision
Fifle
Range
Road
Northwest
45A
Street
Southeast
Hillview
Subdivision
Campbell Way
West
Fraser
Road
Westgate
Road
Highway 29
46th
Street Northeast
43rd Street Northeast
North Access Road
Highway 29 South
Hayward
Road
West
Airport
Road Southeast
Widmark Creek
Centurion Creek
Centurion Creek
Fernando Creek
Wilki
e Cre
ek
Windrem Creek
Wa
bi
Cre
ek
Well #3
Water Reservoir #2
Water Reservoir #1
Low Lift Pump Station
Water Treatment Plant
High Lift Pump Station
Pine River
PRV
PRV
NIFAC Lift
Station
PVEP Lift
Station
Westgate
Road Lift
Station
Main
Sewer Lift
Station
Trucked Waste
Receiving Facility
Bulk Water
Fill Station
¯
SCHEDULE G
Legend
Municipal Boundary
Waterbody
Railway
Provincial Highways
Existing Water Infrastructure
!
Water System Infrastructure
Raw Water Ponds
Existing Sanitary Sewer Infrastructure
Sanitary Lagoons
DISCLAIMER: This map is for information purposes only.
For confirmation of the up-to-date land use designation on any specific
property, please contact the District of Chetwynd.
Water & Sanitary
Sewer Infrastructure
0
1
2
0.5
km
BYLAW
NO.
AMENDMENTS
DATE
District of Chetwynd
Official Community Plan
Bylaw No. 1140, 2022
Widmark Creek
Centurion Creek
Centurion Creek
Fernando Creek
Wilki
e Cre
ek
Windrem Creek
Wa
bi
Cre
ek
Highway 97 South
47th Avenue Northeast
South
Access
Road
Jackfish Lake
Road
Westall
Subdivision
Fifle
Range
Road
Northwest
45A
Street
Southeast
Hillview
Subdivision
Campbell Way
West
Fraser
Road
Westgate
Road
Highway 29
50th Street Southwest
46th
Street Northeast
43rd Street Northeast
North Access
Road
Highway 29 South
Hayward
Road
West
Airport
Road Southeast
Pine River
¯
SCHEDULE H
Legend
Municipal Boundary
Railway
Provincial Highways
Development Permit Areas
Medium Density Residential
Town Centre Commercial
Highway Commercial
Industrial
DISCLAIMER: This map is for information purposes only.
For confirmation of the up-to-date land use designation on any specific
property, please contact the District of Chetwynd.
Development Permit Areas
0
1
2
0.5
km
BYLAW
NO.
AMENDMENTS
DATE
District of Chetwynd
Official Community Plan
Bylaw No. 1140, 2022