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1
TOWN OF LAKE COWICHAN
ZONING BYLAW NO. 1055-2021
Consolidated as of February 24th, 2026
A Bylaw to Establish Zones
And to Regulate the Use of Land, Buildings and Structures within the Zones
WHEREAS the Local Government Act of Province of British Columbia authorizes a local government
to enact bylaws, which would designate different zones pertaining to land use and development of
the Town of Lake Cowichan;
AND WHEREAS the Council wishes to adopt regulations that would guide the growth of the
municipality in a systematic and orderly way for the benefit of the community by ensuring that the
various uses of land and improvements are developed for the public good;
AND WHEREAS the passage of this bylaw has met all the requirements pursuant to the Local
Government Act;
NOW THEREFORE the Council of the Town of Lake Cowichan in open meeting assembled, enacts
the following:
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART I.
GENERAL PROVISIONS ............................................................................................. 3
TITLE ......................................................................................................................... 3
PURPOSE .................................................................................................................... 3
AUTHORITY ................................................................................................................ 3
APPLICATION .............................................................................................................. 3
CONFORMITY .............................................................................................................. 3
SEVERABILITY ............................................................................................................ 3
INCORPORATION ........................................................................................................ 3
PART II.
ADMINISTRATION ................................................................................................. 4
INSPECTION ............................................................................................................... 4
VIOLATIONS ............................................................................................................... 4
OFFENCE .................................................................................................................... 4
PENALTY ..................................................................................................................... 4
TEMPORARY USES ....................................................................................................... 4
PART III.
INTERPRETATION ................................................................................................. 5
NUMBERING ............................................................................................................... 5
DEFINITONS ............................................................................................................... 5
PART IV.
LAND USE CATEGORIES AND REGULATIONS ........................................................ 13
ZONING CATEGORIES ............................................................................................... 13
LOCATION AND EXTENT OF LAND USES ..................................................................... 14
GENERAL REGULATIONS, REQUIREMENTS AND PROVISIONS ...................................... 14
COMMUNITY CARE FACILITY ..................................................................................... 19
GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR BACKYARD HENS ............................................................ 19
PART V.
REGULATIONS FOR EACH ZONE .............................................................................. 21
LOW AND MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL ZONE DISTRICTS ..................................... 21
MULTI-UNIT RESIDENTIAL ZONE DISTRICT--R-7 ....................................................... 30
COMMERCIAL ZONES ................................................................................................ 34
INDUSTRIAL ZONES .................................................................................................. 38
P-1 PUBLIC USE ZONE ............................................................................................... 40
W-1 WATER RECREATION ZONE ................................................................................ 41
CD-1 - COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENT ZONE .......................................................... 43
CD-2 TINY HOUSE RESIDENTIAL (THR) COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENT ZONE .......... 44
PART VI.
CONDITIONS FOR SHORT TERM VACATION RENTALS........................................... 46
PART VII.
TRANSITION ....................................................................................................... 47
SCHEDULE 'A' ZONING MAP ................................................................................................... 48
SCHEDULE 'B' PARKING SPACES ............................................................................................. 49
SCHEDULE 'C' DENSITY BONUS CALCULATIONS AND AMENITY CONTRIBUTIONS ..................... 62
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
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PART I. GENERAL PROVISIONS
TITLE
This bylaw may be cited for all purposes as the Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw Number 1055-
2021.
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Zoning Bylaw is to regulate the use of land and structures, to guide sustainable
and resilient development and to preserve the amenities of Lake Cowichan for the benefit of the
community.
AUTHORITY
All sections, except explicitly indicated, are enacted pursuant to the Local Government Act
APPLICATION
This bylaw applies to all the land, surface of water, buildings, structure, air space and natural
vegetation within the municipal boundaries of the Town of Lake Cowichan.
CONFORMITY
Land, air space or the surface of water shall not be altered, used, or occupied and
buildings and structures shall not be altered, constructed, located, or used except as
specifically permitted in this bylaw or in the Local Government Act.
Subject to the preceding section, unless a particular use is permitted, any other use is
expressly prohibited.
SEVERABILITY
If any schedule, section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase contained within 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.
INCORPORATION
Schedules A, B, and C attached hereto are made part of this bylaw.
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
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PART II. ADMINISTRATION
INSPECTION
The Corporate Officer and the Building Inspector are authorized to act between 0830 hours and
1630 hours on any day to enter any premises or property that is subject to regulations under this
bylaw to ascertain whether the regulations or directions under this bylaw are being observed.
VIOLATIONS
Every person who:
violates any of the provisions of this bylaw;
causes or permits any act or thing to be done in contravention or violation of any of the
provisions of this bylaw;
neglects or omits to do anything required under this bylaw;
carries out, causes, or permits to be carried out any development in a manner prohibited
by or contrary to any of the provisions of this bylaw;
fails to comply with an order, direction or notice given under this bylaw; or
prevents or obstructs or attempts to prevent or obstruct the authorized entry of the
Corporate Officer or Building Inspector on property under Part II, ADMINISTRATION
shall be deemed to be guilty upon summary conviction of an offence under this bylaw.
OFFENCE
Every day's continuance of an offence under Section 2.2 constitutes a new and distinct offence.
PENALTY
Every person who commits an offence under any part or schedule of this bylaw is liable on summary
conviction to a fine as provided for by the Offence Act.
TEMPORARY USES
The Town of Lake Cowichan Council may designate areas within the Town for the issuance of
temporary use permits and may issue such permits in all commercial, industrial and water recreation
zones. Applications for temporary use permits must follow the process outlined in the Local
Government Act. Cannabis retail sales shall also be considered in accordance with the Cannabis
Retail Sales Policy of Council.
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
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PART III. INTERPRETATION
NUMBERING
In the numbering system used in this Bylaw, the first number indicates parts of the Bylaw, the
second number indicates sections, the third indicates subsections, the bracketed letter indicates
articles, and the bracketed lower-case Roman numeral indicates clauses, as follows:
8
Part
8.1
Section
8.1.2
Subsection
8.1.2 a.
Article
8.1.2 a. i.
Clause
8.1.2 a. i. (a) Subclause
8.1.2 a. i. (a) (i) Sub-subclause
DEFINITONS
In this bylaw, unless the context otherwise requires:
ACCESSORY BUILDING or structure means a building or structure located on the same lot
as the principal building and used for a purpose ancillary or subordinate to the principal use;
ACCESSORY USE means those uses in the list of accessory uses in the zoning category
descriptions of this Bylaw that are subordinate to and must be in conjunction with a permitted
principal use;
ACCESSORY DWELLING - COACH HOUSE means a self-contained dwelling unit, forming
the second story of a detached accessory building;
ACCESSORY DWELLING - GARDEN SUITE means a single unit, independent suite in a free-
standing, single-story accessory building located in the rear yard of a principal single detached
dwelling;
ACCESSORY DWELLING - SECONDARY SUITE means a self-contained living quarters,
including cooking equipment and a bathroom, located within the structure of a single-unit
dwelling, and with its own separate entrance;
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT means a dwelling unit which is subordinate to and associated
with the principal use;
ALTERATION means a structural change to a building and includes:
an addition to gross floor area or height;
the removal of a portion of the building;
construction of, cutting into, or removal of any wall, partition, column, beam, joist,
floor, or chimney; and
any change to or closing of any required means of access;
APARTMENT BUILDING means a building other than a townhouse containing three or more
dwellings which has its principal access from an entrance common to the dwelling;
BED AND BREAKFAST means an owner-occupied single detached dwelling containing a
maximum of two (2) rooms without cooking facilities intended primarily for the temporary
overnight accommodation for the travelling public, with breakfast meals prepared and served
to guests by means of a common kitchen and dining facilities used by the owner-occupier;
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
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BUILDING means any structure that is greater than ten (10) square metres used or intended
for supporting or sheltering any use or occupancy;
BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICES means the carrying on of a personal service
the condition of which requires a Licence or other statutory authorization and includes, but is
not limited to accountants, architects, barristers and lawyers, dentists, dental technicians,
engineers, financial planners, foresters, naturopathic physicians, nurses, physicians and
surgeons, planners, psychiatrists, podiatrists, psychologists, physiotherapists, surveyors, and
veterinarians;
CANNABIS means cannabis as defined in the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act or any
subsequent legislation or regulations which may be enacted in substitution and includes any
products containing cannabis derivatives or marijuana intended for human consumption;
CANNABIS RETAIL STORE means the use of buildings for the sale of cannabis products,
which includes marijuana products, for either recreational or medical purposes;
CAMPGROUND means a parcel providing for the temporary accommodation of travellers using
tents or recreational vehicles, but specifically excludes a mobile home park or hotel;
CHILD CARE FACILITY has the same meaning as defined by the Child Care Act as may be
amended from time to time;
CIVIC USE means the use of land, buildings, or structures for the following public functions
which are under the auspices of a public body: schools, libraries, fire halls, parks and recreation
facilities owned by a public body, storage buildings, storage container, public washrooms,
garages, sewage pumping stations, water pumping stations, and reservoirs owned by the Town
or by the Cowichan Valley Regional District, but does not include government office buildings;
CLASS 1 BICYCLE PARKING means a secure, weather protected bicycle parking facility used
to accommodate long-term parking such as for residents or employees, usually within a room
or covered fenced area;
CLASS 2 BICYCLE PARKING means a short-term visitor bicycle parking facility that may offer
some security, and may be partially protected from the weather such as a bike rack at building's
entrance;
COLUMBARIUM means a structure designed for the purpose of storing the ashes of human
remains that have been cremated and which contains niches for cinerary remains;
COMMERCE means the selling, servicing, and repair of goods, the provision of services and
commercial office functions;
COMMERCIAL, LOW INTENSITY means a category of land uses with a low ratio of users to
land use area such as automobile sales, garden nursery, marina equipment sales, boat, and
marine storage, building supplies, lumber yard, art studio and gallery, kennel, and similar uses;
COMMUNITY CARE FACILITY means the same as defined in the Community Care and
Assisted Living Act and includes a facility serving any age group, including a senior's assisted
living facility;
DERELICT VEHICLE means any vehicle or part thereof propelled otherwise than by muscle
power which is not capable of operating under its own power, and does not have attached
number plates for the current year pursuant to the regulations of the Motor Vehicle Act of the
Province of British Columbia but shall not include a vehicle deemed to be a collector item
outlined in the list of cars recognized by the Vintage Car Club of Canada;
DESIGNATED FLOOD means a flood, which may occur in any given year, of such magnitude
as to equal a flood having a 200-year recurrence interval based on a frequency analysis of
unregulated historic flood records;
DESIGNATED FLOOD LEVEL means the observed or calculated elevation for the designated
flood;
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
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DWELLING means a self-contained set of habitable rooms located in a principal building
containing a set of cooking facilities and which may contain sleeping, sanitary and recreation
facilities;
E-CIGARETTE means the following:
(a)
a product or device, whether or not it resembles a cigarette, containing an
electronic or battery-powered heating element capable of vapourizing an e-
substance for inhalation or release into the air;
(b)
a prescribed product or device similar in nature or use to a product or device
described in paragraph (a);
FAMILY means two or more persons related by blood, marriage, adoption, or foster
parenthood sharing one dwelling;
FENCE includes arbour, archway, gate, screen, trellis, and wall;
FILL SLOPE means the angle of material deposited for landfill;
FLOOD CONSTRUCTION LEVEL means the designated flood level plus the allowance for
freeboard (normally 0.6 metres) and is used to establish the elevation of the underside of a
wooden floor system or top of concrete slab for habitable buildings, or the ground surface
elevation or top of concrete or asphalt pad upon which a mobile home or unit rests;
FLOOR AREA RATIO means the figure obtained when the gross floor area of all buildings on
a lot is divided by the area of the lot;
FREEBOARD means a vertical distance added to the designated flood level to allow for a factor
of safety;
GRADE means the lowest of the average levels of ground adjoining each face of a structure;
GROSS FLOOR AREA (GFA) means the total floor area, exclusive of any portion of the
building or structure below finished grade measured between the exterior faces of the exterior
walls which is used for heating, the storage of goods or personal effects, laundry facilities,
recreational areas, the storage or parking of motor vehicles, exclusive of any private garage,
carport, basement, walkout basement, cellar, porch, veranda or sunroom unless such sunroom
is habitable during all seasons of the year;
HEIGHT means the vertical distance from the average grade to the highest point of the
structure;
HIGHWAY includes a street, road, lane, and any other way open to public use, but does not
include a private right-of-way on private property;
HIGH WATER MARK means the visible high-water mark of a stream where the presence and
action of water are so common and usual, and so long continued in all ordinary years, as to
mark on the soil of the bed of the stream a character distinct from its bank, in vegetation, as
well as the nature of the soil itself, and includes the active floodplain;
HOME BASED BUSINESS means an occupation or profession conducted by the owner or
occupant that is incidental to the use of a dwelling unit for residential purposes or to the
residential use of a lot occupied by a dwelling and includes:
the office or a studio of a person engaged in business, art, health, crafts, or
instruction;
the operation of a childcare centre;
HOTEL means a building which contains sleeping units and may contain accessory assembly,
commerce, entertainment, indoor recreation, or restaurant uses, and premises licensed to serve
alcoholic beverages, and includes motel, resort, or lodge;
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
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HORTICULTURE means the practice of growing fruits, vegetables, flowers or ornamental
plants and shrubs, but excludes their sale, either through wholesale or retail, except as expressly
as may be provided for in this bylaw;
HOUSEHOLD means a family or up to five unrelated people who live in the same dwelling and
share meals;
INDUSTRY means processing, fabricating, assembling, storing, transporting, distributing,
wholesaling, testing, servicing, repairing or salvaging goods, materials, or things;
INSTITUTION includes public recreation facilities, colleges, community halls, cemetery, court
of law, municipal offices, community services, provincial or federal offices including a post office,
school district offices, fire and ambulance stations, hospitals, library, childcare centre, police
station, parks, playgrounds, public art gallery, public museum, school;
KENNEL means the keeping of three (3) or more dogs on a parcel or in a dwelling, building or
range of buildings;
LANE means a highway which provides a second access to a parcel and is less than 11 metres
wide;
LIGHT MANUFACTURING means a use which is wholly enclosed within the building except
for parking and loading facilities, and outside storage accessory to the permitted uses and which
in its operation does not ordinarily result in emission from the building of odours, fumes, noise,
cinder, vibrations, heat, glare or electrical interference and includes such uses as cabinet and
furniture manufacturing, door & window manufacturing, metal fabrication, boat building and
repair and modular or prefabricated home manufacturing;
LOCAL GROCERY STORE means a local convenience store or small store that is intended to
sell food to serve the needs of the surrounding residential neighbourhood only;
LODGING AND BOARDING HOUSE means a building where sleeping or lodging
accommodation is provided with or without meals for remuneration through private and public
funds;
MARINA means moorage and launching facilities including the rental, maintenance of boats
and marine engines and the provision of marine fuel;
MARINA SALES mean the use of land, buildings and structures for the sale and rental of boats,
and accessory marine equipment, but specifically excluding boat building and repair;
MOBILE HOME means a manufactured structure, CSA approved with a Z240 rating, or other
Provincial or Federal designation, which was constructed in 1980 or newer, and assembled as
a unit which is intended to be capable of movement from place to place and which contains one
dwelling unit with bathroom facilities, and specifically excludes travel trailers, campers or other
vehicles exempt from the provisions or the Manufactured Home Act;
MOBILE HOME PARK includes a single unit dwelling for the operator of the mobile home park
and accessory uses including laundry, storage, and playground facilities;
MULTI-UNIT RESIDENCE means occupancy or use of a building as three or more dwellings
and includes townhouses and apartments;
MOBILITY SCOOTER means an electrically powered scooter with three or four wheels
designed for people with restricted mobility, typically those who are elderly or disabled;
NATURAL BOUNDARY means the set distance from visible high watermark of any lake, river,
stream or other body of water where the presence and action of the water at the time of
measurement are so common and usual and so long continued in all ordinary years as to mark
upon the soil of the bed of the lake, river, stream or other body of water a character distinct
from that of the banks thereof, in respect to vegetation, as well as in respect to the nature of
the soil itself and shall include the edge of dormant or old side channels or marsh areas;
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
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PARCEL means any lot, block or other area in which land is held or into which it is subdivided,
but does not include a highway;
PARCEL COVERAGE means the gross floor area of the building footprints on a parcel
expressed as a percentage of the total parcel area;
PARCEL LINE, EXTERIOR SIDE means a parcel boundary, other than a front parcel line,
located between a parcel and a highway;
PARCEL LINE, FRONT means a parcel boundary contiguous to a highway other than a lane,
provided that in respect of a corner parcel, the front parcel line shall be the shortest parcel
boundary contiguous to a highway other than a lane;
PARCEL LINE, INTERIOR SIDE means a parcel boundary between two parcels other than a
front, rear or exterior side parcel line;
PARCEL LINE, REAR means the parcel boundary which lies the most opposite to and is not
connected to the front parcel line;
PARKING SPACE means an area identified for the parking of one motor vehicle within a
building or parking area, excluding driveways, aisles and loading areas;
PAWNSHOP means a business engaged in the loan of money in exchange for a pledge or
security;
PERSONAL SERVICES ESTABLISHMENT means a business where professional or personal
services are provided for gain and where the sale at retail of goods, wares, merchandise, articles
or things is only accessory to the provisions of such services, including but without limiting the
generality of the foregoing, the following: barber shops, beauty shops, tailor shops, laundry or
dry-cleaning shops, shoe repair shops, hair, nails, tax, bank, laundromat, dry cleaning, etc.;
PREMISES means land and improvements as defined in the Assessment Act;
PRINCIPAL means the primary purpose for which land, buildings or structures are ordinarily
used;
PUBLIC ASSEMBLY USE means a facility where people congregate in seats to attend events
such as sporting events, meetings, theatre, and live performance venues, but excludes worship
centres;
PUBLIC USE means land, buildings or facilities provided by a government or agency of
government for public parks and recreation facilities, education, health, welfare, administration,
safety, communications, or public works;
PUBLIC UTILITY USE means a use providing for public utility facilities for water, sewer,
electrical, telephone, cable, and similar services where such use is approved by the Town;
RAVINE means a steep, narrow-sided valley that is commonly eroded by running water and
has a slope grade greater than 3:1;
RENTAL ONLY means the form of tenure for a residential dwelling unit is restricted to rental
only.
RESIDENCE means-
occupancy or use of a building or part thereof as a dwelling; and
the dwelling occupied or used as such;
RETAIL means the sale of goods, wares, or merchandise to the ultimate consumer for their
personal consumption; and these may include operations such as bakeries, grocery, and
clothing stores, but does not include the use of the sale of motor vehicle fuels, heavy agricultural
and industrial equipment, or adult entertainment;
RESTAURANT means an establishment for the sale of prepared food to the public, and may
have a Food-Primary License under the BC Liquor Control and Licensing Act;
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
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RIPARIAN ASSESSMENT AREA means
for a stream, the 30-metre strip on both sides of the stream, measured from the high-
water mark (see Figure 1-Assessment Area);
for a ravine less than 60 metres wide, a strip on both sides of the stream measured
from the high-water mark to a point that is 30 metres beyond the top of the ravine
bank (see Figure 2-Assessment Area for Ravines); and
for a ravine 60 metres wide or greater, a strip on both sides of the stream measured
form the high-water mark to a point that is 10 metres beyond the top of the ravine
bank (see Figure 2-Assessment Area for Ravines).
Figure 1 Assessment area
Figure 2 Assessment area for ravines
QUADPLEX means a residential building containing four separate units;
SCREENING means a continuous fence, wall, compact evergreen hedge or combination
thereof;
SENIORS' CARE FACILITY means a facility licensed under the Community Care and Assisted
Living Act, providing sleeping units as well as medical, food and personal services for elderly
persons but does not include privately owned dwelling units;
SENIOR CITIZEN HOUSING means affordable rental accommodation for persons over 55
years of age and constructed under provincial or federal cost sharing or funding programs and
operated by provincial, federal, or municipal governments, or non-profit societies;
SERVICE STATION means premises used principally for the retail sale of motor fuels,
lubricating oils and motor vehicle accessories and/or the servicing of motor vehicles;
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SETBACK means the minimum permitted distance required under this bylaw between a building
and a specified parcel of land or watercourse;
SHOPPING CENTRE means a commercial development, containing at least three individual
business establishments conceived and designed as a single, comprehensively planned
development project with appropriate relationships between the shopping centres buildings,
activities, open spaces, parking areas, loading areas, driveways, other shared facilities, public
areas and adjoining streets, and held in single ownership or by participants in a condominium
corporation or commercial cooperative;
SHORT-TERM VACATION RENTAL means a building that contains a room, or a set of rooms,
which may have a kitchen; and that is offered for rent to the travelling public on a temporary
basis of 31 days or less and is subject to all the conditions listed under Part VI Conditions for
Short Term Vacation Rentals;
SILVICULTURE means all resource use activities related to the development and care of
forests for commercial purposes, including seedling and tree nursery and harvesting, but
specifically excluding the processing of wood or wood products;
SINGLE DETACHED DWELLING means a detached building containing one dwelling occupied
or intended to be occupied as a single residence by a household, except where the zoning
permits an accessory use where another dwelling can be contained within or above the other;
SMALL HOUSE means a small single unit residential dwelling of at least 29 square metres and
no more than 90 square metres which is designed to fit on a small lot and within a
neighbourhood of similarly proportioned dwellings;
SOCIAL ORGANIZATION means a fraternal lodge, social hall, or activity centre;
SPECIAL NEEDS HOUSING means housing specially designed or adapted for those with
physical or social needs, such as those of the elderly or disabled, or with specialist staffing
support such as those with a mental health problem; this definition specifically excludes any
type of housing, including housing for senior citizens or the elderly, that does not incorporate
on-site support services to address physical, mental, or social needs
STORAGE CONTAINER means a large portable metal cargo container, new or previously used
for the transport of goods and is intended for the use of providing temporary or permanent
storage for goods, and is like that illustrated in Figure 3:
Figure 3 Storage container
STRUCTURE means any construction fixed to, supported by, or sunk into land or water but
not concrete, asphalt or similar surfacing of a parcel;
TANDEM PARKING means two parking spaces, one behind the other, with a common or
shared point of access (See Figure 1 - Bylaw 1104)
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TOP OF RAVINE BANK means the first significant break in a ravine slope where the break
occurs such that the grade beyond the break is flatter than 3:1 for a minimum distance of 15
metres measured perpendicularly from the break, and the break does not include a bench within
the ravine that could be developed;
TOWN means the Town of Lake Cowichan;
TOWNHOUSE means a building, other than an apartment, containing three or more dwellings
with each dwelling having a separate entrance;
TRIPLEX means a residential building containing three separate units;
TWO UNIT RESIDENCE means a building consisting of two dwellings placed one above the
other or within the principal residence (secondary suite) or side by side in a principal building
or a single parcel;
UNBUNDLED PARKING means separate housing and parking costs in a residential apartment
building;
USE means the purpose or function to which land, the surface water, buildings, or structures
are designed, placed, or intended to be placed;
VAPOUR PRODUCT means the following:
(a)
an e-cigarette;
(b)
an e-substance;
(c)
a cartridge for or a component of an e-cigarette.
WAREHOUSE means a building used primarily for the storage of goods and materials and
includes feed, seed and fertilizer storage, cold storage, and a frozen food locker;
WATERCOURSE means any natural or man-made depression with well-defined banks and a
bed zero point six (0.6) metres or more below the surrounding land serving to give direction to
a current of water at least six months of the year or having a drainage area of two (2) square
kilometres or more upstream of the point of consideration;
WORSHIP CENTRE means any assembly building used for public worship of any faith; and
ZERO-LOT LINE SETBACK means a setback of zero metres which permits a building or
structure to be set on one of its interior side lot lines.
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PART IV. LAND USE CATEGORIES AND REGULATIONS
ZONING CATEGORIES
The Town of Lake Cowichan is divided into the land use categories or zones briefly described in
Column I of Table 1. Column II denotes the letter reference that appears on Schedule A, the Zoning
Map, which forms a part of this bylaw. The descriptions in Table 1 are for convenience only.
TABLE 1 ZONE CATEGORY
NAME OF ZONE
MAP SYMBOL
RESIDENTIAL ZONES
Suburban
R-1
Urban
R-2
Traditional Urban
R-3
Medium Density
R-4
Single Detached and Duplex
R-5
Small House
R-6
Multi-unit
R-7
COMMERICAL ZONES
General Commercial
C-1
Mixed Use Commercial
C-1-A
Limited Commercial and Residential
C-1-B
Local Commercial
C-2
Lakefront and Riverfront Commercial
C-3
Business Commercial
C-4
INDUSTRIAL ZONES
Light Industrial
I-1
Heavy Industrial
I-2
PUBLIC USE
Public Use (Parks and Institution)
P-1
WATER ZONE
Water Recreation
W-1
COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENT ZONE
Comprehensive Development
CD-1
Tiny House Comprehensive Development Zone CD-2
For convenience Table II identifies the change in names and symbols for residential zone districts from the 2013 Bylaw.
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LOCATION AND EXTENT OF LAND USES
The location and extent of land subject to each of the zoning Categories established in Section 4.1
of this bylaw are outlined on Schedule A, Zoning Map, of this bylaw.
GENERAL REGULATIONS, REQUIREMENTS AND PROVISIONS
Siting
The siting regulations of this bylaw apply to parcels and, notwithstanding the
generality of the foregoing, to bare land strata lots.
The interior side parcel line requirements of this bylaw shall not apply to strata lots
under a registered plan pursuant to the Condominium Act where there is a common
wall shared by two or more dwellings within a building.
Setbacks
Except as otherwise provided zones, the setback requirements of this bylaw do not
apply with respect to:
i.
gutters, cornices, sills, belt courses, bay windows, chimneys, exterior finish,
heating, or ventilation equipment if the projections do not exceed one metre,
measured horizontally; and
ii.
eaves, porches, unenclosed stairwells, or balconies, canopies, and sunlight
control projections if the projections, measured horizontally, do not exceed:
(a) 1.0 metres in the case of a side yard, or
(b) 2.0 metres in the case of a front and rear yard.
The following features may project over a public right-of-way of width thirty-three
feet or greater, provided always that measurements to nearest finished grade shall
be made with reference to the nearest constructed or proposed street, sidewalk, right-
of-way, or lot surface:
Table II Residential District Names and Symbol Changes
Former
2013
Bylaw
District
Name
Suburban
Single
Family
Residential Urban
Modular
Home
Single
Family and
Duplex
Tiny
House
Multi-
family
Former
2013
Bylaw
District
Symbol
R-2
R-1-A
R-1
R-4-A
R-1-b, c
THR
R-3
New
District
Name
Suburban Urban
Traditional
Urban
Medium
density
Single
Detached
and Duplex
Small
House
Multi-
unit
New
District
Symbol
R-1
R-2
R-3
R-4
R-5
R-6
R-7
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
15
i.
cornices, eaves, and gutters projecting not more than 0.6 metres from the
building wall, is less than 3.6 metres from the nearest finished grade.
ii.
marquees, canopies, and signs projecting not more than 1.8 metres from the
building wall, provided that the underside of the marquee, canopy or sign is not
less than 2.8 metres nor more than 3.6 metres from the nearest finished grade.
A fence or wall may be located in a required setback area.
Attached Garages, Carports
A garage or a carport attached to a principal building is deemed to be a portion of the
principal building.
Utilities, Civic Uses and Parks and Playgrounds
The following are permitted in all zones:
Civic use,
Public utility use, and
Parks and playgrounds.
Number of Buildings and Structures per Parcel
Not more than one principal building shall be located on any one parcel except as
specifically permitted by this bylaw.
Accessory Buildings and Structures
Buildings and structures accessory to principal uses, buildings and structures are
permitted in any zone.
No accessory building or structure shall be situated on a parcel unless the principal
building, to which the accessory building is incidental, has been erected or will be
erected simultaneously with the accessory building on the same parcel except as
provided in Article 4.3.6 d.
An accessory building shall not be used as a dwelling except as otherwise provided in
this bylaw.
Article 4.3.6 b. does not apply to any publicly owned and operated land use, building,
or structure in any zone district; and any building, structure or use that may otherwise
be considered as an accessory use, such as a garage, storage container, storage
building, or washroom, is considered a principal use.
A storage container, where expressly permitted, shall be entirely enclosed, or wholly
screened.
Height
Notwithstanding height restrictions in this bylaw,
an industrial crane, tower tank and bunker, antenna, church spire, belfry and dome,
monument, stadium bleachers, lighting pole, flagpole, fire tower, transmission tower,
elevator shaft, stair tower, scenery loft or other necessary mechanical apparatus,
usually carried above the roof level may exceed the height limitations of this bylaw
provided,
i.
such features shall be erected only to such a height as is necessary to accomplish
the purpose they serve, and.
ii.
in the case of a roof mounted feature that does not have a cross-sectional area
in excess of twenty percent of the ground floor area in the building, and
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
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on a corner contiguous to a highway intersection, no structure shall be allowed at a
height greater than 1.0 metre above the established elevation of the centre point of
intersecting highway, and within an area extending out from the corner of the parcel
and bound by a line joining a point on each parcel line, a distance of 6.0 metres from
the corner parcel. For greater certainty, a diagram shown as part of this section and
labelled 'Figure 4' depicts the area described in this section.
Figure 4 Described area of sight triangle
Fences and Retaining Walls
Except as otherwise specifically stated in this bylaw and subject to traffic sight lines,
the maximum height of a fence or retaining wall shall be 2.0 metres, except as may
otherwise be provided in this Bylaw.
The height of a fence or wall following the slope of the property shall be measured
from the finished grade to the top of the fence; or in the case of a stepped down
fence, the height shall be measured at the mid-point between the posts of fence
panels, as shown:
Figure 5 Height measurement for stepped down fencing
In zones where commercial uses are permitted, a fence or wall erected or placed
along a boundary line on any parcel shall not exceed 2.0 metres in height;
In zones where industrial zones are permitted, a fence erected shall be an opaque
2.4 metres in height;
In zones where residential uses are permitted, a fence at the front of the lot shall not
exceed 1.2 metres and at the sides and rear shall not exceed 2.0 metres; and
In the case of a retaining wall constructed in accordance with Subsection 4.3.9, the
combined height of a fence on top of a retaining wall shall not exceed the heights
permitted for the zone and measured from average grade at the property line.
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
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Screening
Screening may be required by of the owner of a parcel at the time of the development
of the parcel and shall be constructed, erected, installed, or planted prior to the
occupancy of the building or structure constructed, erected, or located on the parcel;
Screening having a height of not less than 2.0 metres shall be provided by the owner
of a parcel designated as I-1 Light Industrial and Heavy Industrial I-2 along all parcel
boundaries which abuts parcels designated Residential and P-1 Public Use.
Parking and Loading
Paved space for the off-street parking and loading shall be provided and maintained
in accordance with the regulations set out in Schedule B of this bylaw.
The regulations contained in this section do not apply to buildings, structures, and
uses existing as of the date of adoption of this bylaw except that:
i.
off-street parking and loading shall be provided and maintained in accordance
with this bylaw for any addition to and existing building or structure or change
or addition to the existing use; and
ii.
the number of off-street parking or loading spaces provided prior to the date of
adoption of this bylaw shall not be reduced below the applicable off-street
parking or loading space requirements as set out in Schedule B, Parking Spaces.
The property owner may, in lieu of providing parking as specified in Schedule B,
Parking Spaces, pay the municipality funds to construct, expand or maintain
municipally operated parking facilities located within 50 metres of the property. A fee
calculated on a square metre or spaces required basis as specified in the Development
Procedures Manual shall be paid to the Town at the time of development. This does
not apply to loading requirements.
Home Based Business
In the zones permitted, a home-based business use shall require:
that all activity be conducted within the interior of the principal dwelling, except for
the production of fruits, vegetables, or plants;
that the activity be clearly subservient and incidental to the use of the dwelling for
residential purposes, and to the residential use of the lot on which the dwelling is
located, and for certainty a home occupation is only permitted where it is ancillary to
a permitted residential use;
no alteration be made to the external appearance of the property which indicates that
a home occupation is being conducted on the premises;
that there be no noise, vibration, dust, smoke, odour, heat, or traffic generation other
than that normally associated with a dwelling;
that there be no external storage or outdoor display of materials, equipment, or
finished products;
that there be no retail sales or commodities offered for sale at the dwelling;
that there be no use of materials or products that produce flammable or explosive
vapours or gases, or liable to explode under ordinary temperatures;
that not more than 40% of the gross floor area of the residential dwelling up to a
total maximum area of 80 square metres be used for the home occupation use; and
the provision of two off-street parking spaces is met.
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
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Tree Cutting
A tree cutting permit will be required prior to the removal of any trees or portions of trees
within the designated Development Permit Areas as specified in the Official Community
Plan.
Floodplain Provisions
Notwithstanding any other provisions of this bylaw, no building or any part thereof shall
be constructed, reconstructed, moved, or extended nor shall any mobile home or unit,
modular home or structure be located:
within 30 metres of the natural boundary of the Cowichan River and Lake Cowichan;
within 30 metres of the natural boundary of any other watercourse, or less as may
be determined by a Streamside Protection and Enhancement Area (SPEA) as
recommended by a Qualified Environmental Professional (QEP);
with the underside of a wooden floor system or top of concrete slab of any area used
for habitation, business, or storage of goods damageable by floodwaters, or in the
case of a mobile home or unit the ground level or top of concrete or asphalt pad on
which it is located shall not be lower than elevation 167.33 metres Geodetic Survey
of Canada datum for locations adjacent to Cowichan Lake. Furthermore, elevations
shall be no lower than the flood construction level for the Cowichan River where it
has been determined to the satisfaction of the Town of Lake Cowichan or lower than
1.5 metres above the natural boundary of any other watercourse, lake, swamp, or
pond;
required elevation may be achieved by structural elevation of the said habitable,
business, or storage area by adequately compacted landfill on which any building is
to be constructed or mobile home or unit located, or by a combination of both
structural elevation and landfill. No area below the required elevation shall be used
for the installation of furnaces or other fixed equipment susceptible to damage by
floodwater; and
where landfill is used to achieve the required elevation stated in Article 4.3.13 c above,
no portion of the landfill slope shall be closer than the distance in Articles 4.3.13 a
and b from the natural boundary.
Riparian Area Regulations
The following conditions must be met prior to allowing development to occur in the
"riparian assessment area" (as defined):
A qualified professional:
i.
certifies that they are qualified to conduct the assessment;
ii.
certifies that the assessment methods have been followed;
iii.
provides their professional opinion that there will be no harmful alteration,
destruction, or disruption of natural features, functions, and conditions (as
defined) that support fish life processes in the riparian assessment area; and
iv.
the local government is notified by the Ministry of Environment, that the Ministry
of Environment and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans have been notified
of the development proposal and provided with a copy of the assessment report
prepared by a qualified environmental professional that meets the
aforementioned conditions in Clause i, ii and iii.
A Department of Fisheries and Oceans authorization for the development.
Major Highways
For the purposes of this bylaw Highway 18 and the Youbou Road are hereby
designated as major highways.
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
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No building, structure or use shall be located within 4.5 metres of the boundary of a
right-of-way of a major highway designated in the aforementioned Article 4.3.15 a.
Vehicle Restrictions
No lot in any zone shall be used for the wrecking or storage of derelict vehicles or
more than 1 unlicensed motor vehicle except where specifically permitted.
No more than one (1) unlicensed motor vehicle shall be kept on any lot unless
completely enclosed within a building, except where specifically permitted.
No lot shall be used for the parking or storage of any trailer, recreational vehicle,
camper, boat, or other vehicle unless a principal residential use has been established
on the lot.
No improved residential lot shall be used for the parking or storage of more than a
total of four (4) motor vehicles, trailers, recreational vehicles, campers, boats, or other
vehicles, unless completely enclosed within a building, or as specifically provided for
in this bylaw.
Human habitation, occupancy, or residency in any trailer, recreational vehicle,
camper, or other vehicle is prohibited on all lots in every zone, except in zones where
"campground" is either a specific permitted use, a legal non-conforming use or as
specifically provided for in this bylaw.
Restricted Uses
Unless specifically permitted by this bylaw, no parcel shall be used for:
a kennel;
outdoor storage yard;
storage sheds within setback area;
storage containers;
pawnshops;
cannabis retail store, except in accordance with the approval of a Temporary Use
Permit and the Cannabis Retail Sales Policy of Council; any use not expressly
permitted or authorized by this bylaw.
COMMUNITY CARE FACILITY
All single-unit residential buildings may be used as a community care facility, licensed
under the Community Care and Assisted Living Act, as may be amended from time to
time, for the purpose of providing:
a day care for no more than eight (8) persons;
a residence for no more 10 persons, not more than six (6) of whom are persons
in care.
GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR BACKYARD HENS
A maximum of six (6) hens may be kept on a Single improved parcel within the
Suburban (R-1),Urban (R-2) and Medium Density (R-4) Residential Zones where the lot
is greater than 450 m2.
A backyard hen enclosure consisting of a coop and pen must be provided and
maintained in accordance with the Animal Control Bylaw, and must be:
located not less than 1.0 m from the rear parcel line, exterior side parcel line and
interior side parcel lines;
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
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located not less than 3.0 m from any door or window of a dwelling unit;
located within the rear yard of the parcel; and
not more than 3 m in height.
Slaughtering is prohibited.
No coop or pen for hens may be housed within:
30 metres of the natural boundary of the Cowichan River;
15 metres of the natural boundary of any other watercourse;
7.5 metres of the natural boundary of a lake, swamp, or pond; and
enclosures securing the hens must not encroach the riparian setbacks
heretofore established nor are hens permitted to roam at large.
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
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PART V. REGULATIONS FOR EACH ZONE
LOW AND MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL ZONE DISTRICTS
Intent of Zone Districts
a. Suburban Residential R-1
The intent of the Suburban Residential R-1 Zone is to provide for single detached
residential dwellings in a low-density environment.
Urban Residential R-2
The intent of the Urban Residential R-2 Zone is to provide for primarily detached
residential dwellings in a low-density urban setting.
Traditional Urban Residential R-3.
The intent of the Traditional Urban Residential R-3 Zone is to provide for a variety of
residential dwelling types of medium density in an urban setting.
Medium Density Residential R-4
The intent of the Medium Density Residential R-4 Zone is to provide for single detached
residential dwellings, including manufactured homes, on compact lots in a medium
density environment.
Residential R-5
The intent of the Single Detached and Duplex Residential R-5 Zone is to provide for a
single detached and duplex dwelling types on small lots in a medium density urban
setting.
Small House Residential R-6
The intent of the Small House Residential R-6 Zone is to provide for small single
detached dwellings on small lots in a medium density urban setting.
Permitted Principal Uses
Residential
District Name and
Symbol
Suburban
R-1
Urban
R-2
Traditional
Urban
R-3
Medium
density
R-4
Single
Detached
and
Duplex
R-5
Small
House
R-6
Principal Uses
Single detached
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
Duplex
✓
✓
✓
✓
Lodge /
boarding house
✓
Triplex
✓
✓
Quadplex
✓
✓
Townhouse
✓
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
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Permitted Accessory Uses
a. Permitted Accessory Use Table
Residential
District Name
and Symbol
Suburban
R-1
Urban
R-2
Traditional Urban
R-3
Medium
density
R-4
Single
Detached and
Duplex R-5
Small
House
R-6
Accessory Uses
Secondary
Suite in
single
detached
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
Secondary
suite in
duplex
✓
✓
✓
Garden
Suite
✓
✓
✓
Coach
House
✓
✓
✓
Bed and
Breakfast
✓
Home-
based
Business
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
b.
Accessory Use Limitations and Special Considerations
i.
Notwithstanding the provisions in Article 5.1.3 b., a garden suite or coach
house is prohibited on lots without municipal sewer and water service.
ii.
On a lot with a duplex, accessory dwelling units are restricted to secondary
suites, subject to provisions within Article 5.1.3 b.; a coach house or garden
suite is prohibited.
iii.
In all low and medium density residential zone districts one accessory dwelling
unit is permitted on a lot.
iv.
Suburban R-1 zone
a.
One of three types of accessory dwelling unit is permitted on a lot with
a single detached dwelling: a secondary suite, a garden suite, or a coach
house.
b.
A home-based business is permitted if
(a)
the combined area of a secondary suite and the area devoted to
the home-based business does not exceed 40% of the gross floor
area of the residential dwelling up to a total of 80 square metres;
or
(b) the accessory dwelling is in a separate structure such as a garden
suite or coach house.
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
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v.
Urban R-2 zone
a.
One of three types of accessory dwelling unit is permitted on a lot with
a single detached dwelling: a secondary suite, or a garden suite or a
coach house.
b.
A secondary suite is permitted on a lot with a duplex, provided it is a lot
of a minimum 780 square metres.
c.
A bed and breakfast is permitted if there is no accessory dwelling, or the
accessory dwelling or the bed and breakfast bedrooms are in a separate
structure, such as a garden suite, or coach house or other type of
accessory building.
d.
A home-based business is permitted if
(a)
the combined area of a secondary suite and the area devoted to
the home-based business does not exceed 40% of the gross floor
area of the residential dwelling up to a total of 80 square metres;
or
(b) the accessory dwelling is in a separate structure such as a garden
suite or coach house.
vi.
Traditional Urban R-3 zone
a.
One of three types of accessory dwelling unit is permitted: a secondary
suite, or a garden suite, or a coach house is permitted on a lot with a
single detached dwelling.
b.
A secondary suite is permitted on a lot with a duplex, provided it is a
corner lot, or has a garage with tandem parking, or lot of a minimum
780 square metres.
c.
A home-based business is permitted if
(a)
the combined area of a secondary suite and the area devoted to
the home-based business does not exceed 40% of the gross floor
area of the residential dwelling up to a total of 80 square metres;
or
(b) the accessory dwelling is in a separate structure such as a garden
suite or coach house.
vii.
Medium Density R-4 zone
a.
A secondary suite is permitted on a lot with a single detached dwelling.
b.
A secondary suite is permitted on a lot with a duplex provided it is a
corner lot or has a garage with tandem parking or is on a lot of a
minimum 780 square metres.
c.
A home-based business is permitted if the combined area of a secondary
suite and the area devoted to the home-based business does not exceed
40% of the gross floor area of the residential dwelling up to a maximum
total of 80 square metres.
viii. Single Detached and Duplex R-5 zone
a. A secondary suite is permitted on a lot with a single detached dwelling.
b. A secondary suite is permitted on a lot with a duplex, provided it is a corner lot,
or has a garage with tandem parking, or lot of a minimum 780 square metres.
c. A home-based business is permitted if the combined area of a secondary suite
and the area devoted to the home-based business does not exceed 40% of the
gross floor area of the residential dwelling up to a maximum total of 80 square
metres.
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
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ix. Small House R-6 zone
a.
A secondary suite is permitted in a single detached dwelling subject to
the following:
(i)
The secondary suite is in a basement or in a walk out garden level.
(ii)
The maximum lot coverage is 50%.
(iii) One of the required off street vehicle spaces is a garage.
b.
A home-based business is permitted if the combined area of a secondary
suite and the area devoted to the home-based business does not exceed
40% of the gross floor area of the residential dwelling up to a maximum
total of 80 square metres.
Site Specific Permitted Principal and Accessory Uses
Suburban R-1
Urban R-2
i.
Principal Uses
(a) Rental only tenure for 25% of all units of any housing type for land legally
described as Lot B, Plan VIP 29595, District Lot 16, Cowichan Lake Land
District (PID: 001-378-635), also known as 7995 Cowichan Lake Road, as
depicted on Schedule "A".
Traditional Urban R-3
i.
Principal Uses
(a) Silviculture for Lots 1 to 4, Plan VIP74849, District Lots 10 & 14, silviculture,
subject to the following conditions:
(i)
a minimum lot size of 40,000 square metres;
(ii)
leave strips along streams shall be established in accordance with the
requirements of the Riparian Area Regulations; and
(iii)
leave strips of a minimum of a minimum 10 metre width shall be
established for the purpose of protecting the visual aesthetics along the
primary roadway adjacent to the Town-owned campground and leading
to the Cowichan Lake Educational Centre.
(b) Rental only tenure for 25% of all units of any housing type for Lot B, Plan VIP
44661, District Lot 16, Cowichan Lake Land District (PID: 006-130-453), also
known as Cowichan Lake Road and depicted on Schedule "A".
(c) Rental only tenure for 100% of units on Lot 3, Section 6, Renfrew Land District,
Plan VIP5580 (PID: 005-990-254), also known as 118 MacDonald Road, as
depicted on Schedule "A".
ii.
Accessory Uses
(a) Development and care of forests for use for Lots 1 to 4, Plan VIP74849, District
Lots 10 & 14.
(b) Bed and Breakfast, accessory to principal single detached residential use for
Lot 3, Block 4, Section 5, Plan 1750 only.
Medium Density R-4
i. Principal Uses
(a) Rental only tenure for 100% of units on the 0.89 acre parcel within the
unrecorded subdivision of Lot A, Section 6, District Lot 13, Cowichan Lake
Land District, Plan VIP64669 (PID: 023-666-056), also known as Point Ideal
Drive, as depicted on Schedule "A".
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
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(b) Rental only tenure for 100% of units on Lot 16, Block 6, Plan VIP 1231, District
Lot 12, Cowichan Lake Land District (PID: 007-656-033), also known as 89
Lakeview Avenue.
Single Detached and Duplex R-5
Small House R-6
Zone District Subcategory Permitted Principal and Accessory Uses
Zone district subcategories s are denoted on the Schedule A Zoning Map with the
corresponding letter.
Suburban R-1
Urban R-2
i.
Designation R, denoted as R-2-R on the map, is to permit 'rental only' dwellings
in accordance with the Local Government Act. Any parcel specific standards are
described within Subsection 5.1.4 Site Specific Permitted Principal and
Accessory Uses.
Traditional Urban R-3
i.
Designation R, denoted as R-3-R on the map, is to permit 'rental only' dwellings
in accordance with the Local Government Act. Any parcel specific standards are
described within Subsection 5.1.4 Site Specific Permitted Principal and
Accessory Uses.
Medium Density R-4
i.
Designation R, denoted as R-4-R on the map, is to permit 'rental only' townhouse
dwellings in accordance with the Local Government Act. Any parcel specific
standards are described within Subsection 5.1.4 Site Specific Permitted
Principal and Accessory Uses.
Single Detached and Duplex R-5
i.
Designation B (denoted as R-5 B) is to permit Bed and Breakfast is an accessory
use.
Small House R-6
Standards
Low and Medium Density Residential Zone Districts Standards
District Name and Symbol
Suburban
R-1
Urban
R-2
Traditional
Urban
R-3
Medium
Density
R-4
Single
Detached
and
Duplex R-5
Small House
R-6
Standards
a. Minimum Lot Size (square metres) or lot location
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
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Low and Medium Density Residential Zone Districts Standards
District Name and Symbol
Suburban
R-1
Urban
R-2
Traditional
Urban
R-3
Medium
Density
R-4
Single
Detached
and
Duplex R-5
Small House
R-6
i.
Single dwelling
600
600
600
500
350
275
ii.
Duplex (two units
on a single lot
strata)
780
780
600
600
iii.
Duplex (two units,
each on its own fee
simple lot)
300
300
300
300
iv.
Triplex
and
quadplex
780 or corner
lot
780
or
corner
lot
v.
Townhouse
units
with individual fee
simple lots
200
b. Maximum number of storeys
3
3
3
3
3
1
1/2
c. Maximum Height (metres)
i. Principal building
11.0
11.0
11.0;
For all building types except for
townhouses the third storey shall
have a minimum roof slope of 8
vertical run to 12 horizontal run
5.5; the ridge
of
pitched
roofs with a
minimum
slope of six to
12
may
extend up to
7.6 m;
all parts of the
roof above 5.5
m
shall
be
pitched.
ii.
Accessory
building
greater than 10 m2
7.5
7.5
7.5
4.5 for
pitched
roof;
3.7 for
flat roof
7.5
4.5 for pitched
roof;
3.7
for
flat
roof
iii. Accessory structure less
than 10 m2
3.5
3.5
3.5
3.5
3.5
3.5
Maximum lot coverage (%)
30
40
50
50
50
60;
50
when
a
secondary
suite
is
present for R-
6 Small House
Zone
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
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Low and Medium Density Residential Zone Districts Standards
District Name and Symbol
Suburban
R-1
Urban
R-2
Traditional
Urban
R-3
Medium
Density
R-4
Single
Detached
and
Duplex R-5
Small House
R-6
Minimum setbacks for principal and accessory buildings or structures (metres)
i Front lot line
7.5
7.5
a) For single detached,
duplex, triplex, and
quadplex dwellings:
i) 6.1 m
ii) despite section i)
above, the front face
of the dwelling may
extend into the front
setback 1.5 m
b) For townhomes:
4.5 m to dwelling front
face and garage front
face AND front
porches may extend
into the setback
For
single
detached
and
duplex
dwellings:
a) 6.0 m to
garage
face;
b) 4.5 m to
front face
of
dwelling;
c) the garage
face shall
in
all
cases be
setback a
minimum
of 1.5 m
further
than the
dwelling
front face
1.5
ii. Rear lot line
4.5
4.5
4.5
3.0
4.5
1.5
iii. Interior side lot line
2.0
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.2
iv. Interior side lot line
for
duplexes
and
townhouses on fee
simple lots
Use shall be separated only by
a common party wall.
v. Exterior side lot line
3.0
3.0
3.0
4.0
1.5
1.5
Duplex special provisions
Front
face
differential
setbacks
The front faces of individual units shall
be setback from each other by a
minimum of 1.5 metres
Minimum setbacks for accessory structures of less than 10m2 (metres)
i. Front lot line
7.5
7.5
7.5
7.5
4.5
n/a
ii. Rear lot line
0.6
0.6
0.6
0.6
0.6
n/a
iii. Interior side lot line
0.6
0.6
0.6
0.6
0.6
n/a
iv. Exterior side lot line
3.0
3.0
3.0
4.0
1.5
n/a
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
28
Exceptions to Standards
For Lots 1 to 4, Plan VIP74849, District Lots 10 & 14.
i.
Minimum lot size is 40,000 square metres.
ii.
Minimum building setbacks for principal and accessory buildings is 30 metres for
the front lot line and 15 metres for the rear, exterior side, and interior side lot
lines.
Secondary Suite Standards
Maximum size is 40% of gross floor area of principal dwelling, or 85 square metres,
whichever is less.
iii.
Minimum size is 30 square metres.
iv.
Maximum number of bedrooms is 2 (two).
v.
Entrance shall be a separate independent entrance form the principal dwelling
entrance.
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
29
Garden Suite Standards
Maximum size is 40% of gross floor area of principal dwelling, or 60 square metres,
whichever is less.
Minimum size is 30 square metres.
Maximum number of bedrooms is 2 (two).
A Garden suite shall be located in the rear yard of the principal dwelling, except in
the case of a riverside or lakeside lot, in which case it may also be located in the
front or side yard.
5.1.10 Coach House Standards
a.
The maximum size is 40% of gross floor area of principal dwelling, or 60
square metres, whichever is less.
b.
The minimum size is 30 square metres.
c.
The maximum number of bedrooms is 2 (two).
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
30
MULTI-UNIT RESIDENTIAL ZONE DISTRICT--R-7
Intent of Zone District
The intent of the R-7 Multi- unit Residential zone is to provide for multiple residential
dwellings in medium to high density environments in accordance with Official Community
policy.
Permitted Principal Uses
Side by side two-unit dwelling (duplex)
vi.
Multi-unit dwellings (all types)
vii.
Lodges and boarding houses
Permitted Accessory Uses
Home-based business, accessory to an existing non-conforming single detached
dwelling
Secondary suite within an existing non-conforming single detached dwelling
A secondary suite is permitted on a lot with a duplex provided it is a corner lot or
has a garage with tandem parking or is on a lot of a minimum of 780 square
metres.
A home-based business is permitted in a duplex if the combined area of a
secondary suite and the area devoted to the home-based business does not exceed
40% of the gross floor area of the residential dwelling up to a maximum total of 80
square metres.
Zone District Subcategory Permitted Principal Uses (Designation 'R')
Designation R (denoted as R-7-R on the map) is to permit 'rental only' multi-unit dwellings
in accordance with the Local Government Act.
Site Specific Permitted Principal and Accessory Uses:
i. Rental only tenure for 100% of the units in any Quadplex or townhouse on the
unsubdivided remainder of Lot A and B, Plan VIP30829, Section 5, Renfrew Land
District (PID: 001-221-591 and 001-221-604), also known as 124 Elk Road and 130
Elk Road, as depicted on Schedule "A".
ii. Rental only tenure for 25% of the apartment or townhouse units on Lot 2, Plan
EPP107675, District Lot 48 (PID: 031-401-252) on Edgewood Drive, as depicted on
Schedule "A".
iii. Rental only tenure for 25% of the triplex, Quadplex, townhouse or apartment units
on Lot 2, Plan VIP 60160, Section 6, Cowichan Lake Land District (PID: 019-023-
863) also known as land on the corner of Youbou Road and MacDonald Road, as
depicted on Schedule "A".
iv. Rental only tenure for 50% of units on Lot A, Block 16, Plan 1231 (PID: 032-234-
465, also known as 15 South Shore Road (being a consolidation of Lots 6 and 7, see
CB1319203), as depicted on Schedule "A".
v. Rental only tenure for 100% of units on Lot 2, Block 9, Plan VIP 1231, District Lot
12, Cowichan Lake Land District (PID: 007-657-561), also known as 172 South Shore
Road, as depicted on Schedule "A".
vi. Rental only tenure for 100% of units on Lot 1, Block 9, Plan VIP 1231, District Lot
12, Cowichan Lake Land District, (PID: 007-657-544), also known as 96 Cowichan
Avenue, as depicted on Schedule "A".
vii. Rental only tenure for 25% of units on Lot B, Plan VIP 44661, District Lot 16,
Cowichan Lake Land District (PID: 006-130-453), also known as Cowichan Lake
Road, as depicted on Schedule "A".
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
31
viii. Rental only for 100% of units on Lot 1, Plan VIP 33840, District Lot 12, Cowichan Lake
Land District (PID: 000-260-452), also known as 61 King George Street North, as
depicted on Schedule "A".
ix. Rental only tenure for 100% of residential units on Lot 2, Plan VIP 5631, Section 6,
Cowichan Lake Land District (PID: 000-789-178), also known as 30 North Shore
Road, as depicted on Schedule "A".
x. Rental only tenure for 100% of units on Lot 16, Block 6, Plan VIP 1231, District Lot
12, Cowichan Lake Land District, (PID: 007-656-033), also known as 89 Lakeview
Avenue, as depicted on Schedule "A".
xi. Rental only tenure for 100% of units on Lot A, Plan VIP 54676, Section 6, Renfrew
Land District, Portion DD EH131286 (PID: 024-820-466), also known as 201
Cowichan Lake Road, as depicted on Schedule "A".
xii. Rental only tenure for 100% of units on Lot 14, Plan VIP6253, Section 6, Cowichan
Lake Land District (PID: 005-075-815), also known as 68 Stanley Road, as depicted
on Schedule "A".
Dimensional and Density Standards by type of structure and location
Multi-unit Residential Zone Dimensional and Density Standards
Standards
Type of structure or location
Multi-unit and
accessory
buildings
greater than
10m2
Multi-unit and
accessory
buildings in
OCP-
designated
Downtown and
Uptown areas
Two-unit
residential;
lodging and
boarding house;
Triplex and
accessory
buildings
greater than 10
m2
Accessory
structures
less than 10
m2
Maximum gross
density (units per
hectare)
n/a
100 *
n/a
n/a
Maximum lot coverage
(%)
50
75*
50
As per %
provided for
use
Minimum
landscaped
area (%)
5
5, in accordance
with development
permit process
and parking
landscape
standards
5
n/a
Minimum
recreation
area (%)
4
4
4
n/a
Front
minimum
setback (metres)
9
3
7.5
As provided
for by use
Front
maximum
setback (metres)
n/a
6
n/a
7.5
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
32
Multi-unit Residential Zone Dimensional and Density Standards
Standards
Type of structure or location
Multi-unit and
accessory
buildings
greater than
10m2
Multi-unit and
accessory
buildings in
OCP-
designated
Downtown and
Uptown areas
Two-unit
residential;
lodging and
boarding house;
Triplex and
accessory
buildings
greater than 10
m2
Accessory
structures
less than 10
m2
Exterior
lot
line
minimum
setback
(metres)
4.5
3
3.0
3.0
Maximum
exterior
setback (metres)
n/a
6
n/a
n/a
Interior
lot
line
minimum
setback
(metres)
4.5
1.5
2.0;
0.0 setback for
side-by-side two-
unit residential
(duplex) use
where separated
only by a
common party
wall
0.6
Rear Setback minimum
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
Maximum
height
(metres) and stories
11.0
17 (5 stories) *
11.0
4.5
Minimum
height
(stories)
n/a
3 habitable
stories
n/a
n/a
Minimum lot size up to
3
stories
(square
metres)
n/a
667
n/a
n/a
Minimum lot size for 4
and 5 stories (square
metres)
n/a
1,334
n/a
n/a
* Subject to rezoning to Comprehensive Development or density
bonus amenity provisions
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
33
Minimum Dwelling Unit Floor Area Standards
Dwelling Unit Type
Minimum Dwelling Size
(square metres)
Bachelor apartment
33
One-bedroom
apartment
59
Two-bedroom
apartment
70
Three-bedroom
apartment
85
More than one principal building shall be permitted where the principal use is a multi-
unit dwelling.
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
34
COMMERCIAL ZONES
Intent of Commercial Zones
The intent of the C-1 General Commercial Zone is to provide for a broad range of
commercial uses, limited manufacturing, and high-density residential uses.
The intent of the C-1-A Mixed Use Commercial Zone is to provide for a broad range
of commercial uses with a mix of residential uses at medium to high densities.
The intent of the C-1-B - Limited Commercial and Residential Zone is to provide for
a limited range of commercial uses and high-density residential uses.
The intent of the C-2 - Local Commercial Zone is to provide for limited local
commercial uses.
The intent of the C-3 - Lakefront and Riverfront Commercial Zone is to provide for
commercial uses near the lakefront and riverfront.
The intent of the C-4 - Business Commercial Zone is to provide for business and
professional office uses.
Permitted Principal and Accessory Uses
Permitted Principal and Accessory Uses
Zone Districts
Uses
C-1
C-1-A
C-1-B C-2
C-3
C-4
Legend: ✓ Principal Use;
'a' Accessory to a principal use
Art studio and art gallery
✓
✓
✓
Bed
and
breakfast
accessory
to
single
detached dwelling
a
Business and professional
services
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
Childcare facility
✓
✓
Grocery store, local
✓
Home-Based business
a
Hotel
✓
Light
manufacturing
including
boat
building,
cabinet, and furniture; door
and sash manufacturing
within a building
✓
✓
Liquor sales
✓
✓
Lodging
and
boarding
houses
✓
Marina and equipment sales ✓
✓
✓
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
35
Permitted Principal and Accessory Uses
Zone Districts
Uses
C-1
C-1-A
C-1-B C-2
C-3
C-4
Personal
service
establishment
✓
✓
✓
Repair services for small
items
such
as
shoes,
electronics,
and
similar
items
✓
✓
Residential duplex
✓
Residential multi-unit above
commercial use or at rear of
commercial use where not
fronting public street
✓
✓
✓
Residential single detached
a
a
✓
a
a
a
Residential
single
unit
attached
a
✓
Restaurant
✓
✓
Retail store
✓
✓
Service station
✓
Theatre
✓
✓
Site Specific Permitted Principal and Accessory Uses
C-1 General Commercial
i.
Boat and marine storage only on the parcel described as Lots A and B, Plan
EPP23955.
ii.
Institution use of a school on the parcel with a street address of 38 King George
Street North, and legally described as Lot 1, Plan EPP65810, District Lot 12,
Cowichan Lake Land District (PID: 029-995-680).
iii.
Rental only for 100% of residential units on Lot 2, Plan VIP 64985, District Lot 7,
Cowichan Lake Land District (PID: 023-722-371), also known as 205 South Shore
Road, as depicted on Schedule "A".
iv.
Rental only for 100% of residential units on Lot 1, Plan VIP 5896, District Lot 12,
Cowichan Lake Land District (PID: 005-938-155) also known as 155 South Shore
Road, as depicted on Schedule "A".
v.
Rental only tenure for 100% of residential units on Lot 1, Plan EPP65810, District
Lot 12, Cowichan Lake Land District (PID: 029-995-680), also known as 38 King
George Street North, as depicted on Schedule "A".
vi.
Rental only tenure for 100% of residential units on Block 18, Plan VIP 1231,
District Lot 12, Cowichan Lake Land District (PID: 007-638-191), also known as
39 King George Street North, as depicted on Schedule "A".
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 26-02-24
No. 1055-2021
36
vii.
Rental only tenure for 100% of residential units on Lot B, Plan VIP86085, District
Lot 12, Cowichan Lake Land District (PID: 027-772-845), also known as 29
Renfrew Avenue, as depicted on Schedule "A".
C-1-A Mixed Use Commercial Zone
1. Adult Vape Store where the sale of e-cigarettes and vapour products is permitted
only on Lot 1, Section 6, Renfrew District, Plan VIP27529 (PID: 002-120-003)
subject to adherence to all provincial regulations.
C-1-B Limited Commercial and Residential Zone
C-2 - Local Commercial Zone
C-3 - Lakefront and Riverfront Commercial Zone
i.
Residential Multi-unit only on the parcel described as Lot 2, Section 6, Cowichan
Lake District, Plan 5631 subject to no additional units existing on March 24, 2015.
ii.
Short term vacation rentals applicable to Lot 1, Section 6, Plan 5631 only.
C-4 - Business Commercial Zone
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
37
Dimensional and Coverage Standards
Dimensional and Coverage Standards for Commercial Zones
Standards
C-1 General
Commercial
C-1-A Mixed
Use
Commercial
C-1-B
Limited
Commercial
and
Residential
C-2
Local
Commercial
Zone
C-3
Lakefront
and
Riverfront
Commercial
C-4
Business
Commercial
Maximum lot
coverage (%)
50, 60*
50
50
50
40, 50*
50
Front
lot
line
setback
(metres)
minimum
0
1.5
1.5
7.5
0
1.5
maximum
3**
n/a
n/a
n/a
3**
n/a
Exterior side
lot
line
setback
(metres)
minimum 0
1.5
1.5
3
0
1.5
maximum
3
n/a
n/a
n/a
3
n/a
Interior side lot line
minimum
setback
(metres)
0
1.5
1.5
2
0
1.5
Rear lot line (metres)
3
3
3
3
3
3
Minimum
landscaped
area (%)
n/a
5
5
5
5
10
Maximum
height
(metres) and/or stories
10.5, 17
(5 stories)
*
10.5, 17
(5 stories) *
10.5
10.5
10.5
10.5
Minimum
height
(stories)
Two stories
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
Minimum lot size --
commercial (m2)
464
464
464
930
464
464
Minimum lot size --
residential above (m2)
464
464
464
n/a
n/a
n/a
Minimum lot size --
residential
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
600
n/a
* Subject to rezoning to Comprehensive Development or density bonus amenity provisions
** No more than 50% of the front or exterior side of a building shall be set back further than the maximum setback
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
38
Landscaping and Screening
For any boat and marine storage use, screening of storage shall include a minimum
2-metre-high opaque fence (maximum height of 2.4 metres) along all lot lines and the
use of semi-enclosed structures to contain and conceal storage on at least three sides.
Screening shall be subject to a Development Permit in accordance with Development
Permit Area Highway Commercial, Neighbourhood Centre, and Tourism Areas
Development Permit Area (DPA-5) of the Official Community Plan.
INDUSTRIAL ZONES
Intent of Zone Districts
I-1 Light Industrial Zone
The intent of the I-1 Light Industrial Zone is to provide for light industrial and service
uses.
I-2 Heavy Industrial Zone
The intent of the I-2 Heavy Industrial Zone is to provide for heavy industrial and forestry
related uses.
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
39
Permitted Principal and Accessory Uses
Principal Uses
Zone District
I-1
I-2
Aggregate processing facility
✓
Automobile body repair and painting
✓
✓
Automobile repair shop
✓
✓
Automobile sales
✓
✓
Building supplies - wholesale and retail
✓
✓
Call centres and data processing
✓
✓
Cold storage plant and/or frozen food locker
✓
✓
Computer technology related enterprises and electronics
research and development
✓
✓
Door and window manufacturing within a building
✓
✓
Feed, seed, and fertilizer storage
✓
✓
Food processing facility
✓
Forest products processing and manufacturing, excluding pulp
and paper production
✓
✓
Garden nursery
✓
✓
Heavy manufacturing
✓
Light manufacturing including boat building, cabinet, and
furniture, door, and sash manufacturing within a building
✓
✓
Log sorting
✓
Saw and shake and shingle mills
✓
Lumber yard
✓
✓
Metal fabrication
✓
✓
Modular or prefabricated home manufacturing
✓
✓
Recycling depot
✓
✓
Service station
✓
✓
Warehouse, including commercial storage
✓
✓
Welding shop, machine shop and metal fabrication
✓
✓
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
40
Dimensional and Coverage Standards
Dimensional and Coverage Standards for Industrial Zones
I-1 and I-2
Maximum height (metres)
16
Minimum lot size (square metres)
667
Maximum parcel coverage (as a
%)
50
Building setbacks
i.
Front (metres)
5.0
Rear (metres)
5.0
Exterior side (metres)
5.0
Interior side (metres)
5.0
P-1 PUBLIC USE ZONE
Intent
The intent of the P-1 - Public Use Zone is to provide for not-for-profit institutional uses.
Permitted Principal Uses
Columbarium
Institution
Municipal campground
Public recreation use
Public storage and works yards
Seniors' care facility
Senior citizen housing
Special needs facility
Sports field
Transportation station
Worship centre
Site Specific Principal and Accessory Uses
a. Principal Uses
i.
Childcare Facility for Palsson Elementary School on the site legally described as Lot B,
Section 6, Renfrew District (situated in Cowichan Lake Land District), Plan VIP61171
(PID:023-056-011) at 30 Grosskleg Way;
ii.
Childcare Facility for Lake Cowichan School on the site legally described as Lot A, Block
25, Cowichan Lake Land District, Plan VIP8127, Except Plan 41318, VIP55717, and Exc
Parcel A (DDB68607) (PID:000-534-340) at 190 South Shore Road;
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
41
iii.
Childcare Facility for Stanley Gordon School on the site legally described as Lot 13,
Block 9, District Lot 12, Cowichan Lake Land District, Plan VIP1231, Except Plan 41318
(PID: 000-374-326) at 63 Sahtlam Avenue; and
b. Accessory Uses
Storage container, accessory to principal use in Lot B, Section 6, Renfrew District
(situated in Cowichan Lake Land District), Plan VIP61171 but which must be properly
screened.
Standards
Public Use Zone Standards
Dimensions
Minimum lot size (square metres)
1,000
Maximum height (metres)
17
Maximum parcel coverage (percentage)
50
Minimum building setbacks for buildings and structures
i.
Front lot line
3.0
Rear lot line
3.0
Exterior side lot line
3.0
Interior side lot line
3.0
W-1 WATER RECREATION ZONE
Intent
The intent of the W-1 - Water Recreation Zone is to ensure the protection and preservation of
the natural state and environment of Cowichan Lake and Cowichan River and the riparian areas
adjacent to them.
Permitted uses
Beach and water-based recreational activities
Marinas, breakwaters, ramps, and floats
Navigational aids, buoys, and markers
Public and commercial wharves
Standards
Water Recreation Zone Standards
Dimensions
Minimum lot size (square metres)
1,000
Maximum height (metres)
3.0
Maximum parcel coverage (percentage)
10
Minimum building setbacks for buildings and
structures
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
42
Water Recreation Zone Standards
Dimensions
i.
Front lot line
7.5
Rear lot line
7.5
Exterior side lot line
7.5
Interior side lot line
7.5
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
43
Conditions of Use
All development shall be undertaken by Development Permit as outlined in the
Community Plan
The use of docks, rafts, docking berths or such floatation devices necessary for the
operation of a marina must receive appropriate permits and approvals from the
provincial and/or federal department responsible for administration of foreshore lands.
No residential use of floats, piers or vessels or the storage of vessels of any kind is
permitted in this zone.
The following are prohibited: boat houses, houseboats, and boat shelters.
All use of this zone shall adhere to the legal requirements of the Canada Shipping Act:
Boating Restriction Regulations
CD-1 - COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENT ZONE
Intent
The intent of a CD-1 Comprehensive Development Zone is to accommodate and regulate
the development of a mixture of uses as an integrated unit based on a comprehensive area
plan or as referenced in the Official Community Plan. A unique Comprehensive Development
Zone shall be prepared and applied to each specific site in accordance with the regulations
contained in this Section.
Permitted Uses
Agriculture
Institution
Silviculture
No additional uses are permitted within this zone until and unless a zoning amendment
application is made and approved.
Standards
Comprehensive Development Zone Standards
Dimensions
Minimum lot size (square metres)
1,000
Maximum height (metres)
17
Maximum parcel coverage (percentage)
50
Minimum building setbacks for buildings and
structures (metres)
i.
Front lot line
3.0
i.
Rear lot line
3.0
ii.
Exterior side lot line
3.0
iii.
Interior side lot line
3.0
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
44
Documentation
Every applicant for Comprehensive Development Zoning or every applicant making
application to develop or subdivide lands, or construct buildings or structures within a
Comprehensive Development Zone shall submit the following to Council:
i.
An appropriate zoning amendment application completed and approved to fit
required uses.
A site plan, including the legal description of the land, showing the location of all
existing or proposed buildings, streets, lanes, highways, parking and loading areas,
sidewalks, street lighting, utilities and utility easements, streams, and other
topographical features of the site;
Preliminary architectural plans of any proposed buildings;
Existing and proposed grades and their relation to the elevation of adjoining
properties;
The location, size, height, and orientation of signs;
The location and treatment of open spaces, screening, and landscaping.
CD-2 TINY HOUSE RESIDENTIAL (THR) COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENT ZONE
Intent
The intent of the CD-2 Tiny House Residential Comprehensive Development Zone is to
accommodate and support the development of a tiny house neighbourhood.
Permitted Uses
Single detached dwelling
Accessory Uses
Home-based business
CD-3 PUBLIC USE AND RENTAL HOUSING COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENT ZONE
Intent
The intent of the CD-3 Public Use and Rental Housing Comprehensive Development Zone is
to accommodate and support the development of "rental only" designation.
Permitted Uses
All the listed uses of the P-1 Public Use Zone
Rental only tenure for 100% of the multi-unit housing, either private or public
ownership.
Standards
a. The standards as the P-1 Public Use Zone apply.
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
45
Dimensional and Coverage Standards
CD-2 Tiny House Residential Comprehensive
Development Zone Standards
Dimensions
maximum density of a tiny house neighbourhood
one dwelling unit per 183
square meters
minimum individual home lot size
97 square metres
minimum size of a tiny house
29 square meters
maximum size of a tiny house
60 square metres on the
ground floor and a maximum
of 90 square metres for the
combined ground floor and
second story
maximum lot coverage of all buildings and
accessory structures
50%
Building Height and Roof Pitch
i.
All parts of the roof above 5.5 metres shall be
pitched
ii.
The height limit permitted for structures (metres) 5.5
iii.
The ridge of pitched roofs with a minimum slope of six to 12 may extend up to
7.6 metres
Building Setbacks (metres)
i.
Front lot line
1.5
ii.
Rear lot line
1.5
iii.
Exterior side lot line
1.2
iv.
Interior side lot line
1.2
Special conditions for a zero-lot line setback
Notwithstanding the provisions of Subsection 5.8.5, a principal building may be
constructed with a zero-lot line setback from an interior property line adjacent to
another tiny house lot, provided the following:
i.
A minimum distance of 3 (three) meters is maintained between buildings on
adjacent lots;
ii.
A maintenance and construction easement shall be executed between the owners
of the adjacent zero lot line lots and shall establish a minimum 2 (two) meters
width extending in all directions from all zero setback walls.
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
46
PART VI. CONDITIONS FOR SHORT TERM VACATION RENTALS
In any zone or property in which a Short-Term Vacation Rental is permitted, the following
conditions shall be satisfied:
Compliance with the Bylaw for the licensing and regulating of businesses in the Town of
Lake Cowichan;
Compliance with the parking requirements of the Schedule B Off-Street Parking Spaces;
and
Subletting of units by tenants is not permitted.
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
47
PART VII. TRANSITION
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw Number 935-2013, as amended is hereby repealed.
READ A FIRST TIME on 27th day of April 2021.
READ A SECOND TIME on the on 27th day of April 2021.
PUBLIC HEARING held on the 28th of September 2021.
READ A THIRD TIME on the 28th of September 2021.
RECONSIDERED, FINALLY PASSED and ADOPTED by the Municipal Council of the Town of Lake
Cowichan on the 28th of September 2021.
______________
_________________
Bob K. Day
Joseph A. Fernandez
Mayor
Corporate Officer
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
48
SCHEDULE 'A' ZONING MAP
Note: Maps shown here for reference only. View high resolution maps in the Town Office or in a
separate file on the Town website.
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
49
SCHEDULE 'B' PARKING SPACES
1. General Provisions
1.1. The purpose of the required parking spaces is to provide enough on-site parking to
accommodate most of the traffic generated by the range of uses which might locate
at the site over time. Opportunities for reducing vehicular parking requirements are
provided through selected 'no minimum' requirements, cash-in-lieu of parking, shared
parking for mixed use developments, and unbundling of parking spaces from the sale
or lease of apartment dwelling units.
2. Interpretation
2.1. The number of parking spaces required is calculated according to uses specified in
Table B1 'Required On-site Parking Spaces' of this schedule.
2.2. When a type of use is not specified in Table B-1 'Required On-site Vehicular Parking
Spaces', the number of spaces will be calculated based on the requirements for the
most similar class of use listed in the Table.
2.3. When the calculation of the required on-site parking or loading space results in a
fraction, one parking space shall be provided with respect to the fraction.
2.4. Where seating accommodation is the basis for a unit of measurement under this
schedule and consists of benches, pews, booths, or similar seating accommodation,
each one-half meter of width of such seating shall be deemed to be one seat.
2.5. When calculating parking spaces for single- and two-unit residential uses, a garage,
carport, and driveway may be used.
3. Reuse of Buildings
3.1. Notwithstanding the provisions in Part 5 Uptown Core Provisions, a change in use of
a building to a different category of use within Table B-1 Required Vehicular Parking
Spaces may require additional on-site parking, a Development Variance Permit, or
cash-in-lieu in accordance with Part 6, Cash-in-lieu.
4. Driveway Access to Parking Spaces
4.1. Single detached unit residential lots shall have only a single driveway access subject
to Town approval for location.
5. Uptown Core Provisions
5.1. Parking requirements for buildings in the Uptown Core as defined in Schedule A to
this Bylaw may be waived subject to Section 5 Cash-in-lieu, except where the
following shall apply:
5.1.1.
One parking space shall be provided for each 100 m2 of Office use where
the Office use exceeds 3,000 m2;
5.1.2.
Premises used for hotel and motel shall be provided with on-site parking
spaces for vehicles equal in number to not less than 50% of the number
of hotel and motel units therein; and
5.1.3.
Premises for residential accommodation, which premises shall be
provided with on-site parking spaces equal to the number required in
Table B-1 'Required Vehicular On-site Parking Spaces'.
6. Cash-In-Lieu
6.1. Subject to Town approval, any owner or occupier of lands, buildings, or structures
zoned commercial shall pay the Town a four thousand dollars ($4,000) per on-site
parking space to be waived.
6.2. Payment under Section 6. 1 shall be by cash or certified cheque and shall be made
to the Town prior to issuance of a building permit, or issuance of a business licence
for a new use of land, and prior to commencement of any new uses of land.
6.3. Payments collected under Section 6.1 shall be paid into a reserve fund established in
accordance with the Local Government Act.
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
50
6.4. The allowed reduction of parking stalls without requiring a Development Variance
Permit shall be to a maximum of 25% of the required on-site parking.
6.5. The Town Council may waive cash-in-lieu requirements for civic uses, affordable
housing, senior citizens housing, supportive housing, and community care facilities.
7. PARKING SUPPLY RATES
General by Use
7.1.1. Required vehicular On-site parking spaces are identified and organized by
use categories in Table B-1 'Required On-site Parking Spaces'.
TABLE B-1 Required On-site Parking Spaces
Use
Required Spaces
Residential
Bed & breakfast accessory to single unit
dwelling
1 per sleeping unit in addition to principal
dwelling requirement
Dwelling units; apartment, including
units
in
buildings
also
used
for
commercial use
i.
Townhouse
-
0.75 per bachelor unit
-
1 per 1-bedroom unit
-
1.0 per 2-bedroom unit
-
1 guest parking space per 10 units
-
2 spaces per unit with the
requirement for tandem or rear
parking;
double
front
garage
prohibited.
Single dwelling unit, including mobile &
modular home
2 per unit
Dwelling unit, duplex
2 per unit
Dwelling unit, secondary suite
1 per unit,
tandem parking for a duplex in the event a
secondary suite is present for lots that are not on a corner,
or not greater than 780 square metres.
Lodging and boarding houses
1 per unit, including manager unit
Commercial
Boat and marine storage
No minimum
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
51
TABLE B-1 Required On-site Parking Spaces
Use
Required Spaces
iii.
Business and professional
services, including call
centres
2 per 100 m2 of GFA
iv.
Commercial,
retail,
including liquor sales and
repair
services,
but
excluding grocery store
2 per 100 m 2of GFA
v.
Commercial, low intensity 1.4 per 100 m2of GFA
vi.
Childcare facility
2 per 100 m2 of GFA
vii.
Grocery store, including
convenience store
5 per 100 m2 of GFA, or a minimum of 4
spaces
viii.
Hotel
and
tourist
accommodation
1 per sleeping unit
ix.
Personal
service
establishment
Beauty salon/hair care: 1space per
service seat
All other uses: 2.7 space per 100 m2 of
GFA
x.
Restaurant
2 per 10 seats
xi.
Service station
Greater of 1 per 100 m2 of GFA or 2 per
service bay
xii.
Shopping
centre,
excluding grocery store
2 per 100 m2
Institutional
Campground, municipal
No minimum
Civic use
No minimum
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
52
TABLE B-1 Required On-site Parking Spaces
Use
Required Spaces
xiii.
Columbarium
No minimum
xiv.
Hospital
No minimum; based on site needs
assessment
xv.
Institutional office space
2 per 100 m2 GFA
xvi.
Medical and dental office
or clinic
2.7 per 100 m2 GFA
xvii.
Public assembly use or
area, excluding worship
centres
1 per 4 seats
xviii.
School;
kindergarten,
elementary and junior
secondary
No minimum requirements, based on
School District need assessment
xix.
School; senior secondary
No minimum requirements, based on
School District need assessment
xx.
Senior citizen housing
0.35 spaces per unit
xxi.
Social organization
3 per 100m2 of GFA
xxii.
Supportive housing and
community care facility
1.25 spaces per 100 m2 GFA
xxiii.
Worship centre
1 per 10 seats
xxiv.
Recreation
xxv.
Marina,
exclusive
of
restaurant
and
retail
space
1per boat slip;
xxvi.
Park and playground
No minimum
xxvii.
Recreation
facility,
private
No minimum
xxviii.
Recreational
facility,
public (ice rink, pool)
1.6 per 100 m2 of rink surface plus 20
spaces per 100 m2 of pool surface
Industrial
Aggregate processing
No minimum
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
53
TABLE B-1 Required On-site Parking Spaces
Use
Required Spaces
xxix.
Automotive repair and
service shops
Greater of 1 per 100 m2 of gross floor
area or 2 per service bay
xxx.
Computer
technology
related enterprises and
electronics research and
development
2 per 100 m2of GFA
xxxi.
Forest product processing
and
manufacturing
including sawmill and log
sorting, excluding pulp
and paper production
1 for every 100 m2 of GFA devoted to
processing or manufacturing
xxxii.
Light manufacturing
1 for every 100 m2of GFA devoted to
light manufacturing
xxxiii.
Recycling depot
1 per recycle container
xxxiv.
Warehouse, mini storage,
with individual uses
1 per 100 storage cubicles plus 2 spaces
for caretaker residence
xxxv.
Warehouse
per 100 m2 GFA
Specialty Parking
Barrier Free Parking
(a)
Barrier Free parking for cars, vans, and buses shall be provided in accordance
with Table B-2 'Required On-site Designated Barrier Free Parking Spaces'.
(b)
The minimum numbers of required spaces are cumulative within their
respective columns in Table B-2 'Required On-site Designated Barrier Free
Parking Spaces'.
(c)
Barrier free parking design standards are set forth in Section 7 'Design'.
Table B-2 Required On-site Designated Barrier Free Parking Spaces
Car Spaces
Van Spaces and Bus Lay-bys
All Uses Except Medical Office,
Seniors' Housing, and
Community Care Facilities
Medical Office,
Seniors' Housing,
Community Care
Facilities
Seniors' Housing
and Community
Care Facilities
Medical Office
1 for 15-50 spaces
1 for 15-45 spaces
1 bus lay-by or
parking space for
60 or more car
spaces
1 van space for 30
or more car spaces
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
54
2 for 51 to 100 spaces
Above 45, 1 for
every additional
30 spaces
1 bus lay-by for 45
or more car spaces
3 spaces plus 1 for every 50
required spaces in excess of 101
Bicycle Parking
(a)
All Multi-unit Residential, Office, Retail, Restaurant, Medical and Dental
Office or Clinic, and Civic Facilities uses shall provide bicycle parking in
accordance with Table B-3 'Required On-site Bicycle Parking'.
Table B-3 Required On-site Bicycle Parking
Use
Class 1 Bicycle Facility
(Long Term)
Class 2 Bicycle Facility
(Short Term)
Multi-unit Residential
1 space per unit
One 6 space rack at entrance
Office
1 space per 400 m2 GFA
1 space per 400 m2 GFA
Retail and Restaurant
1 per 250 m2 GFA: Minimum 4
spaces
Medical and dental office or
clinic
1 per 500 m2 GFA
1 per 500 m2 GFA
Civic facilities such as Town
Hall, Library, Community
Centre
One space per 400m2 GFA of
office space
Minimum one 6-space rack at
entrance
Visitor Parking
Visitor parking shall be provided for all multi-residential, townhouse, seniors'
housing, and affordable housing buildings, at a rate of a minimum one (1) space
per 10 dwelling units.
A minimum of one (1) space shall be provided for any building containing between
4 and 9 dwelling units.
Visitor parking shall be in addition to parking stalls required in accordance with Table
B-1 'Required Parking Spaces' and any supply rate adjustments made in accordance
with Section 6.6 'Supply Rate Adjustments'.
In a mixed residential and commercial development, required visitor parking spaces
may be assigned to commercial use parking spaces, but shall not account for more
than 15% of the space required for the commercial use component.
Commercial Vehicle Loading
Commercial, institutional, and industrial uses shall provide commercial vehicle
loading spaces in accordance with Table B-4 'Required On-site Commercial Vehicle
Loading'.
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
55
Table B-4 Required On-site Commercial Vehicle Loading
Use of Building
Number of Loading Spaces
Less than 100 m2 floor space
0
100 m2 to 2000 m2 floor space
1
2000 to 4000 m2 in floor space
2
Greater than 4000m2 in floor space
3
Mobility Scooter Parking
Mobility scooter parking shall be provided in seniors' housing in accordance with the
following:
(a)
A minimum of one (1) parking space per 5 units;
(b)
Space may be provided using any one or a combination of the following
options:
i.
Within a dwelling unit;
ii.
Within an enclosed storage unit with space for one or more scooters;
or
iii.
Within a sheltered parking area in which each space has the
minimum dimensions of 1.2 metres width and 1.6 metres length.
(c)
Any space not enclosed shall be level, protected from the elements by a
roof, be near a building entry, and have adequate charging facilities.
Supply Rate Adjustments
Mixed-use Development
(a)
Where there are two or more separate principal uses on a site, the required
parking and loading for the site shall be the sum of the required parking and
loading for each use, except as otherwise specified below:
i.
The Chief Administrative Officer may approve a reduction of up to
20% of the total required parking and loading subject to a parking
study undertaken by the development applicant that demonstrates
the extent of overlap and lack of overlap for hours of operation
between proposed uses in a mixed-use development.
Transportation Demand Management
(a)
Unbundling of Parking Space from Dwelling Unit
i.
Residential apartment buildings, with either rental or condominium
ownership tenure, may offer for sale or rent separate parking spaces
from the rental or ownership of a dwelling unit.
ii.
New residential apartment buildings that offer separate sale or lease
of parking spaces may receive a 20% reduction in the minimum
number of required On-site parking, subject to the provision of
evidence satisfactory to the Town that all renters and buyers have
the option to separately purchase or rent a parking space.
8. Design
8.1
Access to Parking Facility
8.1.1 The point of access to a parking facility shall be at a location approved by the
Town in accordance with traffic safety standards.
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
56
8.2
Location of Automobile Parking
8.2.1
Parking lots shall be located at the rear or side of buildings relative to the
street.
8.2.2
If located to the side, in no case shall the linear width of the parking lot
adjacent to the street exceed 50 per cent of the lot frontage.
8.3
Location and design of Bicycle Parking
8.3.1
Class I Bicycle Parking (Long-Term)
a. Long-term bicycle parking shall be provided in a secure bicycle storage
area that is accessible only to residents or employees of the building.
b. A minimum of 50 percent of the long-term bicycle parking spaces in a
bicycle storage facility shall allow for a bicycle to be parked horizontally
on the floor.
c. Long-term bicycle parking shall be located at building grade or within
one story of building grade in an area that provides convenient access
to main entrances or well-used areas.
8.3.2
Class II Bicycle Parking (Short-Term)
a. Class II bicycle parking (Short-Term) shall be in a well-lit, and
convenient location no further than 15 metres distant of the main
building entrance that is clearly visible and accessible by visitors.
b. Each Class II bicycle parking (Short Term) parking space shall be
provided in the form of racks that are permanently anchored to the
ground or a permanent structure.
8.4
Access to Parking Stalls and Pedestrian Circulation
8.4.1
Any area of a lot used for on-site parking shall always be constructed to
permit unobstructed access to and egress from each space, clear of any
access driveways, aisles, ramps, columns, signs, or other similar
obstructions.
8.5
Size of Parking Stalls and Aisle Widths
8.5.1
Parking stalls shall conform to the requirements as shown in Table B-5 and
Table B-6 and Figure 1 'Parking Lot Stall, Aisle and Parking Bay
Dimensions'.
8.5.2
Notwithstanding the dimensions in Table B-5, small car stalls and access
aisles shall have the same dimensions as those of Table B-5 Parking Lot
Stall, Aisle, and Parking Bay Dimensions, except the stall length may be
4.6 metres.
8.5.3
A maximum of 30% of parking stalls may be small car stalls.
Table B-5 Parking Lot Stall, Aisle, and Parking Bay Dimensions
Dimensions
(in metres)
Parking Angle
0o (Parallel)
90o
60o
45o
Stall width (C-1)
2.8
2.6
2.6
2.6
Stall length(C-2)
6.0
5.5
5.5
5.5
Parking bay depth
n\a
5.5 (D-3)
6.3 (D2)
5.9 (D-1)
Aisle width--one way
4.0
6.7 (A-1)
5.2 (A-2)
4.0 (A-1)
Aisle width--two way
6.1
7.6 (B-3)
6.1 (B-2)
6.1 (B-1)
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
57
Figure 1 Parking Lot Stall, Aisle and Parking Bay Dimensions
8.6
Barrier Free Parking
8.6.1
The design and location of barrier free parking stalls shall be in accordance
with the following standards:
a. Stall dimensions for cars, vans and lay-bys shall be in accordance with
Table B-6 Barrier Free Stall Dimensional Standards;
b. Where two barrier free car stalls are provided side-by-side, the additional
width (1.1 metre) may be shared between the two spaces (refer to Figure
2);
c. Stalls and lay-bys for custom transit vehicles such as Handy Dart shall be
located as close as possible to a building entrance that accommodates
wheelchair access; and
d. All other design standards are subject to the BC Building Code.
A3
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
58
Table B-6 Barrier Free Stall Dimensional Standards
All Dimensions Expressed
in Metres and for 90O
Parking, Except for Lay-by
Stall Width Parallel
to Aisle (SW)
(in metres)
Stall Depth
Perpendicular to Aisle
(PD)
(in metres)
Height Clearance
(in metres)
Car stall
3.7
5.5
n/a
Car--adjacent stalls
2.6 m each plus
shared
1.1 m walkway
5.5
n/a
Van stall
4.8
7.6
2.3
Bus lay-by
3
8
2.5
Figure 2 Barrier Free Parking with Shared Access Space
8.7
Landscaping and Screening
8.7.1
For all uses other than industrial uses, no less than 15% of a surface parking
area shall be provided as perimeter and/ or interior landscaped areas
comprising a landscape buffer, landscape median, or landscaped islands.
8.7.2
Parking lots adjacent Landscaping to a highway shall be screened with either:
a. A landscaping buffer (see Figure 3) and landscaping screen (see Figure
4) comprising evergreen plantings of a minimum 1 (one) meter in width,
a minimum height of 0.75 metres, and a maximum height of 1.5 metres;
or
b. A decorative screen (see Figure 4) comprising stone, brick, metal and/or
wood of a minimum height of 0.75 metres.
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
59
Figure 3 Landscaping Buffer with Evergreen Plantings--Plan View
Figure 4 Landscaping Screen with Evergreen Plantings -Perspective View
Figure 5 Decorative Screen Plan View
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
60
Figure 6 Decorative Screen Perspective View
8.7.3
Parking lots adjacent to a residential land use shall be screened with:
a.
A landscaping buffer of a minimum 2 (two) metres in width;
b. Tree plantings at the rate of one per 6 lineal metres; and
c.
A wood privacy fence of a minimum height of 1.5 metres and a maximum
height of 2 (two) metres.
8.7.4
A parking lot shall have planting islands (see Figure 7) in accordance with the
following:
a.
a minimum width of 3 (three) metres between every 10 stalls to avoid
long rows of parked cars; and
b. a minimum of one shade tree accompanied with low shrubs and/or
ground cover.
Figure 7 Planting Islands Illustration
Figure 8 Island, Interior, and Perimeter Landscaping Plan View Illustration
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
61
8.7.5
Within the interior of the parking lot, circulation and signage design shall:
a.
delineate vehicular and pedestrian circulation patterns using different
colour and texture paving materials;
b. provide clear and legible signs; and
c.
provide raised areas, and other appropriate techniques to direct the flow
of both vehicular and pedestrian traffic within the lot.
8.7.6
Non-residential or mixed-use sites with fifty (50) or more parking spaces shall
provide separated pedestrian walkways to enable pedestrian access between
the parking area and building entrances.
8.8
Surfacing, Painting, Curbs, Lighting
8.8.1
All on-site parking areas shall be surfaced in with asphalt, concrete pavers,
or permeable material that provides a surface that is durable and dust-free
and shall be designed to properly drain all surface water.
8.8.2
Notwithstanding provision 7.8.1, a parking lot may be surfaced with gravel,
grasscrete, or similar permeable surface as part of a rainwater management
plan prepared in accordance with standards set forth in the Subdivision,
Works & Services Bylaw.
8.8.3
All parking spaces, maneuvering aisles, entrances and exits shall be clearly
marked by painted lines or other appropriate means and such markings shall
be maintained to ensure legibility.
8.8.4
The gradient of an on-site parking area shall not exceed 8% grade in parking
space areas and shall not exceed 15% grade on any internal ramp area.
8.8.5
A surface parking space that abuts a pedestrian walkway or landscaped area
without barrier curb shall have a wheel stop not less than 0.9 metres from
the end of the parking space, except when the parking space is configured
parallel to the curb, shares a common front boundary with another parking
space, or is associated with a single dwelling unit or duplex.
8.8.6
On-site parking areas consisting of four or more spaces shall include lighting
that is arranged and shielded so that no direct light is oriented upward or
shines beyond the boundaries of the site.
8.9
Drive-Through Facilities
8.9.1
The number of inbound queuing spaces required for vehicles approaching a
drive-up service area is 11.
8.9.2
The number of outbound queuing spaces on the exit side of each service
position is 2 (two).
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
62
SCHEDULE 'C' DENSITY BONUS CALCULATIONS AND AMENITY CONTRIBUTIONS
1. Density bonus calculations for specific properties are set forth in this Schedule in
accordance with the Town of Lake Cowichan's Official Community Plan (2019)
density bonus policies in Subsection 5.2.1.4.
2. Density Bonus Calculation Table
Parcel
Zone
district--
pre-
developmen
t application
Estimated
unit yield
prior to
developmen
t application
New or
amended
Zone
district (if
applicable
)
Additional
unit yield
permitted
with
amended
zoning or
developmen
t approval
Voluntary
affordable
housing
contribution
Voluntary
amenity
contribution
Remainder Lot 1
District Lot 13
Cowichan Lake
District Plan VIP
64669, Except
Part in Plans
VIP66922,
VIP68015,
VIP72607,
VIP78144,
VIP88404, and
VIP88405
R-1-A Single
Detached
and Duplex
Residential
Zone
55
R-5 Single
Detached
and
Duplex
Residential
Zone
Up to 28
secondary
suites
Each
secondary
suite shall be
rented at a
rate of 15%
below market
and shall be
subject to a
housing
agreement
attached to
property title.
Consolidation of
Lot 1, Plan
27794 and
Remainder of
Lot C, Plan
27479, both
within District
Lot 16,
Cowichan Lake
District, and
that part of
Remainder of
Parcel K (DD
1221071),
Section 6,
Renfrew District
R-2 Urban
Residential
17
R-5 Single
Detached
and
Duplex
Urban
Residential
Zone
15 units,
representing
an 89%
increase in
density due
to rezoning
20% of
additional
density
achieved
(e.g., 3 units
based on an
additional 15
units); any
fraction in the
calculation
shall be
rounded up to
the next
whole
number. Units
are to be
available on
an affordable
basis with
appropriate
covenants
registered on
affected lots
for 10 years.
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
63
List of Amendments
Consolidated for Convenience Only
This Bylaw has been consolidated for convenience only. Where applicable, capitalization, numerical
order, and numbering have been altered for consistency. Copies of the original Bylaw and amendments
may be viewed at the Town of Lake Cowichan Municipal Hall located at 39 South Shore Road, Lake
Cowichan, BC.
Bylaw
No.
Amendment
No.
Adopted
Text (T) or Map (M)
Amendment or
Designation Change
(Z)
Amendment Designation
1079
1
22-11-22
M
Rezone 3 parcels on Renfrew Avenue
(Lakewood Manor) from Multi-unit R-7 and
Urban Core R-3 to Public Use P-1
1080
2
22-11-22
M
Rezone Lot 18, Plan 8069 (163 Neva Road)
from Urban Core R-3 to Small House R-6.
1087
3
23-03-28
T
Replacement of Section 5.5.3 with Site
Specific Principal and Accessory Uses
1099
4
24-03-26
T
Under Section 3.2 Definitions - E-cigarette.
1099
5
24-03-26
T
Under Section 3.2 Definitions - Vapour
Product.
1099
6
24-03-26
T
Addition under Subsection 5.3.3 Site Specific
Permitted Principal and Accessory Uses with
addition under C-1-A for Adult Vape Shop on
Lot 1, Plan VIP27529 only.
1104
7
24-06-25
T
Under Section 3.2 Definitions - Accessory
Dwelling Unit.
1104
8
24-06-25
T
Under Section 3.2 Definitions - Accessory
Dwelling - Coach House.
1104
9
24-06-25
T
Under 3.2 Definitions - rename Secondary
Suite as Accessory Dwelling - Secondary
Suite.
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
64
Bylaw
No.
Amendment
No.
Adopted
Text (T) or Map (M)
Amendment or
Designation Change
(Z)
Amendment Designation
1104
10
24-06-25
T
Under Section 3.2 Definitions - Tandem
Parking.
1104
11
24-06-25
T
Replace Article 5.1.3.a. in its entirety with new
table.
1104
12
24-06-25
T
Addition of Article 5.1.3.b. Accessory Use
Limitations and Special Considerations.
1104
13
24-06-25
T
Amendment to Subsection 5.1.6, Table Low and
Medium Density Residential Zone District Standards
- Article d. Clause iii. Interior Side Lot from 2.0 to
1.5 for R-2 and R-3 Zones.
1104
14
24-06-25
T
Amendment to Subsection 5.1.6, Table Low and
Medium Density Residential Zone District Standards
- Article b. Clause i. Maximum Height amended to
11.0 metres for R-1, R-2, R-3, R-5 Zones.
1104
15
24-06-25
T
Amendment to Subsection 5.1.6, Table Low and
Medium Density Residential Zone District Standards
- Article c. Maximum Lot Coverage amended by
including 50% coverage for R-6 Small House zone
when a secondary suite is present. The 60%
coverage for principal dwelling remains unchanged.
1104
16
24-06-25
T
Replacement of Section 5.1.9 d. Garden Suite
Standards.
p
1104
17
24-06-25
T
Addition of Section 5.1.10 Coach House
Standards.
1104
18
24-06-25
T
Amend Schedule B Parking Spaces, Table B-1
Required On-site Parking Spaces, Article e. to
require tandem parking for duplex.
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
65
Bylaw
No.
Amendment
No.
Adopted
Text (T) or Map
(M) Amendment
or Designation
Change (Z)
Amendment Designation
1105
19
24-06-25
T
Amendment with the addition under C-1 General
Commercial Zone for use of a school on the
parcel with a street address of 38 King George
Street North, and legally described as Lot 1, Plan
EPP65810, District Lot 12, Cowichan Lake Land
District (PID: 029-995-680).
1106
20
24-10-22
T
Subsection 5.2.3 Permitted Accessory Units with
addition of c. and d. articles.
1106
21
24-10-22
T
Amend Subsection 5.2.5 Dimensional and
Density Standards by Type of structure and
location, Standards, Article b. maximum lot
coverage (%) for a two-unit residential; lodging
and boarding house; and accessory buildings
greater than 10m2 is 50%
1106
22
24-10-22
T
Addition under Section 3.2 Definitions - Rental
Only.
1106
23
24-10-22
T
Addition to Section 5.1.4.b i. Principal Uses (a).
1106
24
24-10-22
T
Addition to Section 5.1.4.c.i. Principal Uses (b)
and (c).
1106
25
24-10-22
T
Addition to Section 5.1.4.d. i. Principal Uses (a)
and (b).
1106
26
24-10-22
T
Addition to Section 5.1.5.b. i. Designation R to
permit "rental only" dwellings.
1106
27
24-10-22
T
Addition to Section 5.1.5.c. i. Designation R to
permit "rental only" dwellings.
1106
28
24-10-22
T
Addition to Section 5.1.5.d. i. Designation R to
permit "rental only" townhouse dwellings.
1106
29
24-10-22
T
Subsection 5.2.4 Site Specific Permitted Principal
and Accessory Uses i through to xii with respect
to Rental Only Tenures
Town of Lake Cowichan Zoning Bylaw - Consolidated as of 24-11-26
No. 1055-2021
66
Bylaw
No.
Amendment
No.
Adopted
Text (T) or Map (M)
Amendment
or
Designation
Change (Z)
Amendment Designation
1106
30
24-10-22
T
Subsection 5.3.3 Site Specific Permitted Principal
and Accessory Uses section a. C-1 Commercial
with addition of articles of iii., iv., v., vi, and vii.
1106
31
24-10-22
T
Addition of new Section 5.9 CD-3 Public Use and
Rental Housing Comprehensive Development
Zone.
1106
32
24-10-22
M
Rezone of 7 parcels within the Town of Lake
Cowichan to reflect Zone District Amendments
for Rental Only use.
1110
33
24-11-26
T
Amending Subsection 5.1.2, for Permitted Principal
Uses.
1110
34
24-11-26
T
Amending Subsection 5.1.6, Low and Medium Density
Residential Zone Districts Standards with the addition
of rows and revisions.
1110
35
24-11-26
T
Amending
Subsection
5.2.5
Table
Multi-unit
Residential Zone Dimensional and Density Standards
1110
36
24-11-26
T
Amendments to Schedule "B" Parking Spaces, Table
B-1 Required On-site Parking Spaces for 2-bedroom
unit and townhouse requirements
1124
37
26-02-24
T
Remove 5.1.6 Standards Table and replace with new
to amend setback standards.