Developing in North Cowichan?
In the Municipality of North Cowichan, properties within Development Permit Area 4 (DPA 4: Hazard Lands) may be subject to specific wildfire hazard requirements before development or land alteration can proceed. This includes properties in communities such as Bell McKinnon, Chemainus, Crofton, Maple Bay and South End.
These requirements are intended to reduce the risk of wildfire ignition and structure loss by incorporating FireSmart principles into the design, construction and ongoing maintenance of development. Depending on the proposed development, requirements may include ignition-resistant building materials, vegetation management and establishing appropriate Home Ignition Zones.
For most developments, North Cowichan requires a site-specific Wildfire Hazard Assessment prepared by a Registered Professional Forester with experience in wildfire hazard mitigation and fuel prescription development. The assessment evaluates existing wildfire hazards and fuel conditions and identifies measures to reduce wildfire risk. It may also establish requirements for vegetation management, construction and ongoing property maintenance before a building permit is issued.
What may not need a Wildfire Hazard Assessment?
The following developments are exempted by the municipality:
- An accessory building, such as a gazebo or tool or garden shed having a total floor area not exceeding 10 m2.
- An addition of 50 m2 or less on an existing building, unless more than 50% of the existing roof will be replaced.
- A residential development on a lot for which an Interface Wildfire Assessment was prepared and conditions have accordingly been met through the subdivision process.
- Emergency procedures necessary to prevent, control or reduce flooding, erosion or other immediate threats to life and property.