Accessory Dwelling Units in Agricultural and Rural Areas

In response to changes in provincial legislation, the opportunity to consider more flexible ‘accessory’ housing options in the Agricultural Land Reserve and Rural lands was presented to Council for the first time in 2021. The District has been exploring options on this topic since.  At the November 4, 2024, Council meeting, Council gave first and second reading to bylaws that would enable the following housing on agricultural and rural zoned lands:

• Lots 1ha (2.47 acres) or larger: Up to three dwelling units in the form of a principal dwelling, secondary suite, and detached accessory dwelling.
• Lots less than 1ha: A principal dwelling with secondary suite or a detached accessory dwelling (a 1 ha lot size threshold aligns with the subdivision servicing standards of Island Health).

This would align with provincial legislation and Agricultural Land Commission regulations. 

What’s next? A Public Hearing will be scheduled where the public is able to come make representation to Council prior to consideration of the third reading and final adoption of the bylaws. 

What’s an ‘accessory’ dwelling? An accessory dwelling unit is also known as granny suite, secondary suite, cottage or carriage house. It is a smaller house or suite located on the same lot as a single-family dwelling.