Process for Reviewing a Discretionary Use Application
When a Discretionary Use application is received by the Planning and Development Department, it is circulated to internal Civic Departments to identify conformance or conflict with the Official Community Plan, the Zoning Bylaw, and any other applicable policies and regulations. Departments that review the application include Planning and Development, Transportation & Construction, Environment & Utilities, Fire & Protective Services, and Building Standards.
Once the application has been reviewed by internal Civic Departments, public consultation on the application is undertaken. Registered property owners typically within 150 metres of the subject site and the Ward Councillor are notified of the proposed Discretionary Use application as per the City’s Public Notice Policy. When considered necessary, a public information meeting may be held to provide information to area residents on the Discretionary Use application, answer questions, and receive feedback.
Process for Approving a Discretionary Use Application
Delegated to City Administration - Applications delegated to City Administration do not require a decision from City Council at a Public Hearing. Following the review process noted above, City Administration will consider the information collected from the internal review and public consultation processes and the application may then be approved, approved with conditions, or denied.
Delegated to City Council - Applications delegated to City Council require a decision during a Public Hearing. Following the review process noted above, City Administration will prepare a report for City Council's consideration containing information collected from the internal review and public consultation. Notice of the Public Hearing will be mailed to property owners within approximately 150m of the subject site and will contain information on the Public Hearing including the date, time, and instructions on how to submit a letter or request to speak at the Public Hearing. During the Public Hearing, City Council will consider the report and may either approve, approve with conditions, or deny the application.
Discretionary Use applications for a Residential Care Home - type II in the R1A District are delegated to City Administration for consideration.