RDCK Updates Seven OCPs to Align with New Housing Laws
RDCK is modernizing seven official community plans (OCPs) to reflect recent zoning updates and provincial housing legislation. The changes focus on residential terminology, accessory dwelling units, and removing outdated regulatory details. Residents can review and comment on the proposals online.
By Felo News Desk · Published
The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) has announced a comprehensive update to seven of its official community plans (OCPs) and associated land‑use bylaws. These plans cover electoral areas A, B, C, F, G, J and K, and the revision aims to keep the district’s planning documents in sync with recent zoning changes and provincial housing legislation.
Why the Updates Are Needed
Over the past several years, RDCK’s OCPs have evolved in response to shifting demographics, market pressures, and policy shifts. However, the documents have not always reflected the latest zoning bylaws adopted in 2024 and 2026. According to RDCK planner Rishab Gaba, the primary goal of the update is to ensure that the OCP policies remain consistent with the district’s residential zoning framework.
These zoning changes were enacted to comply with Bill 44: Housing Statutes (Residential Development) Amendment Act, 2023. Bill 44 requires local governments to allow small‑scale multi‑unit housing in certain residential zones, a move intended to increase housing supply and affordability across British Columbia.
Scope of the Proposed Changes
The revisions are targeted rather than a full rewrite. Gaba emphasized that the updates will modernize residential terminology, support accessory dwelling units (ADUs) where appropriate, and remove regulatory details—such as minimum lot size and density—that are better addressed through zoning bylaws. The plan does not propose new zoning changes; instead, it aligns the OCPs with the existing zoning framework.
Key elements of the update include:
- Revised definitions and language to reflect contemporary housing concepts.
- Explicit support for ADUs in residential policies, encouraging flexible housing options.
- Removal of redundant or outdated regulatory details that could create confusion.
- Alignment with the 2024 and 2026 zoning bylaws to ensure policy consistency.
Public Participation Process
RDCK is inviting residents, developers, and other stakeholders to review the proposed changes and provide feedback. The public consultation period is open through a dedicated online portal. Interested parties can access the full set of proposed amendments and submit comments via the following link: RDCK OCP Updates 2026.
Public input is a critical component of the planning process, ensuring that the district’s policies reflect the needs and preferences of its diverse communities. The feedback gathered during this period will inform the final version of the OCPs before they are formally adopted.
What Happens Next?
After the consultation period closes, RDCK will review all submissions and make any necessary adjustments to the proposals. The district will then seek council approval for the updated OCPs. Once adopted, the revised plans will guide future development decisions, ensuring that residential growth aligns with provincial housing goals and local community values.
While the updates do not introduce new zoning categories, they represent a significant step toward harmonizing planning documents with the latest regulatory framework. The changes are expected to streamline the development approval process and promote a more flexible, inclusive approach to housing in the Central Kootenay region.
Key facts
- RDCK is updating seven OCPs to match 2024–2026 zoning changes and Bill 44.
- Revisions modernize language, support accessory dwelling units, and remove outdated details.
- Public feedback is sought through an online portal before council approval.
- The updates aim to streamline development approvals and promote housing diversity.
- Final adoption will follow the consultation period and council review.
Why it matters
Aligning OCPs with updated zoning and provincial housing mandates ensures that RDCK’s planning framework supports sustainable, affordable housing growth while reflecting community values. Public participation guarantees that local voices shape the district’s future development direction.
Frequently asked questions
What is an official community plan (OCP)?
An OCP is a long‑term planning document that sets out land‑use policies for a specific area, guiding future development and ensuring that growth aligns with community goals.
How does Bill 44 affect local housing?
Bill 44 requires municipalities to allow small‑scale multi‑unit housing in certain residential zones, thereby increasing housing supply and affordability.
Where can I view the proposed changes?
The full proposals are available on the RDCK engagement portal at https://engage.rdck.ca/projects/official-community-plan-updates-2026.
When is the consultation period ending?
The exact deadline is posted on the engagement portal; stakeholders are encouraged to submit comments promptly.
Will these updates affect existing development approvals?
The changes are designed to align with current zoning bylaws and should not retroactively alter approved projects.
Sources
- [1] castanet.net — originally reported as “Targeted updates to align OCP policies in RDCK, adopted zoning changes”
