Development Permits
A Development Permit (DP) is a planning tool that local governments use to ensure the proposed development is consistent with community objectives.
The District has recently adopted a new Official Community Plan that includes five Development Permit Areas (DPAs). Information on these Development Permit Areas is outlined in Section 5.10 of the new District of North Saanich Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1587 (2025).
Development and site alteration located in these five Development Permit Areas may be subject to the issuance of a Development Permit. In some instances, properties may be within more than one DPA and therefore subject to the guidelines of all applicable Development Permit Areas.
We want to ensure your application is clear and complete, therefore prior to submission we encourage you to speak with one of our planners regarding your proposal. Applicants are also encouraged to review the Development Permit Application Guide.
Application Process
There are two parts to your permit application process:
Part 1 – The following forms are a requirement for a DP application.
- Development Permit Application Form
- New Housing Units Reporting Form – REZ & DP
- Owner’s Authorization Form
- Zoning Analysis Table
- Site Disclosure Statement (after clicking the link, scroll down to find the correct form)
- A site plan is also required to accompany your application
- Copy of Title certificate including any covenants
- R.P Biologist Report (DPA 1, 2, 3)
- Tree Survey, Arborist report that includes a Tree Management Plan and Replacement Plan
- Project Description and Rationale
- Geotechnical Engineering Report (DPA 4)
- Landscape Plan and Cost Estimate
Part 2 – Please complete the applicable Development Permit Area Guideline Review Table(s) for the relevant Development Permit Area(s), providing a response that explains how the proposal satisfies each applicable guideline.
See fillable forms below (applicable guidelines are available for review in Section 5.10 of the District of North Saanich Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1587).
Development Permit Area Guideline Review Table(s)
- Development Permit Area No. 1 (Marine Uplands & Foreshore)
- Development Permit Area No. 2 (Creeks, Wetlands, Riparian Areas & Significant Water Resources)
- Development Permit Area No. 3 (Sensitive Ecosystems)
- Development Permit Area No. 4 (Steep Slopes)
- Development Permit Area No. 5 (Commercial, Industrial and Multi-Family)
Fees and Processing
Please note that the District accepts cash, cheque, or Interac, but does not accept credit cards.
The time required to process a DP depends on the complexity of the proposal. Incomplete applications will cause delays.
For more information, please contact the Planning and Community Services department.
