News

Town of Comox Seeks Feedback on Draft OCP and Updated Development Permit Area Guidelines

15 September 2025

The Town of Comox Official Community Plan (OCP) update process commenced in Fall 2024 and is scheduled for completion by the end of 2025. The project is in its final stages, and the public is invited to provide comments.

An OCP is an “anchor” document that outlines a municipality's long-term vision for the community and directs future development. The 2025 OCP update aims to better align with the community's vision for Comox over the next 20 years, with a focus on addressing housing needs.

Council provided direction on the main OCP document on July 16, 2025. The land use map and OCP have been posted on the project webpage for review throughout August and September.

At the September 10, 2025, Strategic Planning Council Meeting, Town Council supported the Draft Development Permit Area (DPA) Guidelines in principle, and they are now available for review and comment until September 26, 2025. Any revisions will be made prior to Council’s consideration of OCP Bylaw readings in October 2025.

The DPAs are a component of the OCP. They help ensure growth and development in Comox that respects the community’s character, protects sensitive natural areas, and considers long-term sustainability. Among other purposes, municipalities may establish DPAs under the Local Government Act, to:

  • protect the natural environment
  • protect development from hazardous condition risks
  • shape the form and character of development
  • promote energy and water conservation, and
  • reduce greenhouse gas emissions

“Development Permit Areas are one of the key tools we use to shape the future of Comox,” said Comox Mayor Nicole Minions. “By updating our guidelines, we can ensure that development enhances our community while protecting the natural assets that make Comox such a special place to live.”

The draft Development Permit Areas are available for review on engagecomoxvalley.ca/comoxocp. Feedback can be provided by emailing planning@comox.ca by September 26, 2025, 4:30 p.m.

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Media Contacts:
Randy Houle, Director of Development Services
planning@comox.ca
250-339-2202