Zoning Bylaw

The Zoning Bylaw identifies parcels of land in Prince Rupert as belonging to certain ‘zones’ that regulate the use and density of developments, and the siting, size, and dimensions of buildings and structures allowed in a specified area. Zoning also establishes and promotes minimum standards for health, safety, convenience, and public welfare. Zoning can prevent overcrowding of land and ensure appropriate building forms.

Each property belongs in a Zone, which sets out:

  • The use of land, buildings, and other structures;
  • The density of the use of land, buildings and other structures;
  • The siting, size, and dimensions of buildings and other structures;
  • The siting, size, and dimensions of the uses that are permitted;
  • The location of uses on the land and within buildings and other structures; and,
  • Off-street parking and loading requirements.

For additional resources relating to the Zoning Bylaw, see below:

*Please note that we do our best to update all online copies of the Zoning Bylaw and associated application forms as they are amended, however we cannot always guarantee that the above version of the documents listed are the latest. The most recent version will be available at the front desk at City Hall.

Does your development not fit the current zoning?

A Zoning Amendment, or ‘rezoning’ is the process of changing the zone, or specifics of the existing zone, of a property or properties

The Zoning Bylaw can also be varied for a specific development if the requested change does not relate to density or use. For more information on how to apply to vary the Zoning Bylaw, see below for our informational guide on how to apply for a Development Variance Permit.

Interested in applying for a zoning amendment or development variance permit? Read through the information below and reach out to Development Services Department for a pre-application meeting.

For more information on how to apply for an OCP or Zoning Amendment, check out our brochure on OCP and Zoning Amendment Application Procedures:

For more information on how to apply to vary the Zoning Bylaw, see below for our informational guide on how to apply for a Variance Permit. 

Application Guide for Development Variance Permit Applications (PDF)

If a rezoning, OCP amendment and/or Development Variance Permit is successful, property owners must then apply for the necessary Development and/or Building Permits.