CLEARWATER OFFICIAL COMMUNITY PLAN

Transcription

1 CLEARWATER OFFICIAL COMMUNITY PLAN Revised: April 14, 2011 Please check with the TNRD ( ) for current information on this Bylaw

2 AMENDMENTS TO THE TEXT OF CLEARWATER OFFICIAL COMMUNITY PLAN ADOPTION BYLAW NO Bylaw No Reconsidered and Adopted July 10, Sections 4.2 and 4.3 have been amended - See File 2. Bylaw No Reconsidered and Adopted January 27, Amend Highway Commercial, Section 4.5 by inserting the words automobile service centres as follows: 4.5 Highway Commercial development such as service stations, automobile service centres, motels, restaurants or other facilities to meet the needs of the travelling public shall be encouraged to locate in the vicinity of or adjacent to the Yellowhead Highway and the Clearwater Valley Road intersection as shown on Land Use Map 4 provided said facilities have access to a frontage road system. All Highway Commercial development shall be adequately landscaped by means deemed appropriate by the Regional District. In addition, Highway Commercial development may be permitted in other appropriate locations, provided it is accessed from a major road other than the Yellowhead Highway. 3. Bylaw No Reconsidered and Adopted December 16, Sections 1, 12, 13 and 15 have been amended to include: Community Parks Policies; Riparian Areas Policies; and Wildfire Management Policies. - A new Wildfire Hazard map has been added as Map 6 - See Bylaw Bylaw No Reconsidered and Adopted April 14, 2011 Sections 1 and 14 amended to include: Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emission Reduction overview, targets, policies and actions

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5 INTRODUCTION: The has been prepared pursuant to Part 29 of the Municipal Act and consists of: i) a statement of the Board of Directors' objectives, policies and implementation program contained in this Schedule; ii) maps of the future land use included in this Schedule as the Clearwater Official Community Plan Maps. The provides a policy framework and serves as a basis for decisions and actions related to the use and development of all lands within the Clearwater Official Community Plan Area shown on Maps 1-5. It is based on the criteria and mandatory considerations set out in the Municipal Act. OTHER LEGISLATION: All or parts of the Area are subject to other Federal and Provincial legislation, including but not limited to the Forest Act, the Health Act, the Land Act, the Mines Act, the Mineral Tenure Act and the Agricultural Land Commission Act. In particular, a number of objectives, policies and land use designations of this Plan apply to land located in the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR). Where the provisions of this Plan provide for the development of land located in the ALR which is not consistent with the Agricultural Land Commission Act, regulations made thereunder or orders of the Commission, approval of the Provincial Agricultural Land Commission is required. Also the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources is responsible for administering energy and mineral resources in the Plan Area. Furthermore, a large portion of the Plan Area is Provincial Forest land which can only be managed and used for specific timber, grazing, recreation and resource purposes specified in the Forest Act. 1

6 SCHEDULE "A" This is Schedule "A" referred to in the Adoption Bylaw No. 1448,

7 CLEARWATER OFFICIAL COMMUNITY PLAN OBJECTIVES & POLICIES The broad objectives and policies of the Board of Directors with respect to the form and character of existing and proposed land use and servicing requirements within the Clearwater Official Community Plan Area are set out in this section. The objectives are to be achieved through the implementation of the listed policies which follow. 3

8 CLEARWATER OFFICIAL COMMUNITY PLAN 1. FORM AND CHARACTER OF EXISTING AND FUTURE LAND USE Objective: 1.0 TO DESIGNATE AND DIRECT THE PATTERN OF EXISTING AND FUTURE LAND USE IN ORDER TO PROMOTE ORDERLY GROWTH, PROVIDE OPPORTUNITY FOR A VARIETY OF RESIDENTIAL LIFESTYLES AND LAND USES, SUSTAIN THE EXISTING RESOURCE BASE AND TO PRESERVE THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENTAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE PLAN AREA. Policies: 1.1. That the future pattern of land use in the Area be consistent with the Official Community Plan Maps based on the following general guidelines: a) All existing Residential development will be recognized. Opportunities for a range of new Residential development subject to established development criteria and compliance with the density and servicing standards contained in the applicable Zoning Bylaw will be directed towards those lands appropriately designated on Maps 2-5. New Urban Residential development will be specifically directed towards those lands designated Urban Residential within the Urban Core shown on Map 4. b) Commercial development will be encouraged to locate in areas designated for each respective Commercial use shown on Maps 2-5. New Retail Commercial development shall locate in appropriately designated areas within the Urban Core capable of being serviced by community water and sewer. c) Industrial development including Sand/Gravel Resources and Mineral Resources subject to established development criteria wherever applicable will be encouraged to locate on lands appropriately designated on Maps 2-4. d) Agricultural use is recognized and encouraged in those designated areas outside of the Urban Core shown on Maps 2-5. e) Transportation, Heritage Conservation, Fisheries, Waterfowl, Wildlife and Water Resource land uses will be recognized and development which will impact the land uses will be encouraged to develop in accordance with the respective Plan 4

9 objectives, policies and the intergovernmental policies of the affected agency having jurisdiction. f) Environmental Constraints such as floodplains sensitive areas, and hazard lands will be recognized and development within these areas will be discouraged or restricted. g) Tourism and Recreation use will be encouraged in rural areas of the Plan where conflict with other resources uses can be avoided or minimized. h) Public Facility/Institutional uses will be facilitated by encouraging and directing development of this nature within designated areas bounded by the Yellowhead Highway and Park Drive designated on Map The scheme of existing and future land uses within the Plan Area are described through the following designations: a) Residential Development - Urban Residential - Limited Urban Residential - Rural Residential - Residential Development in a Rural Resource Area b) Rural Resource c) Commercial Development - Retail Commercial - Highway Commercial - Tourist Commercial - Service Commercial - Retail/Service Commercial - Industrial/Service Commercial - Temporary Commercial d) Industrial Development - Industrial - Industrial/Service Commercial - Temporary Industrial e) Sand/Gravel Resources or Mineral Resources f) Agriculture g) Transportation 5

10 h) Public Facility/Institutional i) Water Resources j) Fisheries, Waterfowl and Wildlife k) Environmental Constraints - Environmentally Sensitive Areas - Hazard Lands - Floodplains - Riparian Area - Wildfire Hazard Management l) Recreation m) Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emission Reduction n) Heritage Conservation o) Implementation 2. RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT Objective: 2.0 TO PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR A WIDE RANGE OF HOUSING FORMS AT VARIOUS DENSITIES, AND UNDER VARIOUS FORMS OF TENURE, TO ACCOMMODATE ALL INCOME, AGE GROUPS AND HOUSEHOLD TYPES. Policies: 2.1 This Plan provides for four (4) types of residential development of varying densities and servicing requirements: - Urban Residential; - Limited Urban Residential; - Rural Residential; - Residential Development in a Rural Resource Area. Residential development shall locate on lands designated for such use as shown on Maps Residential subdivision and development shall be encouraged, where it meets the following development criteria: a) occur within areas designated for urban or rural residential development as identified by this Plan; 6

11 b) is approved by the appropriate Provincial agency having authority if within the Agricultural Land Reserve; c) has minimal impact on existing adjacent uses; d) is adequately serviced based on the availability of water, the soil's ability to remove nutrients, the density of lots or such other environmental factors affecting the development; e) is designed to maximize efficient land use, and to this end, the developer shall provide an outline or concept plan indicating such matters as lot layout, access and servicing of the subject property, as well as potential extensions to adjoining properties, or any other matters as required by the Regional District, in consultation with the appropriate agencies; and f) complies with the density provisions of the applicable Zoning Bylaw. 2.3 Residential development shall be prohibited on lands with severe ground disposal limitations for sewage effluent unless adequate protection in the form of a community sewer, or an alternate sewage disposal system approved by the Provincial agency having authority is provided and maintained at the cost of the developer and/or property owner. Urban Residential: 2.4 Densities of five (5) units per hectare or greater serviced with community water and sewer by the Clearwater Improvement District shall be considered in areas designated Urban Residential. 2.5 New multi-family Urban Residential development serviced with community water and sewer by the Clearwater Improvement District shall locate within the Urban Core, where it will not adversely affect low density Urban Residential uses. Such locations include areas surrounding major activity centres, areas with direct access to collector or frontage roads and areas close to parks and schools. Specific locations will be considered by the Board of Directors at such time as applications are received for such uses. 2.6 In order to provide a greater diversity of housing choice, the development of a broad range of housing styles, types and amenities including affordable, rental and special needs housing which meet the development criteria of this Plan and the level of services 7

12 and other applicable requirements of the applicable Zoning Bylaw will be encouraged within the Urban Core. 2.7 In order to provide increase opportunity for affordable, rental and special needs housing or amenities on residentially zoned parcels within the Urban Core serviced by the Clearwater Improvement District community water and sewer, the Regional District will encourage density bonusing in conjunction with a negotiated housing agreement to be registered against the property title in the Land Titles Office. Mobile Home Parks: 2.8 Mobile Home Parks may be permitted within Urban Residential designated areas, provided that such developments have direct access to the major roadway system, with the exception of a Controlled Access Highway, and are adequately buffered from conventional housing and are serviced with community water and/or sewer by the Clearwater Improvement District. All Mobile Home Parks shall be subject to compliance with the Regional District's Mobile Home Parks Bylaw. Limited Urban Residential: 2.9 Those areas designated "Limited Urban Residential" on Land Use Maps 2-5 which are more urban than rural in nature due to their proximity to the Urban Core are to be kept at a low density due to topographic and ground disposal sewage constraints. Rural Residential: 2.10 The range of parcel sizes for Rural Residential subdivision in areas designated Rural Residential shall be 0.8 to 2.0 hectares provided that the proposal: a) has a minimal impact on existing or potential use of adjacent parcels; b) has been approved by the appropriate Provincial agency having authority if within the Agricultural Land Reserve; c) has an adequate supply of domestic water and means of sewage disposal. The minimum parcel size shall be 0.8 hectares. Residential Development in a Rural Resource Area: 2.11 Residential subdivision in an area designated Rural Resource may be permitted provided that it: a) involves land that is unsuitable for resource use: 8

13 b) will have minimal impact on existing or potential use of adjacent parcels; Schedule A c) has an adequate supply of domestic water and means of sewage disposal; and d) has been approved by the appropriate Provincial agency having authority if within the Agricultural Land Reserve The density of development on lands designated as Rural Resource shall be based on a minimum parcel size of 4.0 hectares A reduction of parcel size may be allowed where, at the date of adoption of the applicable Zoning Bylaw, a parcel is divided by an existing public highway or other major physical barrier and the resulting parcel which includes the entire divided part has a minimum area of 0.8 hectares provided it is not affected by the Agricultural Land Reserve where upon approval of the Provincial agency having authority would be required. 3. RURAL RESOURCE Objective: 3.0 TO RECOGNIZE AND SUPPORT RURAL RESOURCE ACTIVITIES WITHIN THE PLAN AREA. Policies: 3.1 Lands designated for Rural Resource use are shown on Maps Areas designated as Rural Resource may be used for a variety of actives including grazing, forestry, agriculture, resource extraction and public use. 4. COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT Objective: 4.0 TO ENCOURAGE CENTRALIZATION OF COMMERCIAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICES TO ENHANCE ACCESSIBILITY AND EFFICIENCY. Policies: 4.1 This Plan provides for six (6) types of Commercial land use: - Retail Commercial; 9

14 - Highway Commercial; - Tourist Commercial; - Service Commercial; - Retail/Service Commercial; - Industrial/Service Commercial. Schedule A Commercial land uses shall locate on lands designated for such use as shown on Maps 2-5. Retail Commercial: 4.2 Retail Commercial uses in those areas outside of the vicinity described in Policy 4.3 below serviced by community water and sewer where available shall locate within those areas appropriately designated on Land Use Maps 2 and Retail commercial uses shall be encouraged to locate within or adjacent to the Yellowhead Highway, Clearwater Valley Road and Park Drive intersection in order to enhance the evolution of this area as the new community commercial core. Retail commercial development may be permitted within this area provided that the development: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) has minimal impact on existing or potential use of adjacent parcels; is designed to maximize the efficient use of land and to this end, the developer shall provide an acceptable outline or conceptual plan including such matters as access, parking and loading, visual design, drainage and servicing of the subject property together with any other matters deemed necessary by the Regional District; has access to an internal, frontage or collector road rather than having direct access to a main highway and has been approved by the appropriate Provincial agency having authority if within 800 metres of a Controlled Access Highway; is serviced with community water and community sewer by the Clearwater Improvement District; and is landscaped by means deemed appropriate by the Regional District. 4.4 Applications for neighbourhood convenience stores located outside the designated commercial areas may be considered on an individual basis. Consideration will be given 10

15 to their impact on adjacent land use, and any other matters deemed appropriate by the Regional District. Highway Commercial: 4.5 Highway Commercial development such as service stations, automobile service centres, motels, restaurants or other facilities to meet the needs of the travelling public shall be encouraged to locate in the vicinity of or adjacent to the Yellowhead Highway and the Clearwater Valley Road intersection as shown on Land Use Map 4 provided said facilities have access to a frontage road system. All Highway Commercial development shall be adequately landscaped by means deemed appropriate by the Regional District. In addition, Highway Commercial development may be permitted in other appropriate locations, provided it is accessed from a major road other than the Yellowhead Highway. Tourist Commercial: 4.6 Tourist Commercial development shall locate within the area so designated on Land Use Map 4. Service Commercial: 4.7 Service Commercial development shall locate within the areas so designated on Land Use Maps 2, 3 and 4. Service Commercial in conjunction with Retail Commercial uses shall be considered in the Brookfield area designated on Land Use Map 4 as Retail/Service Commercial. Service Commercial in conjunction with Industrial uses shall be considered in the Flats and the Hydro Road areas designated on Land Use Map 4 as Industrial/Service Commercial. Areas designated Retail/Service Commercial and Industrial/Service Commercial shall be developed so that consideration is given to their visual impact having regard for the scenic value of the area by means deemed appropriate by the Regional District. Temporary Commercial Uses: 4.8 The Board of Directors hereby designates the entire Area as an area suitable for the issuance of Temporary Commercial Use Permits. 11

16 4.9 Temporary Commercial development may be permitted within the Plan Area provided that the development: a) is not located in an area designated Urban Residential; b) has access to an internal, frontage or collector road rather than having direct access to a main highway; c) is adequately serviced with a supply of potable water and means of sewage disposal; d) is designed to maximize the efficient use of land; e) is compatible with surrounding land uses and resource values of the area; f) has been approved by the appropriate Provincial agency having authority if within the Agricultural Land Reserve; g) has been approved by the appropriate Provincial agency having authority if within 800 metres of a Controlled Access Highway; h) complies with all conditions and requirements as may be further specified by the Regional District. 5. INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT Objective: 5.0 TO ENCOURAGE THE CREATION OF NEW EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AND A DIVERSIFIED INDUSTRIAL BASE WITHIN THE PLAN AREA AND TO PROTECT OTHER LAND USES FROM ENCROACHMENT BY INCOMPATIBLE INDUSTRIAL USES. Policies: Industrial: 5.1 Industrial land use activities shall locate on lands designated for such use as shown on Maps Industrial development shall be encouraged, only where it meets the following development criteria: a) where appropriate and adequate lands are designated for industrial development. Consideration shall be given to other locations which meet the remaining development criteria of this policy; b) has direct access to an internal, frontage or collector road system; 12

17 c) is adequately serviced based on the availability of water, the soil's ability to remove nutrients, the type of industrial process to occur, or such other factors affecting the development; d) has been approved by the appropriate Provincial agency having authority if within the Agricultural Land Reserve; e) has been approved by the appropriate Provincial agency having authority if within 800 metres of a Controlled Access Highway; f) has minimal impact on existing adjacent land uses; g) is designed to maximize efficient land use and, to this end, the developer shall provide an outline or concept plan indicating such matter as landscaping, access and servicing of the subject property or any other matters deemed necessary by the Regional District. Industrial/Service Commercial: 5.3 Industrial/Service Commercial development shall be encouraged to locate in appropriately designated areas in the Flats and Hydro Road areas shown on Map 4 subject to the development criteria outlined in Policy 5.2. Temporary Industrial Uses: 5.4 The Board of Directors hereby designates the entire Area as an area suitable for the issuance of Temporary Industrial Use Permits. 5.5 Temporary Industrial development may be permitted within the Plan Area provided that the development: a) is not located in an area designated Urban Residential; b) has access to an internal, frontage or collector road rather than having direct access to a main highway; c) is adequately serviced with a supply of potable water and means of sewage disposal; d) is designed to maximize the efficient use of land; e) is compatible with surrounding land uses and resource values of the area. f) has been approved by the appropriate Provincial agency having authority if within the Agricultural Land Reserve; 13

18 g) has been approved by the appropriate Provincial agency having authority if within 800 metres of a Controlled Access Highway; h) complies with all conditions and requirements as may be further specified by the Regional District; 6. SAND/GRAVEL RESOURCES AND MINERAL RESOURCES Objective: 6.0 TO IDENTIFY AND PRESERVE SAND/GRAVEL RESOURCES AND MINERAL RESOURCES FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENT. Policies: 6.1 The location and extent of known Sand and Gravel deposits within the Plan Area are identified and shown on Maps 2 and Recognizing that the extraction of Sand/Gravel Resources or Mineral Resources is not within the jurisdiction of the Regional District, the Board of Directors encourage that the extraction and on-site processing of Sand/Gravel Resources or Mineral Resources be located on lands designated for rural, agricultural and/or industrial land use within the Plan Area provided suitable noise and dust controls are employed. Intergovernmental Policy: 6.3 The appropriate Provincial agency having authority should be encouraged to work cooperatively with the Regional District to ensure that the location of Sand/Gravel Resource or Mineral Resource sites, or other site specific industries within the Plan Area are compatible with other land use activities in the vicinity. 7. AGRICULTURE Objective: 7.0 TO PRESERVE AGRICULTURAL LAND IN ORDER TO ENSURE PRESENT AND FUTURE FOOD PRODUCTION. Policies: 7.1 The amount and extent of lands within the Agricultural Land Reserve are shown on Maps

19 7.2 The Board of Directors shall not support applications for exclusion of lands from or subdivision of lands within the Agricultural Land Reserve, unless it is convinced that the land has no significant agricultural potential, or unless the Board of Directors is of the opinion that exclusion or subdivision is in the best interests of the community recognizing that final decisions on such applications lie with the appropriate Provincial agency having authority. 7.3 Support the preservation of designated and potential range and pasture land. Intergovernmental Policies: 7.4 Encourage the full utilization of all existing Crown and privately held agricultural land to complement the Provincial Government's goal of increased food production and agricultural self-sufficiency. 7.5 Reaffirm support for an expanded cooperative program designed to increase public awareness of noxious weeds and the implications of the spread of those weeds. 7.6 Request fencing be constructed to a minimum legal standard at the perimeter of any new non-farm development abutting agricultural land and maintained at the cost of the developer or subsequent property owner. 7.7 Support and encourage the appropriate Provincial agency having authority to review and update the Agricultural Land Reserve. 8. TRANSPORTATION Objective: 8.0 TO ENSURE AN EFFECTIVE TRANSPORTATION NETWORK, AND TO PROTECT THE EXPANSION POTENTIAL OF SAID NETWORK WHILE ENHANCING SAFE AND EFFICIENT MOVEMENT TO AND WITHIN THE PLAN AREA. Policies: 8.1 Recognize the Major Street Network, as identified on Maps 2-5 as an essential component of this Plan and discourage development or subdivision which may detract from the integrity of any element of the Network. 15

20 8.2 The Regional District shall prohibit strip subdivision and development along the Yellowhead Highway and major roads that would impede traffic flow, or compromise public safety. Intergovernmental Policies: 8.3 In consultation with the appropriate Provincial agencies having authority, encourage all development adjacent to the Controlled Access Highway (Yellowhead Highway) and existing or proposed major roads, to be set back an adequate distance to allow for future road widening or other highway right-of-way improvements. 8.4 Development within 800m of a Controlled Access Highway (Yellowhead Highway) shall be subject to the appropriate provisions of the Highway Act. 8.5 Steps shall be taken to ensure smooth traffic flow and public safety at the intersection of the Yellowhead Highway and the Clearwater Valley Road and at the intersection of the Yellowhead Highway and the old North Thompson Highway in the vicinity of Dutch Lake, as deemed appropriate by the Provincial agency having authority. Such steps may include the installation of traffic lights or a suitable channelization scheme based on further technical analysis. 8.6 In consultation with the appropriate Provincial agencies having authority, provisions shall be made for access to the proposed commercial core, which is located between the Yellowhead Highway and Weyerhaeuser Subdivision. 9. PUBLIC FACILITY/INSTITUTIONAL Objective: 9.0 TO PROVIDE FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF PUBLIC FACILITIES, INCLUDING SCHOOLS, MEDICAL FACILITIES, FIRE PROTECTION, WATER AND SEWER SYSTEMS, AND SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL ALTERNATIVES TO MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE LOCAL COMMUNITY, WITHIN THE FINANCIAL CAPABILITIES OF THAT COMMUNITY, THE REGIONAL DISTRICT, AND THE RESPECTIVE AGENCIES CHARGED WITH ADMINISTERING THOSE NEEDS. 16

21 Policies: Schedule A 9.1 Refuse disposal sites shall not be located within 3 km of a residential development area due to public exposure to wildlife, fire, health hazards and visual unsightliness unless it can be demonstrated that no other suitable site exists. All refuse disposal sites shall be adequately maintained and fenced, within the financial capabilities of the Regional District. 9.2 Further Institutional land uses will be encouraged to locate in the area south of the Yellowhead Highway adjacent to the Secondary School and Sportsplex. Access to this area will be provided from Park Drive, in order to limit traffic congestion along the Yellowhead Highway and to enhance this area as the Institutional core of the Plan. Intergovernmental Policies: 9.3 The Regional District shall cooperate with the appropriate Provincial agencies having authority in order to examine the utilization of alternative forms of sewage disposal in order to reduce the impact of ground disposal on water courses within the Plan Area, particularly the water quality of Dutch Lake. 9.4 The Regional District shall regularly consult and cooperate with the North Thompson School District No. 26 on matters relative to school district planning and needs assessment. 9.5 The following land use concerns are not provided for in this Plan. Should demand warrant, these items may be addressed at a later date: - Future Locations of Trunk Sewer and Water Mains; - Waste Treatment and Disposal Sites. 10. WATER RESOURCES Objective: 10.0 TO RECOGNIZE THE IMPORTANCE OF WATER RESOURCES AND THE NEED TO PROTECT AND IMPROVE THE QUALITY AND QUANTITY OF THOSE RESOURCES FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS. 17

22 Policies: Schedule A 10.1 No septic or alternative ground disposal sewage system shall be located within 150m of the highwater mark of Dutch Lake. Further, no septic or alternative ground disposal sewage system shall be located within 90m of the highwater mark of any other water course, except where a greater distance is required in accordance with the Management Guideline of the Lakes Study. Intergovernmental Policies: 10.2 Cooperate with local interest groups, Federal and Provincial agencies to establish surface water enhancement programs within the Plan Area In cooperation with the appropriate Provincial agencies having authority recognize the effect of forest practices outside the Plan Area on water resources within the Plan Area Development on the foreshore (area below the natural boundary or highwater mark of a water body) shall be discouraged without the approval of the Provincial agency having authority. 11. FISHERIES, WATERFOWL AND WILDLIFE Objective: 11.0 TO PROTECT AND ENHANCE FISHERIES, WATERFOWL AND WILDLIFE HABITATS WITHIN THE PLAN AREA. Policies: 11.1 Encourage the preservation of wildlife, waterfowl, and fishery habitats through controlled disposition of Crown lands, and/or subdivision and development of private lands. Development shall be directed away from known spawning streams, waterbodies and from important wildlife habitat. These areas include: North Thompson River, Clearwater River, Raft River, Brookfield Creek and Dutch Lake as well as ungulate ranges located on the north side of the North Thompson River and on the west side of the Clearwater River All development shall incorporate soil conversation practices recognizing slope, soil type, and precipitation in order to prevent any increase in sediment loading of streams 18

23 and rivers in the Plan Area. In this regard, particular attention should be given to the protection of riparian shoreline or stream bank vegetation; the prevention of unnatural erosion and the discharge of deleterious materials in order to protect spawning habitats and migration routes. Activities involving landfill, diking, channelization, or any change to the natural system of water courses shall be discouraged except where such activities form part of a riverbank stabilization project designed to prevent significant erosion of agricultural land. Intergovernmental Policies: 11.3 All proposals for development within the Plan Area that may have an effect on wildlife, waterfowl or on fish habitat (defined as "spawning grounds and nursery rearing, food supply and migration areas on which fish depend directly or indirectly in order to carry out their life processes") shall be referred to the appropriate Federal and/or Provincial authorities for their comments and recommendations Subdivision of moderate deer range and other critical wildlife habitat, as determined by the Provincial authority having jurisdiction, shall be discouraged. This policy is stated with the understanding that existing subdivisions may be developed and that private land owners may continue to enjoy and benefit from the assets of the property and rights that accrue Encourage the continuation of Federal and Provincial fish stocking and enhancement programs in the Plan Area and prohibit development that may detrimentally affect these programs. 12. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSTRAINTS Objective: 12.0 TO RECOGNIZE AND RESPECT THE DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS IMPOSED BY ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS AND TO ENSURE THAT DEVELOPMENTS IN HAZARDOUS AREAS ARE AVOIDED OR THAT ADEQUATE PRECAUTIONS ARE TAKEN IF DEVELOPMENT IS UNAVOIDABLE. 19

24 Policies: Environmentally Sensitive Areas: Schedule A 12.1 Within the Plan Area the existence of the following sensitive lands should be recognized: - lands which are unsuitable for ground disposal due to tight or restrictive soil conditions such as those designated Limited Urban Residential Where these conditions exist, development of said lands may be permitted when it can be demonstrated to the Board of Directors satisfaction that such uses will not accentuate the sensitive conditions. Approval of future development within such areas may be granted subsequent to satisfactory arrangements for sewage disposal and/or the submission of a detailed report certified by a Professional Engineer stating that the use of the land may be carried out safely. Any development which takes place on affected properties shall comply with the recommendations of the engineering report and/or requirements of the appropriate Federal and/or Provincial agencies having authority. Hazard Lands: 12.3 Within the Plan Area the existence of the following hazardous conditions, should be recognized: - floodplains; - watercourse, embankments subject to erosion; - debris torrents; - fans at the mouths of larger tributaries subject to channel shifting and bank overflow; - areas adjoining steep slopes, creek channels or gullies which are susceptible to avalanche; - areas near the base of colluvial slopes or bedrock outcrops which are susceptible to rolling or falling rock; - steep slopes (i.e slops in excess of 30%) or areas at the base of the steep slopes; - areas susceptible to subsidence or unstable soils. 20

25 Intergovernmental Policies: Schedule A 12.4 In order to ensure the safety of life and property, developers of any parcel within a hazard area may be required to submit a report from a Professional Engineer, in accordance with good engineering practice, which addresses the relevant hazard and the intended means of mitigating the potential impact of this hazard on the proposed development to assist the Regional District in assessing the development potential of the lands in questions. Any development which takes place on the subject property shall comply with the recommendations of the report and the requirements of appropriate Federal and Provincial agencies having authority. Floodplain: 12.5 Limit development on floodprone areas to parks, open space, recreation or nonintensive agricultural uses. If more intensive development is unavoidable, the Board of Directors will rely on the appropriate Provincial agency having authority to specify the necessary precautions to be taken For any development within a floodplain area, setbacks and elevations for buildings and structures should be established in consultation with the appropriate Provincial agency having authority. Floodplain regulations may also apply to other waterbodies and watercourses in the Plan Area which may not be identified. Riparian Areas 12.7 The Riparian Areas Regulation applies to land and watercourses within the Official Community Plan, and is implemented in accordance with Zoning Bylaw No and amendments thereto The Regional District will work with First Nations, Federal, and Provincial governments, and civil society organizations toward improving the stewardship, protection, and enhancement of riparian values Where Riparian Areas Regulation requirements and wildfire hazard management requirements overlap, the Riparian Areas Regulation requirements shall prevail Encourage the Provincial government to enhance and share improved riparian areas mapping with the TNRD to reduce the financial burden and responsibility on private 21

26 landowners who may be required to retain the services of a Qualified Environmental Professional (QEP) to define and evaluate the impact of a development on a riparian area. Wildfire Hazard Management Wildfire is a risk for rural communities and settlements in the Official Community Plan Area. The objective of the Wildfire Hazard Management policies is to regulate development activities to reduce the risk to citizens and property in areas where there is a hazard of wildfire. Two factors have increased the hazard of wildfire within the Official Community Plan Area. The first event is the forest health epidemic, which is causing a widespread mortality of trees, thereby adding fuel loads to forests and grasslands, and to any wildfire that should arise. Secondly, it is anticipated that one of the impacts of climate change will be increased drought during late spring, summer, and early autumn; drought can increase the duration of the wildfire season, and have a negative impact on the availability of water to combat wildfires in our communities. The Official Community Plan Area has High Wildfire Hazard Areas, as identified by the Ministry of Forests and Range and shown on the attached Wildfire Hazard map. Also shown on the Wildfire Hazard map are Buffer Zones, which represent land located within 2 kilometers of the High Wildfire Hazard Areas that are at risk of fire through spotting of airborne embers; and Moderate to Low Wildfire Hazard Areas Within a High Wildfire Hazard Area, prior to undertaking any subdivision or land use application that will create four or more parcels or dwelling units, the landowner shall provide the Regional District with a Wildfire Hazard Assessment Report for the proposed development, prepared by a Registered Professional Forester licensed in BC or equivalent qualified professional. The Wildfire Hazard Assessment Report shall: i. Assess the current wildfire hazard; ii. Assess conditions on and off-site including neighbouring lands; iii. Evaluate the proposed development for wildfire susceptibility; and iv. Provide Fire Smart wildfire hazard mitigation recommendations to reduce the hazard of wildfire for the land and buildings to moderate or lower. 22

27 The recommendations of the Wildfire Hazard Assessment Report shall be implemented during development and be written into a restrictive covenant to be registered on the property title advising the property owner of the ongoing responsibility to manage their land and buildings in accordance with the recommendations of the Wildfire Hazard Assessment Report Within High Wildfire Hazard Areas, during any subdivision or land use application that will create three or less parcels or dwelling units the property owner shall not be required to submit a Wildfire Hazard Assessment Report, but shall register a standard restrictive covenant on the titles of the properties encouraging landowners to use Fire Smart wildfire hazard mitigation practices for building construction and land management to reduce the wildfire hazard in their development Within the Buffer Zones and Moderate to Low Wildfire Hazard Areas, during any subdivision or land use application the property owner shall register a standard restrictive covenant on the titles of the properties encouraging landowners to use Fire Smart wildfire hazard mitigation practices for building construction and land management to reduce the wildfire hazard in their development Where Wildfire Hazard Management requirements and Riparian Areas requirements overlap, the Riparian Areas requirements shall prevail. 13. RECREATION Objective: 13.0 TO PROVIDE OUTDOOR RECREATION AND CONSERVATION OPPORTUNITIES WHILE MINIMIZING RECREATIONAL-AGRICULTURAL LAND USE CONFLICTS AND PRESERVING THE RURAL CHARACTER AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY OF THE PLAN AREA. Policies: 13.1 Encourage the retention of unimpeded public access to water based recreational areas. 23

28 13.2 Prepare a Community Parks Master Plan within the term of this Official Community Plan Prepare a Trails Network Plan as part of a Community Parks Master Plan or as an independent project, possibly in collaboration with communities of interest including provincial resource agencies, ALC, first nations and local service groups Work with service clubs and other organizations to provide public facilities within parks Encourage the sharing of fields, playgrounds and recreational facilities with School Districts Provide park facilities based upon the recommended standard of 4 hectares per 1000 population as follows: neighbourhood parks = 1 hectare/1000 community parks = 3 hectares/1000 Park Land and Open Space Acquisition: 13.7 Recreational lands and existing park sites are designated and shown on the Land Use Map (Maps 2-4). They will continue to provide recreation opportunities within the Plan Area With the development of new subdivisions, the direction of the Plan respecting park land acquisition is as follows: (a) (b) to acquire additional park land within areas designated URBAN RESIDENTIAL, LIMITED URBAN RESIDENTIAL and RURAL RESIDENTIAL as shown on the Land Use Maps. under Section 941 of the Local Government Act, the Regional District may, at its option, require a subdivision applicant to dedicate park land or pay money in lieu of park land, in accordance with the following: (i) generally require payment of money when subdivisions are not within the area shown on the Land Use Map where the Plan calls for acquisition of additional park land 24

29 (ii) (iii) generally require payment of money when subdivisions are within the designated area for park land acquisition, but would not be able to meet the criteria for park land dedication i.e. size, function, topography the money paid to the Regional District in lieu of park land dedication will be used for park land acquisition within the Plan Area (c) the criteria for selection of land to be dedicated by a subdivision applicant for park purposes include the following provisions: (i) dedication of up to 5% of the entire subject property (as permitted in the Local Government Act) (ii) wherever feasible, the minimum area of the land to be dedicated should meet the guideline of being not less than 2,000 m (iii) consideration of potential for additional dedication through future subdivision of contiguous parcels when choosing location (iv) the land to be dedicated should have an average slope of less than 20%, and contain no obvious hazards such as, but not necessarily limited to, landslip or flooding (v) natural areas or areas suitable for amenity or stewardship purposes may be sought where appropriate (vi) areas suitable for the protection of cultural resources may be sought where appropriate (vii) the land to be dedicated should have good road accessibility (viii) the land to be dedicated shall be free of liens or encumbrances The Plan encourages provision of new park land that will complement existing private and public recreation facilities, rather than compete with or duplicate existing resources The Plan encourages local community groups to operate and maintain community and neighbourhood parks where possible. Intergovernmental Policies: The Thompson-Nicola Regional District shall cooperate with the appropriate Provincial agencies having authority to secure lands that are important for public recreational use. 25

30 13.12 Cooperate with the appropriate Provincial agencies having authority to promote an expansion of recreational opportunities on Crown lands adjacent to the Plan Area where conflicts with resource uses, wildlife habitats, conservation areas, and residential development may be minimized Encourage the appropriate Provincial agencies having authority to expand the range of recreational activities at the North Thompson River Provincial Park, Wells Gray Provincial Park, and Spahats Provincial Park. This may include a possible increase in the number of campsites, the establishment of hiking and cross-country trails, and the preservation of natural features such as the natural bridge at Raft stream Cooperate with the appropriate Provincial agencies having authority and interest groups in a coordinated effort aimed at increasing public awareness of subjects such as watershed management, ATV use, stock grazing practices, noxious weed control and factors causing soil erosion in rural areas of the Plan in order to reduce the impact of recreational activities in rural areas Cooperate with the appropriate Provincial agencies having authority, as well as Canadian National Railways to increase opportunities for public access to the Clearwater, North Thompson, and Raft rivers, where access can be provided while ensuring public safety and suitable water quality protection In cooperation with the appropriate Provincial agencies having authority, the Regional District may establish community parks as demand warrants The Thompson-Nicola Regional District shall work towards the formulation of a Regional Parks Plan, in cooperation with the Provincial agencies having authority Support the proposed Provincial government all-terrain vehicle licensing program, under the All Terrain Vehicles Act. 14. GREENHOUSE GAS (GHG) EMISSION REDUCTION In 2007, the Provincial Government passed Bill 44 the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Targets Act thereby committing the Province to reduce GHG emissions by 33% below 2007 levels by 26

31 the year 2020 and 80% below 2007 levels by the year In order to help achieve this commitment, the Province enacted the Local Government (Green Communities) Statutes Amendment Act ( Bill 27 ). Under this legislation and Section 877(3) of the Local Government Act, Official Community Plans are now required to include targets for the reduction of GHG emissions as well as policies and actions to support the reduction targets. As signatory to the B.C. Climate Action Charter, the TNRD has voluntarily agreed to develop strategies and take actions to achieve the following goals: i. being carbon neutral in respect of corporate operations by 2012, ii. measuring and reporting on the community s GHG emissions profile; and iii. creating complete, compact, more energy efficient rural and urban communities. Targets The Province has provided each local government with a Community Energy & Emissions Inventory (CEEI) report to track and report annual community-wide energy consumption and GHG emissions. For the baseline year 2007, the Regional District s CEEI report includes GHG emission estimates in three sectors - on-road transportation, buildings, and solid waste. There is no specific data on the quantity of GHG emissions generated within the Plan Area. However, the CEEI data shows that transportation accounts for the majority of GHG emissions in the region followed by buildings and solid waste. Reducing transportation emissions is a challenge in rural communities therefore additional Provincial and Federal Government policies, actions and initiatives will be needed to support the community-wide GHG reduction targets set by the Regional District. Recognizing the challenges of reducing GHG emissions in rural communities, the Regional District sets the following community-wide GHG reduction targets: 10% by 2020 from 2007 levels 33% by 2050 from 2007 levels The Regional District will utilize the provincially supplied 2007 CEEI data as the baseline for measuring GHG emission reductions. Achievement of the community-wide reduction targets will be supported by the following policies and actions: 27

32 Policies: 14.1 Consider climate change and the impacts of land use decision making on climate Schedule A change when reviewing new development applications and undertaking long-range planning initiatives Encourage compact community design, infill development and planning strategies that reinforce smart growth principles and best practices in sustainable development Encourage and support non-vehicular walkways, trails and alternative modes of transportation to help reduce automobile dependence Encourage home-based businesses that do not create a nuisance or detract from the residential character of a neighbourhood Encourage and support energy efficient new construction and the retrofit of existing buildings Encourage water conservation, including the installation of low-flow plumbing fixtures in new construction Encourage low-impact renewable energy generation including solar and geothermal technology Encourage and support initiatives to upgrade wood-burning appliances through wood stove exchange programs Support the preservation of agricultural lands and local food production Encourage local community gardens and farmers markets within the Plan Area Encourage tree planting where appropriate and the retention of existing healthy trees and natural vegetation during new development Support recycling initiatives and the diversion of waste from area landfills. Actions: As signatory to the Climate Action Charter, the Regional District will take steps to address and support the goals of the Charter. 28

33 14.14 Raise awareness about BC Climate Action and energy conservation by making relevant informational material available to residents of the Regional District Investigate potential incentives to builders, developers and homeowners who incorporate alternative energy sources Investigate the feasibility of a tree planting incentive program for residents of the Regional District Request the Province s continued support in providing the Regional District with the tools and resources necessary to monitor and measure GHG reduction levels Continue to raise awareness about recycling and landfill diversion through educational initiatives such as newsletters, information guides, and newspaper inserts Continue to explore opportunities to reduce energy use at Regional District recycling and refuse transfer stations including through the use of alternative energy generation Support waste reduction policies and actions outlined in the Regional Solid Waste Management Plan, including a region-wide goal of 30% reduction in waste disposal by 2013 (from 2004 levels) The Regional District shall work toward a comprehensive regional greenhouse gas reduction strategy, including action plans for: a. Encouraging and improving public transit b. Encouraging public transit/car-pooling for all Regional District personnel c. Improving the energy efficiency of existing Regional District buildings d. Using a minimum LEED Gold equivalent standard for all new Regional District buildings where practical, affordable and applicable e. Purchasing fuel efficient green vehicles whenever possible f. Reducing Regional District personnel travel through video conferencing and other available methods g. Enhancing urban and rural forests in the Regional District and participating communities where possible 29

34 h. Seeking partnerships with participating Regional District municipalities on joint green initiatives and undertakings i. Encouraging development of energy efficient (green) refueling/re-charge options/networks within the Regional District and member municipalities. 15. HERITAGE CONSERVATION Objective: 15.0 TO ENCOURAGE AND FACILITATE THE IDENTIFICATION PROTECTION AND CONSERVATION OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HERITAGE RESOURCES. Policies: 15.1 Sites of known archaeological significance within the Plan Area are shown on Maps 2-4. Intergovernmental Policies: 15.2 The Regional District recognizes that archaeological sites are protected under the Heritage Conservation Act though designation as a Provincial heritage sites or through automatic protection by virtue of being of particular historic or archaeological value. Development shall not excavate, alter or destroy the archaeological resources of the Plan Area identified by the Thompson-Nicola Regional District archaeological survey compiled between 1974 and 1979 and those sites which may be discovered by landowners or developers or identified in updated surveys from time to time except where approved through a permit issued under the Heritage Conservation Act Examine the feasibility and financial implications of incorporating Heritage Conservation as a function of the Regional District. 16. IMPLEMENTATION Objective: 16.0 TO ACHIEVE THE OBJECTIVES OF THIS OFFICIAL COMMUNITY PLAN, WHILE FOSTERING COOPERATION BETWEEN ALL AGENCIES RESPONSIBLE FOR PLANNING AND LAND USE WITHIN THE PLAN AREA. 30

35 Policies: Schedule A 16.1 Future changes to Thompson-Nicola Regional District Zoning Bylaw No. 940 must comply with the objectives and policies of this Plan Amendments to this Plan may be made from time to time to further the development objectives, and/or to reflect changing local circumstances Those areas not developed for the uses for which they are designated at the time of adoption of this Plan may continue their current uses until such time that they are proposed for development in accordance with the policies of this Plan. Intergovernmental Policies: 16.4 The Thompson-Nicola Regional District shall take steps necessary to assume the subdivision approving function for the Plan Area Encourage greater coordinated land use planning between all Municipal, Federal and Provincial agencies having authority over land use decisions within and surrounding the Plan Area. Approval Process for Development Proposals Contrary to the Plan: 16.6 With respect to development proposal which are contrary to the objectives, policies or land use map designations of this Plan, an amendment to the Plan shall be required before the development proposal can be accommodated. Providing that the Board of Directors wishes to proceed with the consideration of such a proposal, an amendment to the Official Community Plan shall involve a change to the relevant policy or land use map designation. Upon amendment to the Plan, the procedures prescribed in the Municipal Act for rezoning and subdivision approval shall apply Continue to build and enhance working relationships with First Nations in the plan area, recognizing that constructive and enduring relationships with aboriginal communities provide a foundation for continued constructive dialogue on future regional land use issues. 31

36 Legend URBAN RESIDENTIAL LIMITED URBAN RESIDENTIAL RURAL RESIDENTIAL RETAIL COMMERCIAL SERVICE COMMERCIAL HIGHWAY COMMERCIAL TOURIST COMMERCIAL RETAIL\SERVICE COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL INDUSTRIAL\SERVICE COMMERCIAL RECREATIONAL AGRICULTURAL Dutch Lake INSTITUTIONAL RURAL RESOURCE Clearwater River Plan Area Boundary Urban Core Boundary Raft River Proposed Major Roads Archaeological Sites Sand & Gravel Pits North Thompson River River Cadastral 1:15, ,000 Meters

37 Wildfire Hazard Map # 6 µ Sands Creek! District of Clearwater! Clearwater School Creek! S t a r L a k e! Gill Creek Dutch Lake L o l o L a k e Lolo Creek!! Hascheak Creek! Jenkins Creek Colborne Lake!5 Blackpool!! Rowley Creek! Russell Creek McDougal Creek! Foghorn Creek!! Russell Creek! Mann Creek Electoral Area "A" (Wells Gray Country) East Blackpool! Russell Lake Foghorn Creek! McDougal Creek! High Risk Area Lake # Skwilatin Mountain This Schedule "F" is incorporated in and forms part of Bylaw No. 2238, Lolo Creek! Electoral Area "O" Certified Correct: Clerk Mosquito Flats!! Mosquito Flats! Rennie Creek Map Rotation Angle : -3.8 Meters ,000 1:50,000 March, 2010 The information on this map was compiled by the TNRD for regulatory and internal reference purposes only. No representation or warranty is made as to the accuracy of the information. Buffer Zone (2km) Moderate to Low Risk Area OCP Boundary Property Electoral & Municipal Boundary River/Stream Intermittent Stream 100m Contour Highway