HomeMy Public PortalAboutOfficial Community Plan Consolidated Bylaw 1370
Town of Oliver
Official Community Plan
Bylaw 1370
CONSOLIDATED FOR PUBLIC CONVENIENCE
(Includes Amendments up to April 11, 2023)
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
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CONSOLIDATED TO APRIL 11, 2023
1370.01 Adopted June 12,
2017
Lot A, Plan EEP31652,
DL 2450s, SDYD
From part Town Centre (TC) to part Parks,
Recreation and Open Space (P)
Lot B, Plan EEP31652,
DL 2450s, SDYD
From part Parks, Recreation and Open
Space (P), to part Town Centre (TC)
1370.02
Adopted
November 25,
2019
Vacation Rentals
1370.03 Adopted April 11,
2022
Amending Sections 23.1, 23.2, 23.3, 23.4,
Replacing Schedule ‘F’ of Town of Oliver
1370.04
Adopted July 9,
2018
Adding new subsection .7 under Section
8.3
Adding new subsection .7 under Section
8.4
Changing land use designation from
Industrial (I) to Commercial Highway (CH)
Removing a 2.8 ha from Industrial
Development Permit Area to Commercial
Development Permit Area
1370.05 Adopted
September 24,
2018
Bicycle and Mobility Scooter Parking
Renaming, amending and adding
subsections
1370.06 Adopted May 13,
2019
Lot 14, Plan KAP3194,
District Lot 2450S, SDYD,
Portion L 52
From Medium Density Residential (MR) to
Low Density Residential (LR).
1370.07 Adopted October
15, 2019
Lot 1, Plan KAP38137,
District Lot 2450S, SDYD,
Except Plan KAP51368,
KAP67667 & KAP82324
Amending Schedule ‘B’ by changing the land
use designation from Commercial Highway
(CH) to High Density Residential (HR) and
amending Schedule ‘F’ from Commercial to
Multiple Family
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1370.08 Adopted March 27,
2023
Lot 1, DL 2450s, SDYD,
Plan KAP92854
Amending by changing the land use
designation of a portion of the parcel
from LR (Low Density Residential) to AG
(Agricultural) and amending by adding a
portion of the subject property to the
Multiple Family Development Permit
Area.
1370.09 Adopted February
27, 2023
Lot A, DL 2450s, SDYD,
Plan EPP112114
Lot B, DL 2450s, SDYD,
Plan EPP112114
Lot 37, DL 2450s, SDYD,
Plan KAP79057 Lot 15, DL
2450s, SDYD, Plan
KAP79057
Amending Schedule ‘F’ by adding the
following parcels to the Multiple Family
Development Permit Area.
1370.10 Adopted April 11,
2023
Lot 5, Block 16, DL 2450s,
SDYD, Lot 5, Block 16, DL
2450s, SDYD
Amending Schedule ‘B’ by changing the
land use designation from HR to TC and
amending Schedule ‘F’ by changing the
development permit area from Multiple
Family to Town Centre.
Table of Contents
1. INTERPRETATION AND ADMINISTRATION ........................................................................................... 10
1.1 Interpretation.............................................................................................................................. 10
1.2 Administration ............................................................................................................................ 10
1.3 Amending the Plan ...................................................................................................................... 10
1.4 Development Approval Information ........................................................................................... 10
1.5 Agriculture Land Reserve ............................................................................................................ 11
2. INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................................... 12
2.1 Role, Purpose and Scope............................................................................................................. 12
2.2 Planning Process ......................................................................................................................... 13
3. COMMUNITY PROFILE ......................................................................................................................... 14
3.1 Location and Geography ............................................................................................................. 14
3.2 Natural Environment................................................................................................................... 14
3.3 History ......................................................................................................................................... 15
3.4 Population and Demographics .................................................................................................... 16
3.5 Household Size ............................................................................................................................ 18
3.6 Housing Type ............................................................................................................................... 18
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3.7 Local Economy ............................................................................................................................ 18
4. COMMUNITY GOALS ............................................................................................................................ 21
4.1 Broad Community Goals ............................................................................................................. 21
5. REGIONAL GROWTH STRATEGY ........................................................................................................... 22
6. GROWTH MANAGEMENT .................................................................................................................... 26
6.1 Background ................................................................................................................................. 26
6.2 Capacity ....................................................................................................................................... 26
6.3 Objectives.................................................................................................................................... 27
6.4 Policies ........................................................................................................................................ 27
7. OFFICIAL COMMUNITY PLAN MAP DESIGNATIONS ............................................................................. 29
8. RESIDENTIAL ........................................................................................................................................ 30
8.1 Objectives.................................................................................................................................... 30
8.2 Policies ........................................................................................................................................ 31
8.3 Policies – Low Density Residential (LR) ....................................................................................... 32
8.4 Policies – Medium Density Residential (MR) .............................................................................. 32
8.5 Policies – High-Density Residential (HR) ..................................................................................... 33
9. TOWN CENTRE ..................................................................................................................................... 34
9.1 Objectives.................................................................................................................................... 35
9.2 Policies ........................................................................................................................................ 35
10. COMMERCIAL ...................................................................................................................................... 37
10.1 Objectives.................................................................................................................................... 37
10.2 Policies – Commercial Highway (CH) .......................................................................................... 38
10.3 Policies – Commercial Tourist (CT) .............................................................................................. 38
11. INDUSTRIAL .......................................................................................................................................... 40
11.1 Objectives.................................................................................................................................... 40
11.2 Policies ........................................................................................................................................ 40
12. AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SYSTEMS .................................................................................................... 42
12.1 Objectives.................................................................................................................................... 42
12.2 Policies ........................................................................................................................................ 42
13. ADMINISTRATIVE, INSTITUTIONAL AND CULTURAL ............................................................................ 45
13.1 Objectives.................................................................................................................................... 46
13.2 Policies ........................................................................................................................................ 46
14. PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ............................................................................................... 48
14.1 Objectives.................................................................................................................................... 48
14.2 Policies ........................................................................................................................................ 48
15. ENVIRONMENT AND CONSERVATION ................................................................................................. 51
15.1 Objectives.................................................................................................................................... 52
15.2 Policies ........................................................................................................................................ 53
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16. HAZARD LANDS .................................................................................................................................... 55
16.1 Objectives.................................................................................................................................... 56
16.2 Policies ........................................................................................................................................ 56
17. TRANSPORTATION ............................................................................................................................... 58
17.1 Objectives.................................................................................................................................... 59
17.2 Policies ........................................................................................................................................ 60
18. INFRASTRUCTURE AND SERVICING ...................................................................................................... 62
18.1 Objectives.................................................................................................................................... 63
18.2 Policies ........................................................................................................................................ 63
19. CLIMATE CHANGE & GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS REDUCTION ...................................................... 65
19.1 Objectives.................................................................................................................................... 65
19.2 Policies ........................................................................................................................................ 65
20. HEALTH, WELLBEING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ................................................................... 67
20.1 Objectives.................................................................................................................................... 67
20.2 Policies ........................................................................................................................................ 67
21. LOCAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ...................................................................................................... 69
21.1 Objectives.................................................................................................................................... 69
21.2 Policies ........................................................................................................................................ 69
22. TEMPORARY USE PERMITS .................................................................................................................. 71
22.1 Objectives.................................................................................................................................... 71
22.2 Policies ........................................................................................................................................ 71
23. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS............................................................................................................ 73
23.1 Town Centre Development Permit Area ..................................................................................... 74
23.2 Multi-Family Development Permit Area ..................................................................................... 79
23.3 Commercial Development Permit Area ...................................................................................... 84
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23.4 Industrial Development Permit Area .......................................................................................... 88
23.5 Environmentally Sensitive Development Permit Area ................................................................ 91
23.6 Watercourse Development Permit Area .................................................................................... 95
24. IMPLEMENTATION ............................................................................................................................... 98
24.1 Refinements and Amendments .................................................................................................. 98
24.2 Follow-up Studies and Actions .................................................................................................... 99
24.3 Zoning Bylaw ............................................................................................................................... 99
24.4 Monitoring and Evaluation ......................................................................................................... 99
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Map Schedules
Schedule ‘B’ (Official Community Plan Map)
Schedule ‘C’ (Hazard Lands Map)
Schedule ‘D’ (Parks and Recreation and Trails Network Map)
Schedule ‘E’ (Transportation Network Map)
Schedule ‘F’ (Form and Character Development Permit Areas Map)
Schedule ‘G’ (Environmentally Sensitive Development Permit Areas Map)
Schedule ‘H’ (Watercourse Development Permit Areas Map)
Figures and Tables
Table 1: Town of Oliver Population, 1986-2011
Table 2: Regional Context Statement
Table 3: Residential Development Capacity by Development Type
Table 4: Residential Development Capacity by Unit Type
Table 5: Specific setbacks for RAR watercourses in Waterfront DPA
Table 6: OCP Actions and Initiatives
Figure 1: Town of Oliver Historic Population Growth and Future Population Projections
Figure 2: Town of Oliver 2011 Population by Gender and Age Cohort
Figure 3: BC 2011 Population by Gender and Age Cohort
Figure 4: Housing by Dwelling Type
Figure 5: Top sectors for employment in Oliver, 2001- 2011
Figure 6: Employment by sector – RDOS, 2001- 2011
Figure 7: Corner building example
Figure 8: Setbacks for entrances and patios
Figure 9: Upper floors set back to reduce appearance of size of building
Figure 9: Building façade articulation
Figure 10: Buildings and sidewalk orientation and presentation
Map 1: Town of Oliver Growth Containment Boundary (2016)
Map 2: Town of Oliver Agricultural Land Reserve Area (2016)
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Town of Oliver
Official Community Plan Bylaw 1370
A Bylaw to guide land use decisions within the Town of Oliver pursuant to
Division 4 of the Local Government Act of British Columbia, R.S.B.C. 2015.
WHEREAS the Council of the Town of Oliver wishes to adopt an Official Community Plan
pursuant to Division 4 of the Local Government Act;
AND WHEREAS Council may adopt an Official Community Plan by bylaw and each reading of the
bylaw must receive an affirmative vote of all members of Council;
NOW THEREFORE the Council of the Town of Oliver, in open meeting assembled, enacts as
follows:
1. The Town of Oliver Official Community Plan attached hereto as Schedule ‘A’ and Map
Schedules ‘B’, ‘C’, ‘D’, ‘E’, ‘F’, ‘G’ and ‘H’ forming part of this bylaw are adopted as the Town
of Oliver Official Community Plan.
2. The bylaw shall apply only to those lands shown outlined on Schedule ‘B’ (Official
Community Plan Map) forming part of this bylaw.
3. This bylaw may be cited for all purposes as the Town of Oliver Official Community Plan
Bylaw 1370.
4. The Town of Oliver Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1070, 2003, is repealed.
5. If any statement, section, sub-section, clause, sub-clause or phrase of this bylaw and the
Official Community Plan adopted by this bylaw is for any reason held to be invalid by a
decision of a court of competent jurisdiction, the decision shall not affect the validity of the
remaining portions of this bylaw and Official Community Plan.
READ A FIRST AND SECOND TIME on the 27th day of February, 2017.
PUBLIC HEARING held on the 13th day of March, 2017.
READ A THIRD TIME on the 13th day of March, 2017.
ADOPTED this 13th day of March, 2017.
“Original signed by Mayor” “Original signed by Corporate Officer”
Mayor Corporate Officer
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SCHEDULE ‘A’
Town of Oliver
Official Community Plan Bylaw 1370
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1. INTERPRETATION AND ADMINISTRATION
The provisions of this Plan apply to all lands and surface waters within the Town of Oliver
identified on Schedule ‘B’ (Official Community Plan Map) of this bylaw (the “Plan Area”).
1.1 Interpretation
An OCP means an Official Community Plan as referred to in the Local Government Act,
and as adopted by the Town of Oliver in accordance with the requirements of the Local
Government Act.
1.2 Administration
.1 This OCP comes into effect as of the date of adoption by the Town of Oliver.
.2 The Zoning Bylaw will be used to regulate development. All rezoning proposals must
be consistent with this OCP, which serves as a policy foundation for the Zoning
Bylaw.
.3 This OCP will be reviewed on a regular basis and, in order to ensure that the
document continues to accurately reflect the long-range planning objectives of the
Town of Oliver, the OCP should undergo a comprehensive review every seven to 10
years.
.4 The OCP can only encourage senior levels of government to take action; it cannot
force or require senior governments to act. Furthermore, although the OCP cannot
commit the Town of Oliver to specific expenditures, the Town of Oliver cannot
enact bylaws or undertake works that are not consistent with it without first
amending it.
.5 No one goal, objective or policy contained within this OCP should be read in
isolation from the others to imply a particular action or consequence.
1.3 Amending the Plan
An OCP is not a static document. Rather, it is intended to be adaptable to new trends
within society and responsive to changing circumstances within the community. As such,
following careful consideration by the Town of Oliver, policies and land use designations
in this OCP may be revised by an amending bylaw pursuant to provisions outlined within
the Local Government Act.
1.4 Development Approval Information
The Plan Area is a Development Approval Information Area, and the Town of Oliver may
require development approval information for a Zoning Bylaw amendment application,
Development Permit application, or Temporary Use Permit application.
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The objective in designating the Plan Area as a Development Approval Information Area
is to ensure that the Town of Oliver can obtain sufficient information from a proponent
to understand the anticipated impact of the proposed activity or development on the
community and to make a well informed decision regarding such applications. Where
deemed relevant, an applicant may be expected to provide information regarding:
.1 The impact of the proposed development on surrounding land uses and the
community generally.
.2 The consideration of public facilities such as schools, parkland, public spaces, and/or
amenities.
.3 The impact of the proposed development on groundwater quantity and quality,
surface water runoff generated by the proposed development, and the options for
collection, storage, and dispersal of such runoff.
.4 The impact of the proposed development on the natural environment such as
adjacent aquatic areas, vegetation, soils and erosion, geotechnical characteristics,
topographical features, ecosystems and biological diversity, fish and wildlife, fish
and wildlife habitat, Environmentally Sensitive Development Permit Areas,
Watercourse Development Permit Areas, and rare or endangered plant or animal
species.
.5 The impact of the proposed development on public infrastructure and community
services, such as water supply, sewer, fire protection, solid waste management and
recycling.
.6 The aesthetic values of the proposed development such as visual character,
integration with public areas and the natural environment, lighting, noise, and
odour.
.7 The impact of proposed development on traffic volumes and roads.
.8 How the proposed development provides buffers for any adjoining Agricultural Land
Reserve areas to ensure no negative impact is caused.
.9 Consideration of hazard area impacts, including steep slopes, flood prone areas and
wildfire interfaces areas.
1.5 Agriculture Land Reserve
In order for land in the Agriculture Land Reserve to be used in accordance with a land use
designation under this bylaw, a property owner must ensure that the proposed use complies
with the regulations applied by the Agriculture Land Commission.
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2. INTRODUCTION
2.1 Role, Purpose and Scope
An official community plan provides guidance and policies on a broad range of topics
including land-use, transportation, housing, parks and infrastructure.
Official community plans are developed through public consultation. The objectives and
policy statements within them should reflect the collective desires of the people within
the planning area. Local governments like the Town of Oliver then use official
community plans to help guide and support decision-making on many important
community matters including economic development, transportation, recreation,
environmental protection, and more. Official community plans also designate land for
specific purposes, like commercial office, retail, residential, park, and industrial. While
this OCP does not commit the Town of Oliver to proceed with any particular project,
subsequent bylaws and decisions by Council must be consistent with this OCP.
Municipalities in British Columbia are given the authority to adopt an official community
plan through the Local Government Act (LGA), which describes what must be included
an official community plan, what may optionally be included in it, and what steps need
to be followed for it to be adopted. The required content of an official community plan
is defined in Section 471 of the Act.
This OCP should be re-examined and updated every seven to 10 years to ensure that it
continues to reflect the long-range planning objectives of residents, local government
staff, and the Town of Oliver. Updates also ensure that it remains consistent with other
procedures, bylaws and government implementation tools.
The principle functions of this OCP are to:
.1 Establish goals, directions and broad development strategies to guide the future
growth of the Town of Oliver.
.2 Provide policy guidance for development, programs, municipal budgets, actions and
services.
.3 Provide a basis for coordinating land use decisions.
.4 Provide a basis for the amendment of land use regulations, such as the Zoning
Bylaw.
.5 Provide a general policy basis for assessing proposals for change or development not
currently anticipated.
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2.2 Planning Process
This OCP was developed over a period of twelve months, commencing in January 2016.
Development of the OCP included a substantial community outreach component, which
included two open houses, community surveys, project newsletters, a project webpage on
the Town of Oliver’s site where all information was posted for public review, regular email
updates, and meetings with community stakeholders and agencies throughout the process.
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3. COMMUNITY PROFILE
3.1 Location and Geography
The Town of Oliver is located in the southern Okanagan Valley, approximately 24 km
north of the Canada-U.S. border. Oliver is situated on the valley floor, and ranges in
elevation from approximately 296 metres above sea level (geodetic survey of Canada
datum) to approximately 345 metres above sea level.
Glacial features are typical in the valley bottom landscape, including kettles (large
depressions in the valley floor), and sorted and unsorted glacial deposits of clay, silt,
sand and gravel. Tuc-el-nuit Lake, in the northeast portion of the Town of Oliver, is one
of the kettles created by the glacial action.
Historically, the Okanagan River, which connects Vaseux Lake to Osoyoos Lake,
meandered through the valley bottom, creating oxbows. Although the river was
channelized in the 1950s, mainly as a flood control effort, many portions of the historic
oxbows remain, and currently exist as habitat for fish, wildlife and waterfowl. The
Okanagan River Channel bisects the community, flowing in a north-south direction.
3.2 Natural Environment
Town of Oliver is located within one of the three most endangered natural systems in
Canada. This area supports one of the country’s greatest concentrations of species
diversity, including plant, amphibian, reptile, bird and mammal species. The area is also
home to 23 species of plants and animals currently listed as nationally threatened,
endangered or vulnerable.
Town of Oliver’s landscape includes part of the “pocket desert” ecosystem of the
Southern Interior. This ecosystem contributes to the critical ecological corridor between
the dry ecosystems in the south and the arid grasslands to the north. Town of Oliver’s
connectivity with this ecological corridor contributes to the range of habitats and
diversity of wildlife and plant species, all within the narrow Okanagan Valley. For these
reasons, Town of Oliver is considered a biodiversity hotspot in British Columbia.
This area’s natural environment is important for supporting species that depend on
functioning ecosystems connected by corridors, and unstressed by unnatural
disturbances. Natural features also contribute to the built/urban environment in terms
of the character and charm of the community, and add to the quality of life that Town of
Oliver’s residents enjoy, including the natural viewscapes, wildlife observation, hiking
and other recreational activities.
Although the boundaries of the Town of Oliver are relatively compact, there are areas
within it that warrant special attention because of their extreme value to the
community and their environmental sensitivity. These areas include sensitive
ecosystems such as grasslands, rugged terrain and steep slopes, treed slopes, Tuc-el-nuit
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Lake, the Okanagan River and the numerous wetlands and riparian areas that exist
adjacent to the river channel.
3.3 History
Indigenous people lived in the Town of Oliver region for thousands of years prior to the
arrival of Europeans. The original people of the Okanagan are known as the Syilx
speaking people – the “Okanagans.” The Okanagans (Syilx) occupied an area that
extended over approximately 69,000 square kilometres. The northern area of this
territory is close to the area of Mica Creek, just north of Revelstoke, BC, and the eastern
boundary is Kootenay Lake. The southern boundary extends to the vicinity of Wilbur,
Washington and the western border extends into the Nicola Valley.
The Osoyoos Indian Band was formed in 1877. Today, their principal reserve stretches
from Town of Oliver to the Town of Osoyoos and is home to over 400 band members
living and working on the reserve.
The non-Indigenous history of the area dates back to 1821 with establishment of the
Hudson’s Bay Fur Brigade trail. The trail was a fur trading supply route through the
Okanagan Valley north to Kamloops. With the United States and Canada boundary
settlement in 1846, alternative trails were developed from Kamloops through the Fraser
Canyon to Fort Langley. The last brigade took the trail in 1847.
The first European activity in the Town of Oliver area was gold mining, with the staking of
the first claim occurring in 1887. Shortly thereafter, in 1890, the community of Fairview
was established on the bench lands west of Town of Oliver. Following the gold rush,
Fairview’s population declined. The Fairview post office closed in 1926, signaling the end
of the community.
In 1923, the Southern Okanagan Lands Project and the construction of an irrigation
canal were completed, irrigating land that was to be settled by soldiers returning from
the First World War. The project was sponsored by the provincial government of the
day, led by Premier John Oliver, after whom the community was named. The town site
of Town of Oliver was laid out in 1921 and it was during this time that agricultural
settlement of the area began in earnest. With the arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway
in the early 1920’s, Town of Oliver continued to grow as an agricultural service centre,
and in 1945 was incorporated as the Village of Oliver. After the Second World War, the
region experienced rapid growth with an influx of agricultural settlers including
European settlers of German and Portuguese origin.
Manufacturing followed the agricultural industry, with a sawmill and packinghouses
established in the 1930s and farm equipment plants in the 1960s. Agriculture remains
an important industry.
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3.4 Population and Demographics
The Town of Oliver’s population
was 4,824 in 2011 (Statistics
Canada), with an additional
4,000 people living in the
surrounding rural areas
(Electoral Area “C”). The most
recent estimate in 2015 (BC
Stats) indicates a population of
4,597. The trend prior to 2011
shows modest but steady
population growth between 1%
and 2%. Table 1 illustrates the
Town of Oliver’s growth over the decades. Some of the increases between 1986 and
1991 were due to the Town of Oliver’s boundary expansions.
Despite the flat or negative growth in the past five years, BC Stats projects a low growth
rate of 0.25% for the area 1 between 2015 and 2030, which would translate to a
population in the Town of Oliver of 4,831 people by 2030. With these trends and
projections in mind, the Town of Oliver could anticipate an annual population change of
between minus 1 percent and plus 1 percent, resulting in a population between 3,900
and 5,300 in 20 years. These projections do not include the possibility of a boundary
expansion.
Figure 1: Town of Oliver Historic Population Growth and Future Population Projections
1 BC Stats P.E.O.P.L.E. projections for both the School District and Local Health Area.
YEAR POPULATION Average annual
population change
1986 2,028
1991 3,825
1996 4,434 3.0%
2001 4,224 -1.0%
2006 4,395 0.8%
2011 4,824 1.9%
2015 4,597 -1.2%
Table 1: Town of Oliver Population, 1986-2011
5322
4831
4597
3941
1500
2500
3500
4500
5500
6500
7500
1986 1991 1996 2001 2006 2011 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035
1.00%
0.25%
-1.00%
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The age and gender distribution of the population is approximately 46.9% male, while
53.1% of the population is female. The most significant proportion of the population,
particularly in comparison to the number of residents aged 20-39, is aged between 45
and 74. This data suggests that the population of the Town of Oliver is aging, which is a
consistent trend across the province.
Compared to the province, the Town of Oliver has an older population. Its 2011 median
age is approximately 56.3, which is higher than the region (52.0) and significantly higher
than the provincial median age (42.7). The Town of Oliver has a significantly higher
percentage of residents aged 45-79 (52.5%) compared to the province (41.3%), and the
percentage of the population over the age of 65 is actually double the average for the
rest of the province. The percentage of the population between the ages of 15 and 45 is
significantly less than the average for the rest of the province.
Figure 2: Town of Oliver 2011 Population by Gender and Age Cohort
Figure: BC 2011 Population by Gender and Age Cohort
Figure 3: BC 2011 Population by Gender and Age Cohort
250 200 150 100 50 0 50 100 150 200
0-4
10-14
20-24
30-34
40-44
50-54
60-64
70-74
80-84
Thousands
Female
Male
300 250 200 150 100 50 0 50 100 150 200 250
0-4
10-14
20-24
30-34
40-44
50-54
60-64
70-74
80-84
Female
Male
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3.5 Household Size
On average, there were 2.1 persons per house in the Town of Oliver in 2011. In that year,
the majority of households were one-person (30%) and two-person households (46%).
The smaller household sizes are consistent with the older population in the area.
3.6 Housing Type
Homes and communities are a vital component of community quality of life. Thriving
and resilient towns include housing opportunities for people in all stages of life,
different family types, a range of financial situations, and for individuals and families
with special needs.
Two-thirds (66%) of housing in the Town of Oliver is single-detached homes. This is
followed by a smaller percentage of low-rise apartments (16%) and row houses (11%).
The figure below illustrates housing by type in the Town of Oliver.
Figure 4: Housing by Dwelling Type
3.7 Local Economy
Employment data for the Town of Oliver in 2011, provided here, should be considered
poor-quality due to a low response rate.2
2 Employment data was historically collected as part of the mandatory long-form census. In 2011, this data was collected as
part of the voluntary National Household Survey (NHS). Anywhere the non-response rate is above 50%, Statistics Canada
suppresses data due to quality concerns. In Oliver the response rate was below 50%. Statistics Canada notes both data quality
issues and comparability issues in comparing 2006 Census data to NHS data.
66%5%1%
11%
1%
16%Single-detached house
Movable dwelling
Semi-detached house
Row house
Apartment (duplex)
Apartment (fewer than 5 stories)
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From 2001 to 2011, the labour force participation rate in the Town of Oliver grew slightly
from 45% to 46.7%, while the participation rate in the RDOS remained steady near
53.5%. During this time the unemployment rate dropped from over 8% to 5.5% and
then rose again to almost 9% in 2011. The RDOS unemployment rate for the entire
region followed a similar pattern.
The table below illustrates the ten sectors with the highest employment in Oliver in
2011. Healthcare and social assistance is the largest sector representing 16% of total
employment. Accommodation and food services, retail, construction, and education all
follow this at around 10% each of total employment. Between 2001 and 2011,
accommodation and food service employment levels have remained steady, while the
other three industries have grown. Industries that have declining employment numbers
include transportation, warehousing, manufacturing, and agriculture.
Figure 5: Top sectors for employment in the Town of Oliver, 2001- 2011
The growth in Health care and social assistance typically tracks with an aging population,
a fact consistent between RDOS and the Town of Oliver.
The trends in the Town of Oliver are reflected in a similar pattern in the region. The shift
away from employment in agriculture and manufacturing and towards healthcare and
services is explained by the shift in an economy historically dominated by agricultural to
an economy based on lifestyle, amenities and services for an aging population.
It should be noted that tourism is a challenging sector to track as tourism-related
employment can fall under many categories (e.g. accommodation services, retail trade)
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
350
2001
2006
2011
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and can be impacted by other sectors or non-tourism related activity. The drop in
accommodation and food services suggest tourism declined during the period.
Figure 6: Employment by sector – RDOS, 2001- 2011
The Okanagan Correctional Centre, located on Osoyoos Indian Band reserve land north
of the Town of Oliver, will be a major future employer for the area. Completed in the fall
of 2016, the 29,000 square metre facility will create 240 full-time positions (the
equivalent of roughly 15% of all employment in the Town of Oliver in 2006) and
additional indirect and induced employment, the facility will likely provide a major boost
to the local economy.
0%
2%
4%
6%
8%
10%
12%
14%
Okanagan-Similkameen RD
2001
Okanagan-Similkameen RD
2006
Okanagan-Similkameen RD
2011
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4. COMMUNITY GOALS
The following broad community goals were established by the Town of Oliver as a
foundation for the growth management and land use policies that are outlined in this
OCP. The Town of Oliver will strive to achieve these goals through the implementation
of, or adherence to the policies outlined in this plan.
They are organized according to community priority, as determined through OCP
outreach and public engagement, which included a broad-based Community Survey.
4.1 Broad Community Goals
.1 Economic Development: Support and retain existing businesses, while encouraging
new businesses to locate in the Town of Oliver.
.2 Downtown Revitalization: Support and enhance Downtown Oliver as the
community’s commercial hub and activity centre.
.3 Sense of Place: Protect and enhance the Town of Oliver’s small town, rural
character.
.4 Natural environment: Steward and protect the Town of Oliver’s natural features and
systems, including sensitive and endangered grasslands and bluffs, Tuc-el-nuit Lake
and the Okanagan River.
.5 Residential Development and Housing: Encourage a diversity of housing options for
a range of incomes, lifestyles and age groups.
.6 Community Health and Wellbeing: Promote community health, active living and
recreation and support the area’s aging population.
.7 Water Resources: Protect and manage water resources, for residential and
agricultural uses and for ecosystem health and wellbeing.
.8 Agriculture: Protect the Town of Oliver’s agricultural legacy and maintain existing
agricultural operations and Agricultural Land Reserve lands within the Town.
.9 Infrastructure and Services: Maintain and enhance the Town of Oliver’s high quality
municipal infrastructure and services.
.10 Transportation: Maintain a safe and effective transportation system for all,
including pedestrians and cyclists.
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5. REGIONAL GROWTH STRATEGY
The South Okanagan Regional Growth Strategy (RGS) was developed between 2004 and
2010 as a collaborative effort between the local governments in the south Okanagan
(Town of Oliver, District of Summerland, Town of Osoyoos, City of Penticton, Regional
District of Okanagan-Similkameen). The RGS was officially adopted on April 1, 2010 and
was updated through a minor review process in 2016.
The purpose of the RGS is to ensure that growth and development in the south
Okanagan take place in a sustainable manner, recognizing that growth management
issues reach beyond the boundaries of individual local governments. To achieve this, the
RGS identifies broad goals across the region in an effort to meet common land use,
social, economic and environmental objectives.
As a requirement of the RGS implementation, each member municipality must include a
Regional Context Statement (RCS) in its official community plan. The Regional Context
Statement summarizes the relationship between the RGS and this OCP, and how any
inconsistencies identified will be resolved over time. Context statements form an
integral part of RGS implementation, ensuring that local government official community
plans are generally consistent with broader RGS objectives.
The RGS identifies seven key general policy areas with a guiding policy goal for each.
Each policy goal is supported by a range of more detailed objectives. These objectives
are, in turn, each supported by specific policy measures. The seven policy areas are:
.1 Housing and Development: Direct development to serviced areas in designated
Primary Growth Areas and Rural Growth Areas.
.2 Ecosystems, Natural Areas & Parks: Protect, steward and enhance the natural
environment and ecosystems across the region.
.3 Transportation and Infrastructure: Support efficient and effective infrastructure
services and an accessible multi-modal transportation network.
.4 Community Health and Wellbeing: Foster healthier, safer communities that provide
accessible recreational, educational and cultural opportunities.
.5 Local Economic Development: Achieve a sustainable, resilient and prosperous
South Okanagan regional economy.
.6 Engagement and Collaboration: Foster and support regional cooperation,
collaboration and civic engagement.
.7 Energy Emissions and Climate Change: Reduce energy emissions and ensure the
South Okanagan is prepared for a changing climate.
This OCP contains supportive and related policies in each of the seven RGS policy areas.
The table summarizes key OCP policy references for these RGS policy areas.
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
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The table is following by a map illustrating the Town of Oliver’s 2016 Growth
Containment Boundary.
Table 2: Regional Context Statement
South Okanagan RGS
Goals
South Okanagan RGS Objectives Supporting Policies
Town of Oliver OCP
HOUSING AND
DEVELOPMENT
Focus development to
serviced areas in
designated Primary
Growth Areas and Rural
Growth Areas.
Collaborate and coordinate among
regional partners to direct most new
development to Primary Growth
Areas.
6.4.1, 6.4.5
Create walkable, liveable, mixed-use
neighbourhoods and communities.
8.2.2, 9.2.1
Protect character of rural areas. 16.2.1, 16.2.2
Protect the agricultural land base. 6.4.3, 12.2.1, 12.2.2
Recognize the critical links between
social, environmental and economic
sustainability and infrastructure in
effective growth management.
21.2.18, 20.2.4
ECOSYSTEMS, NATURAL
AREAS AND PARKS
Protect the health and
biodiversity of
ecosystems in the south
Okanagan.
Coordinate regional biodiversity
conservation and management. 15.2.2, 15.2.3
Support environmental stewardship. 15.2.1
Protect regional air quality. 15.2.7, 15.2.8
Promote and enhance water
conservation and sustainability.
15.2.9, 15.2.10,
15.2.11
INFRASTRUCTURE AND
TRANSPORTATION
Support efficient and
effective infrastructure
services and an
accessible multi-modal
transportation network.
Direct development to areas with
publically operated services and
infrastructure.
8.2.1, 8.2.2
Reduce solid and liquid waste. 18.2.4
Minimize environmental impacts of
infrastructure and services.
18.2.1
Expand safe, accessible, efficient
transportation options and
connections, including transit, cycling
and walking.
8.2.4, 20.2.5, 20.2.8
Protect and improve Highway 97 as a
key transportation corridor.
22.2.3
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Table 2: South Okanagan RGS and Supporting OCP Policies (continued)
COMMUNITY HEALTH AND
WELLBEING
Foster healthy, safe
communities that
provide accessible
recreational,
educational and
cultural opportunities.
Support regional partnerships and
collaborate for safe, healthy and active
communities.
13.2.4, 20.2.3
Enhance community wellbeing by
supporting diversity.
20.2.12
Support regional arts and culture and
educational opportunities.
13.2.8, 13.2.9,
13.2.10, 13.2.14
REGIONAL ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
Achieve a sustainable,
resilient and
prosperous South
Okanagan regional
economy.
Coordinate and cooperate to support
regional economic diversification.
9.2.4, 21.2.1
Encourage business development in
employment lands areas.
9.2.3, 9.2.4
Support and promote tourism and
tourism-related activity.
17.2.14, 21.2.8
Support local agriculture and related
businesses.
21.2.12
ENGAGEMENT AND
COLLABORATION
Foster and support
regional cooperation,
collaboration and civic
engagement.
Enhance regional-local government
partnerships
6.4.5, 14.2.13
Build and enhance communications and
relationships with regional Syilx /
Okanagan Nation communities.
6.4.6
Facilitate ongoing participation and
engagement in local and regional
governance.
11.2.6, 20.2.16,
20.2.23
Cultivate effective, accountable,
accessible, and transparent
governance.
24.1, 24.3
ENERGY EMISSIONS AND
CLIMATE CHANGE
Reduce energy
emissions and ensure
the South Okanagan is
prepared for a
changing climate.
Plan for climate change adaptation and
support ongoing mitigation efforts.
19.2.1, 19.2.2,
19.2.3, 19.2.4
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Map 1: Town of Oliver Growth Containment Boundary (2016)
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
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6. GROWTH MANAGEMENT
6.1 Background
Growth Management is an important component of planning for the Town of Oliver’s
future. By anticipating future land use requirements, the Town of Oliver can allocate land
uses, determine the necessary intensity of land uses, and the consequent development
of infrastructure and amenities in a manner that is consistent with the community’s
vision and objectives.
The Town of Oliver is one of five designated “Primary Growth Areas” in the RGS. The
RGS identifies Primary Growth Areas specifically as having:
• Essential services and amenities in place to accommodate growth; and
• All necessary infrastructure in place.
Section 3.4 projects that the Town of Oliver could anticipate a growth rate of between
minus 1 and 1 percent, and a population between 3,900 and 5,300 in 20 years.
Anticipating the highest rate of growth within this range, and a continued average
household size of 2.1 persons per household, the 20-year demand for housing could be
345 units.
6.2 Capacity
Development capacity is estimated based on vacant developable properties and recent
subdivision and development proposals. There are several large projects such as Desert
Hills, the Forbes property, and a subdivision on Meadows drive that are unrealized but
indicate potential unit capacity.
The tables below indicate estimated residential capacity. There are no market
assumptions and there is no time horizon. The estimate assumes that every parcel will
eventually be built out to its maximum allowed unit capacity. Estimated unit yields per
parcel were based on current zoning for vacant or underdeveloped properties, or on
unit totals proposed by developers for major projects. Vacant properties were identified
as those with an assessed improvement value of $0. These were checked against recent
satellite imagery and physical and environmental constraints. Most of the vacant single
family parcels were found in the Tuc-el-nuit Residential subdivision.
Overall, the estimates show that there is capacity for 850 new residential units in the
Town of Oliver, including 285 single-family units. Of the single-family units, 70% are from
the proposed large projects, while the other 30% are residential infill on vacant lots.
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Table 3: Residential Development Capacity by Development Type
Residential Units
Vacant Single-family Lots (Infill in existing and recently subdivided
neighbourhoods)
82
Proposed Major Projects and Subdivisions, including single and
multifamily units
531
Other potential subdivisions or infill, including single and multifamily
units
237
Total 850
Table 4: Residential Development Capacity by Unit Type
Residential Units Percent of total
Single-family 285 33.5%
Multi-family 565 66.5%
Total 850 100.0%
6.3 Objectives
.1 Accommodate anticipated growth while maintaining the Town of Oliver’s small town
character and protecting its natural environment and land in the Agricultural Land
Reserve.
.2 Monitor residential, commercial and industrial land availability.
.3 Support efficient use of land within the Town of Oliver’s boundaries, including the
infilling of vacant lots and supporting medium and higher density development in
residential areas designated for such development.
.4 Ensure new development is consistent with this OCP’s broad goals and policies.
.5 Encourage new development that will have a positive impact on surrounding land
uses and natural areas.
6.4 Policies
The Town of Oliver:
.1 Will ensure that new development is consistent with the Urban Growth Boundary as
shown on Map 1: Town of Oliver Growth Containment Boundary (2016).
.2 Directs development away from designated hazard lands, environmentally sensitive
areas, and watercourses.
.3 Directs residential, commercial and industrial development away from the
Agricultural Land Reserve and lands designated Agriculture.
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
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.4 Supports increased residential development densities as shown on Schedule ‘B’
(Official Community Plan Map) to increase land utilization efficiency.
.5 Encourages collaboration and coordination with the Regional District of Okanagan-
Similkameen to plan land uses in Electoral Area “C” in a manner that will minimize
the development of residential and commercial areas, which may make demands
on the Town of Oliver’s servicing in the future.
.6 Encourages collaboration and coordination with the Okanagan Indian Band on
planning development in areas abutting the Town of Oliver/Okanagan Indian Band
reserve boundaries.
.7 Discourages the RDOS from approving linear commercial development along
Highway 97 south and north of the Town of Oliver.
.8 Monitor the Town of Oliver’s growth rate and associated demand for services to
ensure that sufficient services are maintained.
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7. OFFICIAL COMMUNITY PLAN MAP DESIGNATIONS
The future use and development of land within the Town of Oliver must be consistent
with the overall pattern of land use depicted on Schedule ‘B’ (Official Community Plan
Map), and based on the following land use designations:
Residential:
Low Density Residential LR
Medium Density Residential MR
High Density Residential HR
Town Centre:
Town Centre TC
Commercial:
Commercial Highway CH
Commercial Tourist CT
Industrial:
Industrial I
Agricultural:
Agriculture AG
Administrative, Institutional and Cultural:
Administrative, Institutional and Cultural AI
Parks, Recreation and Open Space P
The general types of uses encouraged in each land use designation are explained in
subsequent sections of this OCP.
The Town of Oliver recognizes that some existing land uses do not conform to the
designations shown on Schedule ‘B’ (Official Community Plan Map). The intent of the
Council is not to change the uses of this land in the immediate future but to illustrate
the preferred pattern of land use as redevelopment occurs while this OCP is in force.
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8. RESIDENTIAL
Residential areas are essential to the livability of a community. The homes, streets and
neighbourhoods provide the setting in which families are raised, neighbours socialize
with one another, and residents make significant financial investments. The quality of a
neighbourhood can have a profound impact on its residents and visitors, and can
influence perceptions and attitudes towards the community as a whole.
The Town of Oliver’s population in 2015 was approximately 4,600. This is a decline from
a 2011 population of 4,825, but regional and longer-term growth trends indicate that
the Town of Oliver’s population could grow to over 5,300 people in 20 years. This
potential population growth suggests a 20-year demand for 345 new residential units.
Current development proposals and land use policies indicate that the Town of Oliver’s
potential capacity for new housing exceeds this demand.
The Town of Oliver’s residential land uses include low, medium and high density
designations. Two-thirds of existing housing in the Town of Oliver is single-detached
homes (66%). Many indicators, especially our aging population and declining household
size, point to our need to continue to support a variety of housing types and sizes,
including townhomes and apartments where appropriate. Our residential land use
policies reflect this by encouraging higher density forms of housing such as secondary
suites and duplexes in single-family neighbourhoods, and townhomes and apartments in
medium and higher density residential areas.
Low Density Residential (LR): generally, includes single detached dwellings, duplexes,
and complementary uses such as daycares, preschools, parks and small-scale
neighbourhood commercial uses such as local convenience stores.
Medium Density Residential (MR): generally, includes townhouses and low-rise (two
to four storeys) apartment buildings, assisted living and special needs housing, and
complementary uses such as daycares, preschools, parks and small-scale
neighbourhood commercial uses such as local convenience stores.
High Density Residential (HR): generally, includes townhouses, apartment buildings,
assisted living and special needs housing, and complementary uses such as daycares,
preschools, parks and small-scale neighbourhood commercial uses such as local
convenience stores.
8.1 Objectives
.1 Provide for a variety of housing types and tenures to meet the socio-economic needs of
the community, including seniors and those with special housing needs.
.2 Facilitate the residential densification of the Town of Oliver’s designated Town
Centre and adjacent neighbourhoods.
.3 Encourage opportunities for affordable housing.
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
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.4 Minimize impacts from residential development on the natural environment.
.5 Maximize residential land use efficiency.
.6 Support appropriate home-based businesses in residential areas.
8.2 Policies
The Town of Oliver:
1. Prioritizes residential growth and infill within the Town of Oliver’s boundaries over
the expansion of services or extension of boundaries to include residential growth
beyond its boundaries.
2. Encourages higher density forms of development to maximize land use and
servicing efficiencies. Suitable locations for higher density development are
indicated in the Schedule ‘B’ (Official Community Plan Map).
3. Recognizes the need to retain land for multi-family development in centrally located
areas where services are readily accessible, as this is an important element of
housing affordability, and to accommodate demographic changes.
4. Encourages and supports affordable housing strategies, including provision for
secondary suites and carriage houses in residential areas.
5. Encourages the design of new compact residential areas that incorporate walkway
systems linking residential areas and providing ready pedestrian access to
neighbourhood facilities, parks and public open lands.
6. Requires dedication for public walkways and trails as part of the residential
subdivision process, with a priority on providing public access to both sides of the
river dyke and to Tuc-el-nuit Lake.
7. Requires that all new residences be connected to the Town of Oliver sanitary sewer,
municipal water, and other utilities in accordance with the Town’s Subdivision and
Development Servicing Bylaw.
8. Supports community gardens in all residential designations.
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8.3 Policies – Low Density Residential (LR)
The Town of Oliver:
.1 Supports the use of lands designated Low Density Residential (LR) identified in
Schedule ‘B’ (Official Community Plan Map) for single-family dwellings, duplexes,
secondary suites and carriage homes, accessory structures, manufactured homes,
parks, institutional buildings, and neighbourhood commercial uses.
.2 Establishes maximum net density for detached primary residences in Low Density
Residential (LR) areas to be 30 units per hectare. The calculation of net density does
not include carriage houses and secondary suites, roads, right of ways, or parks.
.3 Establishes maximum net density for attached primary residences (duplexes) in Low
Density Residential (LR) areas to be 45 units per hectare. The calculation of net
density does not include carriage houses and secondary suites, roads, right of ways,
or parks.
.4 Supports Low Density Residential (LR) areas to include home
occupations, bed and breakfast operations and vacation rentals
provided the operation does not have an unacceptable negative
impact on surrounding homes.
.5 Supports Low Density Residential (LR) areas to include CSA A277 compliant
manufactured homes that are situated on permanent foundations.
.6 Supports creative approaches, including the introduction of townhouses, along Tuc-
el-nuit Lake in addition to the land uses in Policy 8.3.1, providing the maximum net
density for Low Density Residential (LR) designation is not exceeded.
.7 Supports churches and other places of worship zoned Administrative and
Institutional (AI) in areas designated Low Density Residential (LR).
8.4 Policies – Medium Density Residential (MR)
The Town of Oliver:
.1 Supports the use of lands designated Medium Density Residential (MR) identified in
Schedule ‘B’ (Official Community Plan Map) for townhomes and other ground-
oriented attached housing types, low-rise apartment buildings, accessory
structures, parks, institutional buildings, and neighbourhood commercial uses.
.2 Establishes a maximum net density in Medium Density Residential (MR) areas to be
50 units per hectare. The calculation of net density does not include carriage houses
and secondary suites, roads, right of ways, or parks.
.3 Establishes a minimum net density in Medium Density Residential (MR) areas to be
30 units per hectare. The calculation of net density does not include carriage houses
and secondary suites, roads, right of ways, or parks.
Amended by Bylaw 1370.04
Adopted July 9, 2018
Amended by 1370.02
Adopted November 25, 2019
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
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.4 Requires a high standard of architectural building design and landscaping for
medium density residential development by including lands designated as Medium
Density Residential (MR) in the Multi-Family Development Permit Area.
.5 Encourages affordable, community care housing, seniors housing, and special needs
housing in Medium Density Residential (MR) areas.
.6 Supports the protection of existing Medium Density Residential (MR) designated
lands from redevelopment proposals seeking to rezone to lower density residential
development.
.7 Supports churches and other places of worship zoned Administrative and
Institutional (AI) in areas designated Medium Density Residential (MR).
8.5 Policies – High-Density Residential (HR)
The Town of Oliver:
.1 Supports the use of lands designated High Density Residential (HR) identified in
Schedule ‘B’ (Official Community Plan Map) for townhomes and apartment
buildings, accessory structures, parks, and neighbourhood commercial uses.
.2 Establishes a maximum net density in High Density Residential (HR) areas to be 80
units per hectare. The calculation of net density does not include carriage houses
and secondary suites, roads, right of ways, or parks.
.3 Establishes a minimum net density in High Density Residential (HR) areas to be 40
units per hectare. The calculation of net density does not include carriage houses
and secondary suites, roads, right of ways, or parks.
.4 Directs high density residential development in the designated Town Centre,
provided that commercial uses are provided on the ground floor.
.5 Supports high density residential development to areas surrounding the Town
Centre including east of the Okanagan River.
.6 Requires a high standard of architectural building design and landscaping for high
density residential development by including lands designated High Density
Residential (HR) in the Multi-Family Development Permit Area.
.7 Encourages the provision of affordable, community care housing, seniors housing,
and special needs housing in areas designated High Density Residential (HR).
.8 Supports the protection of existing High Density Residential (HR) designated lands
from redevelopment proposals seeking to rezone to lower density residential
development.
Amended by Bylaw 1370.04
Adopted July 9, 2018
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
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9. TOWN CENTRE
Town Centre, or Downtown as it is commonly referred to, is a relatively diverse, mixed-
use centre that is highly valued by residents and serves as an important business and
service centre. The area accommodates a broad range of commercial and institutional
uses with some residential uses. It includes a number of heritage storefronts from the
1920s, the only movie theatre outside of Penticton in the larger South Okanagan region,
and a pedestrian-friendly public realm that the Town of Oliver has worked to improve
over the past several years.
The area includes Kootenay Street and Main Street (Highway 97) between Veterans
Avenue and Co-op Avenue. The Town Centre area extends to the Okanagan River
Channel and includes the full extent of Station Street from Main Street to Fairview Road,
the east side of Main Street between Hillcrest and Veterans Avenues, and a small
number of parcels on the south east corner where Fairview Road, Station Street, and
School Avenue meet.
Along Main Street, the Town Centre area includes a wide range of pedestrian-oriented
retail, offices, service, entertainment, food and beverage, accommodation, and some
upper-floor residential above commercial. Institutional uses can be found along and
around Fairview Road, including Oliver Town Hall and the Town Office, the Court
Building, Archives, and Post Office. There are some single-family residential homes along
Kootenay Street and Fairview Road. The former “Wine Village Core” includes existing
commercial uses, a branch of the Okanagan Regional Library, and the Visitors Centre,
which is located in the former Kettle Valley Railroad train station that gives Station
Street its name.
The area includes a significant number of vacant and underutilized properties, including
vacant properties and buildings along Main Street (Highway 97), Kootenay Street,
Station Street and Fairview Road. Station Street, in particular, includes multiple empty
lots.
Public engagement conducted as part of the OCP update process confirmed that
Downtown Oliver is a highly valued community place, but also an area that residents
and business owners would like to see improved and revitalized. In the minds of many,
Downtown is the heart of the Town of Oliver.
In the summer of 2000, the Oliver and District Community Economic Development
Society adopted the ‘Wine Capital of Canada’ as the organization’s branding for
community development and marketing purposes, and in February of 2001, the Town of
Oliver publicly declared itself the Wine Capital of Canada.
Many aspects of the Wine Village vision remain intact, including the gradual expansion
of the Town Centre eastwards to strengthen connections to the Okanagan River and
develop a pedestrian-friendly, mixed-use area. Many policies and objectives of the
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
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original Wine Village Core Area Concept Plan remain relevant and are included in the
Town Centre policies.
9.1 Objectives
.1 Revitalize Downtown and reinforce its role as the commercial, institutional and
social heart of the community.
.2 Retain existing business and institutional uses, while supporting their expansion and
attracting additional cultural, entertainment, and commercial development to the
area.
.3 Support additional mixed-use, commercial/office/residential uses, including
development that includes multi-family uses.
.4 Encourage the integration of multi-family residential uses above ground floor
commercial uses.
.5 Supports the strategic, coordinated and gradual expansion of mixed-use commercial
– residential or high density residential development along Station Street.
.6 Support opportunities to enhance the Town of Oliver’s image as the “Wine Capital
of Canada”.
9.2 Policies
The Town of Oliver:
.1 Supports the use of lands designated Town Centre (TC) identified in Schedule ‘B’
(Official Community Plan Map) for pedestrian oriented, mixed-use retail, office,
food and beverage, tourist commercial, and medium and high density multi-family
residential, primarily above commercial uses.
.2 Supports multi-family residential development along Main Street provided the
ground floor uses are retail, office, food and beverage, or tourist commercial, and
the total number of storeys does not exceed four.
.3 Encourages the continued intensification and growth of commercial activities in the
Town Centre.
.4 Will collaborate and coordinate with stakeholders and business groups, including
the South Okanagan Chamber of Commerce, landowners, residents, and the
development community, to explore opportunities for Town Centre revitalization
and development.
.5 Requires a high standard of architectural building design and landscaping for
commercial development within the Town Centre by designating this area as the
Town Centre Development Permit Area.
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.6 Supports initiatives that will retain the Town Centre as a compact, well-defined and
pedestrian oriented area with accessible connections between parking areas and
retail establishments, and between the Town Centre and the Okanagan River and
potential future river development.
.7 Continues to identify opportunities to provide additional and convenient off-street
parking facilities within walking distance of the Town Centre area to support
commercial activities.
.8 Will continue initiatives to support broader “Wine Village” goals of developing a
pedestrian-friendly, mixed-use area, featuring hotel, commercial and residential
uses along Station Street with clear connections to both Main Street and the
Okanagan River.
.9 Supports ongoing Town Centre beautification and public realm initiatives to support
Town Centre revitalization, improve accessibility and mobility for all visitors and
shoppers, develop Town Centre entrance features, and enhance landscaping.
.10 Supports the creation and development of public art in the Town Centre.
.11 Supports commercial uses and public events along Town Centre alleyways.
.12 Continue to work with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure to manage
traffic along Highway #97 in the Town Centre area.
.13 Will leverage the Town of Oliver’s ownership of commercial properties as a catalyst
to assist in meeting the Town Centre objectives.
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10. COMMERCIAL
Commercial areas outside the Town Centre consist of a broad mix of land uses that
serve both local residents and visitors to the Town of Oliver. These commercial areas
provide an important contribution to the local economy. They consist of the three
following commercial groupings.
• Highway 97 Commercial Corridor (designated Commercial Highway) contains a
mixture of uses including highway commercial, service commercial, business offices,
shopping malls, and tourist commercial. The corridor is interspersed with single and
multiple family residential developments. The area extends along Main Street
(Highway 97) from Hillcrest Avenue on the northern edge of the Town of Oliver to
Road 1 at the southern edge of the Town of Oliver and, to a limited extent, on
adjacent side streets as well as north of the Town Centre on Highway 97.
• Tourist Commercial Areas (designated Commercial Tourist) include the
accommodation facilities that currently exist on the north and south sides of Tuc-el-
nuit Lake, as well as lands adjacent to Highway 97 near the south entrance to the
community, as well as an undeveloped area in the southwest corner of the Town of
Oliver.
The OCP includes two commercial land use designations outside of the mixed-use
commercial-residential Town Centre area. These two areas, as described above,
accommodate the remainder of the Town of Oliver’s commercial trade and commerce
as well as destinations for tourists and other visitors.
Land designated Commercial Highway (CH) applies to suitable lands north and south of
the Town Centre along and in close proximity to Highway 97.
Land designated Commercial Tourist (CT) applies to sites along the shoreline of Tuc-el-
nuit Lake and Highway 97 and other locations with distinctly suitable attributes.
10.1 Objectives
.1 Support a vibrant local economy by encouraging a wide range of commercial uses
for both residents and visitors.
.2 Establish and maintain accessible, pedestrian-friendly streetscapes along the the
Town of Oliver’s commercial corridors.
.3 Support accessible, pedestrian-friendly commercial development.
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10.2 Policies – Commercial Highway (CH)
The Town of Oliver:
.1 Supports the use of lands designated Commercial Highway (CH) identified in
Schedule ‘B’ (Official Community Plan Map) for gas stations, other automobile
oriented products and services, as well as a wide range of retail, office, institutional,
service commercial, social and cultural activities, shopping centers, commercial
entertainment and recreation, food and beverage, and accommodation facilities.
This land use designation may also accommodate multi-family residential uses
above the ground floor commercial uses.
.2 Will strive to ensure that all development within the Commercial Highway (CH)
designation provides for good traffic circulation patterns, and entrance and exit
points that do not conflict with adjoining traffic flows.
.3 Encourages commercial development oriented to highway traffic and/or tourist
markets to be located along Highway 97 or with direct visibility and convenient
access to Highway 97.
.4 Will work with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure to help ensure safe
access and egress for areas fronting Highway 97.
.5 Encourages accessible, pedestrian-friendly commercial development.
.6 Encourages secure bike parking in new commercial developments including along
sidewalks provided pedestrian movement is not restricted.
.7 Designates a Commercial Development Permit Area for the purposes achieving a
high standard of architectural building design and landscaping for commercial areas.
.8 Encourages developers to incorporate energy conservation features and green
building, site design and construction standards, such as Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design (LEED).
10.3 Policies – Commercial Tourist (CT)
The Town of Oliver:
.1 Supports the use of lands designated Commercial Tourist (CT) identified in Schedule
‘B’ (Official Community Plan Map) for hotels, motels, recreational vehicle
accommodation, food and beverage, recreation and entertainment uses for both
visitors and residents.
.2 The Town of Oliver encourages innovative tourist and visitor oriented uses on lands
designated Commercial Tourist (CT) that will enhance the Town of Oliver’s
reputation as a sport, leisure and recreation community.
.3 Discourages the designation of new commercial lands prior to the development of
vacant commercial lands and the redevelopment of underutilized commercial lands.
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.4 Designates a Commercial Development Permit Area for the purposes achieving a
high standard of architectural building design and landscaping for commercial areas.
.5 Encourages developers to incorporate energy conservation features and green
building, site design and construction standards, such as Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design (LEED).
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11. INDUSTRIAL
The Town of Oliver has a diverse light industrial base that includes agricultural product
packaging and processing, manufacturing and assembly, industrial and commercial
machining, and automotive services. The Town of Oliver supports and encourages
growth in the industrial sector and is supportive of industry that recognizes the
importance of a healthy environment.
The Town of Oliver’s light industrial and manufacturing activity is limited to an area in
the southeast portion of the community, along Sawmill Road and Co-op Avenue. The
existing light industrial / manufacturing area is bounded by the Okanagan River Channel
to the east, the Town of Oliver boundary to the south, the airport to the west, and by
other urban uses to the north. As such, there are limited opportunities for industrial
expansion within the Town of Oliver’s Boundaries, but potential for industrial
development on underutilized and vacant land.
This land use includes the airport lands, including the vacant lands adjacent to the
airstrip. These lands are owned by the Town of Oliver but are restricted to airport-
related uses.
The recent development of an industrial park near Gallagher Lake by the Okanagan
Indian Band is providing additional industrial capacity within the greater area.
11.1 Objectives
.1 Support the retention and expansion of existing light industrial and manufacturing
activity in the Town of Oliver.
.2 Ensure an adequate supply of industrial land to meet anticipated needs through the
efficient use of underutilized and vacant light industrial land.
.3 Encourage and attract new “clean and green” light industrial and manufacturing
businesses.
.4 Minimize conflicts between industrial and non-industrial uses through effective land
use planning, including setbacks, fencing and landscaping.
.5 Maintain the Town of Oliver Airport lands for airport related uses.
11.2 Policies
The Town of Oliver:
.1 Supports the use of lands designated Industrial (I) identified in Schedule ‘B’ (Official
Community Plan Map) for light manufacturing; warehousing, wholesaling and
storage; processing, packaging and assembly; service and repair of industrial
equipment; general service and repair; building and garden supplies; utilities and
public works; abattoirs; saw mills; concrete ready-mix plants; and high technology
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businesses. Other uses include offices and showrooms for building trades, building
material sales, and commercial business services.
.2 Encourages existing industries to remain and expand in the Town of Oliver.
.3 Will not consider heavy industrial uses, such as asphalt plants or gravel crushing
operations, in the Town of Oliver.
.4 Will preserve the industrial land base.
.5 Work with the RDOS to encourage sustainable industrial development to the Town
of Oliver’s light industrial area, where municipal infrastructure and appropriate
support services can be provided.
.6 Limit retail and/or other non-industrial activity on industrial lands in order to
support the development of the Town Centre.
.7 Maintain the Town of Oliver’s airport for airport related uses only.
.8 Supports the upgrading of the airport lands and recognizes they must be used for
airport related purposes.
.9 Develop an airport industrial zone for the Zoning Bylaw.
.10 Will not support rezoning for new industrial uses that conflict with adjacent land
uses or are detrimental to the environment.
.11 Will enhance industrial lands by upgrading infrastructure and services in
conjunction with the affected property owners.
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12. AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SYSTEMS
The Town of Oliver is situated within a rural area that is predominantly agricultural.
Within the Town of Oliver, there are three distinct areas that are currently used for
agricultural purposes: west of Tuc-el-nuit Lake, south of the South Okanagan General
Hospital and in the south-west portion of the Town.
Existing agricultural areas consist mainly of orchards and vineyards. They also include
agri-tourism and other secondary uses that contribute to the viability of the agricultural
sector. While the direct agricultural economic benefit from agricultural lands within the
Town of Oliver is relatively modest, the Town of Oliver obtains a tremendous benefit
from the surrounding agricultural community and the processing of agricultural
products. The Okanagan Similkameen Growers Association packinghouse is one of three
major facilities operated by the Cooperative. The packinghouse processes a large
amount of fruit from the south Okanagan. The region’s thriving viticulture and the wine
industry is also a vital component of the Town of Oliver’s economic wellbeing and the
basis of the Town of Oliver’s branding as “The Wine Capital of Canada.”
12.1 Objectives
.1 Protect land within the ALR for existing and future agricultural purposes.
.2 Recognize the economic contribution of the Town of Oliver’s agricultural sector and
encourage its improvement.
.3 Encourage traditional and non-traditional viticulture and urban agricultural
opportunities within the Town of Oliver.
.4 Support education and awareness of local food systems and food security.
.5 Minimize conflicts between agricultural and non-agricultural uses.
12.2 Policies
The Town of Oliver:
.1 Supports the use of lands designated Agriculture (A) identified in Schedule ‘B’
(Official Community Plan Map) for farming operations, cultivation of orchards and
crops, rotating fallow land, agri-tourism operations and other secondary uses which
complement agriculture and do not negatively affect agricultural land.
.2 Supports the Agriculture Land Commission in its efforts to protect and enhance
farmland.
.3 Will evaluate new developments in respect to their implications and impacts on the
agriculture uses and potential of the area.
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.4 Encourages new development abutting lands designated as Agriculture to provide
and maintain a distinct buffer in the form of setbacks, fencing or landscaping that is
consistent with the Ministry of Agriculture Guidelines and/or take advantage of
naturally occurring buffers, such as roads, topographic features, watercourses and
transitional land uses.
.5 Supports second dwellings within the ALR where they are used to support
agricultural activities and purposes (e.g., workers’ housing).
.6 Encourages economic development initiatives that support traditional and non-
traditional agriculture activities, including urban agriculture where appropriate.
.7 Continues to support viticulture and the wine industry by collaborating with the
local wine industry to promote the Town of Oliver at the regional, national and
international levels.
.8 Continues to support agri-tourism activities and secondary uses that contribute to
the economic viability of farm operations, including:
a) an agricultural heritage exhibit displayed on the farm;
b) a tour of the farm, an educational activity or demonstration in respect of all or
part of the farming operations that take place on the farm, and activities
ancillary to any of these;
c) cart, sleigh and tractor rides on the land comprising the farm;
d) harvest festivals and other seasonal events held at the farm for promoting or
marketing farm products produced on the farm; and
e) small-scale weddings and receptions.
f) vacation rentals and bed and breakfast operations.
.9 Supports measures to reduce agricultural/residential conflicts through
communication, aimed at helping urban residents better understand
the requirements of farm operations, and helping farm operations use
different methods that may create fewer conflicts.
.10 Will review the recommendations from Food Secure Oliver, a long-range plan for
increasing food security in the Town of Oliver and Electoral Area “C” (estimated
completion early 2018).
.11 Encourages urban agriculture including community gardens, a farmers’ market, and
accessory uses where agriculture is not a principal use.
.12 Recognizes that urban agriculture includes community gardens, school gardens,
entrepreneurial gardens, demonstration gardens, edible landscapes, urban fruit
trees, roof top gardens and personal backyard/balcony gardens.
.13 Recognizes climate change will impact the region and encourage stakeholders to
continue adaptation actions.
Amended by 1370.02
Adopted November 25, 2019
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Map 2: Oliver Agricultural Land Reserve Area (2016)
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13. ADMINISTRATIVE, INSTITUTIONAL AND CULTURAL
The Town of Oliver houses a number of administrative, institutional and cultural
facilities used by residents, the larger region and visitors.
Educational Facilities: Elementary and Secondary school education is delivered by
School District #53 (Okanagan Similkameen). Currently the School District operates two
elementary schools at Oliver Elementary and Tuc-el-nuit Elementary, offering instruction
from kindergarten to grade 7. Oliver Elementary has a capacity of 425 students and Tuc-
el-nuit Elementary has a capacity of 250 students. The Southern Okanagan Secondary
School offers instruction from grades 8 to 12 with a capacity of 700 students.
Historic enrolment data indicate the Town of Oliver’s two elementary schools fluctuated
between 500 and 545 students from 2010 to 2015. During that same time period,
secondary enrolment declined steadily from 489 to 445 students. Projected enrolment
over the next decade shows significant fluctuations but an overall trend with a modest
decline of approximately 7% for both elementary and secondary students. This is based
on births from Interior Health and could change depending on in migration patterns.
The School District has indicated that at this time there are no plans for acquisition of
land for future schools.
Administrative Facilities: In addition to the Town of Oliver’s two buildings (Town Hall
and Town Offices), the Town of Oliver’s other principal administrative facility includes
School District #53 offices.
Cultural Facilities: Cultural facilities include the Regional Library, Museum and Archives,
and the region-serving Frank Venables Theatre.
Institutional Facilities: Institutional facilities include both health and emergency
services. The Town of Oliver is within the Oliver/Osoyoos Health Region, which forms
part of the Okanagan Health Service Area of the Interior Health Authority (IHA). IHA
operates several health facilities in the Town of Oliver including the South Okanagan
General Hospital, McKinney Place extended care facility, the Sunnybank retirement
facility, and the Oliver Public Health Office. There are also a few privately owned,
government subsidized seniors and assisted living facilities in the Town of Oliver.
The Town of Oliver operates a predominantly volunteer Fire and Rescue Service with a
modern facility (2001). The Oliver Fire and Rescue service building is located at 369
Similkameen Avenue at the north end of the Oliver Airport. Fire services are also
provided to the Osoyoos Indian Band and to the Oliver Fire Protection District (in rural
Oliver) on a fee-for service basis.
The RCMP provides the Town of Oliver’s police protection. The South Okanagan
detachment is located at 425 Similkameen Avenue, one block east of Highway 97 and
across the street from the Oliver Fire and Rescue service building.
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The B.C. Ambulance Service provides ambulance service in the Town of Oliver. It is
centrally located in the Town Centre at 6070 Station Street.
Oliver and Osoyoos Search and Rescue (SAR) is one of 80 Search and Rescue groups in
B.C. The non-profit organization has approximately 30 unpaid professional volunteers
maintained and coordinated by the Provincial Emergency Program. The Oliver SAR is
located at 6878 Cessna Street on the east side of the Oliver Airport and its response area
includes the South Okanagan region.
13.1 Objectives
.1 Enhance existing administrative, institutional and cultural assets.
.2 Ensure institutional land uses are located where they can best serve the needs of
residents.
.3 Work cooperatively with partners, including the Oliver and District Heritage Society
to identify and enhance the Town of Oliver’s heritage assets.
.4 Work cooperatively with partners, including the Oliver Arts Council, to further
develop and enhance the artistic and cultural fabric of the community.
.5 Seek opportunities to work with the Osoyoos Indian Band and other Okanagan Nation
Alliance members to recognize, protect and, where appropriate and feasible, interpret
important cultural sites and features in the Town of Oliver.
13.2 Policies
The Town of Oliver:
.1 Supports the use of lands designated Administrative, Institutional and Cultural (AIC)
identified in Schedule ‘B’ (Official Community Plan Map) for public, non-profit or
utility uses such as schools, colleges, churches, hospitals, public health facilities,
community care housing, special needs housing, government buildings, and some
municipal buildings and utility structures. For profit institutional uses, such as
assisted living facility and community care facilities are also supported in this
designation.
.2 Supports joint use of existing school facilities for broader community use.
.3 Supports Interior Health Authority and other partners and stakeholders developing
a range of health services required to address the physical and psychological health
needs of Oliver residents.
.4 Will work with the Interior Health Authority and private care providers to identify
lands suitable for the development of assisted living and supportive housing
opportunities.
.5 Will work with the RCMP and other stakeholders on crime prevention awareness,
including the RCMP’s “Crime Stoppers” initiative.
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.6 Supports the siting of the Oliver RCMP detachment within the Town of Oliver to
allow for the quick and effective delivery of police services.
.7 Will research options to relocate municipal offices to Town-owned land on Main
Street to help consolidate and improve services and access to them.
.8 Will continue to support the Oliver Arts Council in their efforts in promoting and
enhancing arts and culture within the Town of Oliver.
.9 Will work with the arts and cultural community to continue to cultivate the Town of
Oliver’s artistic character by supporting artwork and performances in public places.
.10 Encourages the Oliver Arts Council and cultural stakeholders to define a strategy to
introduce exciting, interesting and innovative arts, entertainment and cultural
expressions within the Town of Oliver’s downtown.
.11 Supports existing cultural facilities and organizations, and encourages multi-cultural
activities and festivals that promote or foster multi-cultural understanding.
.12 Continue to explore the concept of providing an outdoor arts performance facility
in, or in close proximity to the Town Centre.
.13 Continue to support the Oliver and District Heritage Society and their efforts to
protect, steward and interpret the Town of Oliver’s history.
.14 Continue to participate with the RDOS to provide annual funding to the Oliver and
District Heritage Society.
.15 Supports and encourages community events.
.16 Supports the preparation of an inventory of heritage buildings and sites within the
Town of Oliver.
.17 Supports the preservation and enhancement of buildings and sites that have
historical significance.
.18 Recognizes and celebrates the rich Syilx/Okanagan cultural and cultural features
that exist in and around Oliver.
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14. PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE
The Town of Oliver has a wide range of indoor and outdoor parks and recreation
facilities. Most facilities are centrally located in Oliver Community Park, adjacent to the
hike and bike paths along the Okanagan River dike. Outdoor facilities at the park consist
of five multi-use fields, a tennis court, a sand volleyball court, a lawn bowling facility, a
basketball court, and an outdoor swimming pool. Indoor facilities at the Oliver
Community Centre, curling centre, hockey rink provide for a range of organized
recreational programming. Lions Park has outdoor fitness equipment and a skateboard
park. The Town of Oliver also maintains Rotary Beach, on the south-west shore of Tuc-
el-nuit Lake. Local schools also provide three sports fields and two playgrounds.
The Town of Oliver also boasts a paved multiuse pathway that passes through the
community on the west side of the Okanagan River Flood Protection Dyke. The path is a
portion of a larger hiking and cycling path that extends from the McAlpine Bridge,
approximately 5 km north of the Town of Oliver, to the north end of Osoyoos Lake
approximately 15 km south of Oliver. There is also a 2.4 km paved path on the eastside
of the Flood Protection Dyke from Drop Structure 13 south to Drop Structure 11.
14.1 Objectives
.1 Provide and maintain a mix of accessible parks, recreation and open space
opportunities sufficient to meet the needs of the Town of Oliver’s residents, within
their ability and resources to pay for such facilities.
.2 Promote the development of an integrated and accessible parks, trails and open
space network with connections to other important destinations, including schools
and the Town Centre, and trails and open space in Electoral Area “C”.
.3 Improve and maintain public access to park and recreation resources.
.4 Enhance and expand indoor and outdoor recreational facilities and areas in the
Town of Oliver when and where required.
.5 Utilize existing and future parks trail systems as alternative modes of travel and
movement throughout the community.
14.2 Policies
The Town of Oliver:
.1 Supports the use of lands designated Parks, Recreation and Open Space (P)
identified in Schedule ‘B’ (Official Community Plan Map) for community social and
recreation facilities and features.
.2 Supports and will work with the Oliver Parks and Recreation Society in
implementing the Park Improvement Plan (2015).
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.3 Supports and will work with the Oliver Parks and Recreation Society in maintaining
the level of park space recommended in the Park Improvement Plan (2015).
.4 Will work with the Oliver Parks and Recreation Society and other stakeholders to
develop a new Parks and Trails Master Plan to set direction and priorities for
community parks and trails in Oliver over the next 10 to 20 years.
.5 Continue working with the Oliver Parks and Recreation Society in providing
recreation facilities and opportunities for residents and visitors of all ages.
.6 Supports the stewardship, enhancement and interpretation of important environmental
features and areas in the Town of Oliver’s parks, open space and recreation areas.
.7 Encourages and facilitates the provision of recreation opportunities and facilities by
sports groups, service clubs, cultural groups and other community groups.
.8 Will continue to cooperate with School District #53 in sharing the use of school and
public recreation facilities.
.9 Encourages the development of private recreation facilities.
.10 Continue to collaborate with the Oliver Parks and Recreation Society to monitor the
use and space in the Oliver Community Centre.
.11 Continue to work with service clubs and other organizations to provide public
washrooms and other facilities within parks.
.12 Supports consultations with the Osoyoos Indian Band and other Okanagan Nation
Alliance members in all processes related to establishing parks, recreation areas and
trails.
.13 Supports and will work with the Oliver Parks and Recreation Society, the RDOS and
other partners in implementing the Oliver and Area Trail Master Plan (2009),
including trail connections to Electoral Area “C”.
.14 Designate public lands that are undevelopable due to flood plain, topography, or
natural or ecological features as Parks, Recreation and Open Space, and may be
developed with recreation infrastructure including trails.
.15 Shall levy Development Cost Charges for parks against new development to assist in
offsetting the cost of parkland acquisition and development.
.16 Ensure major trail and greenway linkages are accessible for all, including
wheelchairs and motorized scooters wherever feasible and appropriate.
.17 Supports the improvement and enhancement of existing public access points on
Tuc-el-nuit Lake.
.18 Supports the identification and development of additional public waterfront
accesses on Tuc-el-nuit Lake and the Okanagan River Channel.
.19 Supports planning for enhanced trail linkages between Tuc-el-nuit Lake and the
Okanagan River Hike and Bike Trail.
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.20 Recognizes the River Channel walkway as an important component of the
community’s recreation infrastructure, and as such, the Town of Oliver will continue
to encourage ongoing improvement and enhancement of the walkway.
.21 Supports development of public access points to the River Channel Walkway
through gradual right-of-way acquisitions and through dedication at the time of
subdivision.
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15. ENVIRONMENT AND CONSERVATION
The South Okanagan-Similkameen is recognized as a region that combines a wide range
of natural habitat areas with a large number of unique species, many of which are not
found elsewhere in the province or in Canada. The Town of Oliver area is also home to
one of the largest concentrations of endangered and threatened species of plants and
animals in BC and Canada. The variety of life (also called biodiversity) is very high in the
South Okanagan-Similkameen because of the region’s milder climates and diversity of
landscapes. Species at risk are linked to human settlement areas and land use. The Plan
Area contains significant developed areas and land uses like agriculture, as well as
Critical Habitat for several species at risk including Lewis’s Woodpecker (a threatened
bird), Yellow-breasted Chat (an endangered bird) and Behr’s Hairstreak (an endangered
butterfly). The Plan Area itself is home to many unique environmental features,
including Tuc-el-nuit Lake, the Okanagan River and the silt bluffs. Sensitive ecosystems
include Antelope brush grasslands, riparian areas, oxbow wetlands and rock outcrops.
Features and sensitive ecosystems together contribute to the wide diversity of species,
both common and rare, that are found within the Town of Oliver’s boundaries.
Environmentally sensitive ecosystems include grasslands, rugged terrain and steep
slopes, treed slopes, Tuc-el-nuit Lake, Okanagan River and the numerous wetlands and
riparian areas that exist adjacent to the river channel.
Grasslands and Rugged Terrain: Grasslands, rugged terrain and steep, vegetated slopes
form a significant part of the Town of Oliver’s natural areas. These ecosystems are
integral ecological systems, providing summer and winter habitat for many species and
function as a significant wild land and buffer between the Town of Oliver and semi-arid
lands vulnerable to the impacts of human settlement. These areas are also home to
many at risk and threatened species, including the American badger.
Tuc-el-nuit Lake: Located in the northeast portion of the Town of Oliver, the lake
provides habitat for a number of species of fish, reptiles, and songbirds, and is a staging
area for many species of migratory birds. The lake is strongly valued by residents for its
environmental and recreational values. Gasoline powered boats are prohibited on the
lake.
Okanagan River: The Okanagan River Channel connects Vaseux Lake to Osoyoos Lake
and is a critical migration route and habitat for different species of salmon, trout and
whitefish. The river is one of only two remaining spawning areas for sockeye salmon
within the Canadian portion of the Columbia River watershed. The Okanagan River’s
varied and extensive riparian area also supports many migratory birds and other wildlife
species, some of them at risk.
Oxbows and Other Wetland Areas: Prior to the Okanagan River being channelized to its
present configuration, it meandered through the valley bottom in the same general
location as the current channel. During this historic meandering process and the
eventual channelization of the river, a number of oxbows were created. Wetland and
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riparian (waterside) habitats are ecologically very important but many were eliminated
through the channelization of the Okanagan River and historic development adjacent to
the river channel. The remaining oxbows on both the east and west sides of the
Okanagan River Channel provide critical habitat for a variety of flora and fauna,
including provincial ‘Red Listed’ species that are threatened, endangered or extirpated
(locally extinct). In addition to the oxbows, there is a natural spring that creates a small
creek that flows behind the Okanagan Similkameen Growers packinghouse. It flows
through the industrial park in open ditches and culverts, eventually disappearing into
the ground near the river channel.
The Town of Oliver’s natural areas are generally shown on Schedule ‘G’ (Environmentally
Sensitive Development Permit Areas Map) and Schedule ‘H’ (Watercourse Development
Permit Areas Map)
In addition to the protection of environmentally sensitive areas and natural features,
there are several related environmental considerations to ensure a high quality of life
for the Town of Oliver’s residents. These include air and water quality, water
conservation, solid waste reduction and remediation of any contaminated sites.
Air Quality: The Town of Oliver recognizes the importance of maintaining good air
quality. The Town of Oliver does not allow open burning within its limits for safety and
air quality reasons. Burning within the surrounding Regional District is only permitted
between October 15 and April 15.
Water Quality and Quantity: The Town of Oliver is very conscious about water quality
and quantity, and is constantly in pursuit of initiatives that will maintain and further
enhance water quality. Given the arid climate, the Town of Oliver is aware that water
resources are precious, and as such, the Town of Oliver distributes educational literature
promoting water conservation in household and yard and garden applications. The
Town of Oliver also supports water conservation measures in agricultural, commercial
and industrial operations.
Liquid Waste Treatment: The Town of Oliver operates an efficient liquid waste
collection and treatment system that minimizes the impact of the effluent on the
environment and the risk to human health. The effluent quality from the aerated lagoon
system west of the cemetery complies with the Operational Certificate issued by the
Ministry of Environment. Reclaimed water is used for irrigation purposes, primarily at
the Fairview Mountain Golf Course, Airport and cemetery.
Oliver Landfill: The Oliver landfill is located approximately six kilometres southeast of
the Town of Oliver. The landfill is operated by the RDOS and is funded by the Town of
Oliver and the RDOS.
15.1 Objectives
.1 Preserve and protect sensitive ecological systems and biological diversity in the
Town of Oliver.
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.2 Promote awareness of the important linkage between the long-term health of the
Town of Oliver’s natural environment, economy and community livability.
.3 Promote initiatives to enhance air quality in the South Okanagan.
.4 Preserve and protect the quality and quantity of groundwater and surface water.
.5 Implement the Solid Waste Management Plan adopted by the RDOS in September
2012.
15.2 Policies
The Town of Oliver:
.1 Recognizes environmentally sensitive lands and has designated these lands as
Environmentally Sensitive Development Permit Areas (ESDP). These areas are
identified in Schedule ‘G’ (Environmentally Sensitive Development Permit Areas
Map). Development in designated ESDP areas is to occur according to guidelines
outlined in Section 23.5 of this OCP.
.2 Requires that land designated as environmentally sensitive on Schedule ‘G’
(Environmentally Sensitive Development Permit Areas Map) shall be retained in its
natural state and not be developed prior to the issuance of an Environmentally
Sensitive Development Permit (ESDP)
.3 Recognizes riparian values and, in accordance with the provincial Riparian Area
Regulation, has designated watercourses and adjacent upland areas as Watercourse
Development Permit (WDP) Areas as identified in Schedule ‘H’ (Watercourse
Development Permit Areas Map). Development in designated WDP Areas is to occur
according to guidelines outlined in Section 23.6 of this OCP.
.4 Requires that where a report by a Qualified Environmental Professional has been
requested, the report must be prepared by a relevant qualified professional (e.g.,
RPBio, certified arborist, BCSLA, P. Ag.) in accordance with the requirements
contained in the Town of Oliver’s Land Use Procedures Bylaw.
.5 Encourages the protection, preservation, enhancement and management of
sensitive ecosystems or land contiguous to sensitive ecosystems of private lands
through the following methods:
a) donation of land to the Town of Oliver or provincial government;
b) donation of land to a Land Trust or registered charitable conservation
organization;
c) creation of conservation covenants in favour of municipal, provincial
government, private conservation organizations;
d) registration of covenants to restrict uses or require undertakings under the
Land Title Act for affected areas;
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e) establishment of long-term leases for environmentally sensitive areas; and,
f) participation of land stewardship and conservation initiatives by private
landowners.
.6 Encourages and supports conservation organizations to acquire or protect by
covenant lands within the Town of Oliver that have a high or very high
environmentally sensitive ranking.
.7 Supports and encourages senior levels of government and habitat preservation
groups to enhance fish habitat in the Okanagan River Channel.
.8 Supports the identification of potential wildlife corridors and ecosystem
connectivity with adjacent private property, Crown lands, park and open spaces.
.9 Recognizes the importance of high air quality and will continue to promote
nonpolluting means of transportation and enforce the Town of Oliver’s ban on open
burning.
.10 Will work with residents, the agricultural sector, the forestry industry, provincial
ministries and the RDOS to avoid or mitigate air quality impact from the burning of
yard waste, agricultural prunings and wood waste.
.11 Will continue to heighten public awareness of the potential for ground water
contamination and health hazards related to the discharge of toxic substances into
the municipal drainage system.
.12 Will continue to support water restrictive provisions in the Town of Oliver’s Building
Bylaw that require the installation of low flow/low water consumption plumbing
fixtures in all new developments. Water conservation efforts may also include water
recycling, and promotion of xeriscape landscaping (the use of drought tolerant plant
material).
.13 Will continue to support the sustainable use of water and promote water
conservative practices in household and yard use and in business, industry and
agricultural operations.
.14 Supports the continued diversion of solid waste through implementation of the
RDOS Solid Waste Management Plan (2012).
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16. HAZARD LANDS
Portions of the Town of Oliver are located on lands considered to be hazardous for
development. These lands include slopes that are unstable and susceptible to sliding or
slumping, lands that are within the flood plain, and lands within an identified wildfire
hazard area are shown on Schedule ‘C’ (Hazard Lands Map).
Steep and unstable Lands: Lands that are considered potentially unstable include slopes
that are in excess of 30% (3 metres of vertical elevation for every 10 metres of
horizontal distance) and that have the potential for rock fall, land slip, or land slide.
Areas of concern in the Town of Oliver include the escarpment between Bellevue Drive
and Meadows Drive, and the area in the southeast portion of the community, east of
the Okanagan River Channel.
Flood Plain: The Ministry of Environment has prepared floodplain mapping which
indicates that there are areas within the Town of Oliver, adjacent to the Okanagan River
Channel, that are within the Okanagan River Channel Flood Plain. The Okanagan River
Channel Flood Plain outlines areas adjacent to the Channel that are less than 1.5 metres
above the Channel’s design water level. The flood elevation level for areas adjacent to
the river channel varies from 299.0 metres GSC (Geodetic Survey of Canada) at the
north end of the Town of Oliver to 295.3 metres GSC at the south end of the Town of
Oliver.
Wildfire Hazards: Although the Town of Oliver’s surrounding natural area is mainly
grassland rather than forest, the Wilson Mountain blaze in 2015 reminded the Town of
Oliver’s residents that fire hazards are possible, and that appropriate mitigation
measures should be addressed in this OCP. As the South Okanagan Valley contains
ecosystems within which wildfire is a natural disturbance, and since wildfire cannot be
eliminated from these ecosystems, the threat of wildfire will always be present.
However, the risk wildfire poses to development can be managed through appropriate
development policies and continual management efforts.
Contaminated Sites: Site contamination is caused when chemicals or toxic materials are
spilled or deposited on the ground. A site is contaminated if its land, water and/or
sediment are unsuitable for particular uses. This includes contamination of the soil,
groundwater or sediment in an amount or concentration that exceeds environmental
quality standards. Remediation requirements for contaminated sites are provided by the
Ministry of Environment, and known contaminated sites are registered in the province’s
contaminated sites registry. These procedures are important to ensure that
contaminated sites are remediated by the current owners, not unsuspecting future
owners. There are presently no contaminated sites that have been identified and
registered in the province’s contaminated sites registry.
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16.1 Objectives
.1 Prevent injury and loss of life and to prevent or minimize property damage as a
result of natural hazards.
.2 Ensure development does not occur in areas subject to known hazardous
conditions, unless the hazard has been sufficiently addressed and mitigated.
.3 Recognize that important habitat may also be found in natural areas that are
considered hazardous, and that disruption of these areas should be minimized.
.4 Reduce wildfire hazard threats to proposed new and existing development in the
wildfire interface area.
16.2 Policies
The Town of Oliver:
.1 Will strive to prevent development on lands that may be susceptible to a potential
hazard, or have been identified as hazardous by the Town of Oliver, unless the
applicant can prove the land can be safely used for the use intended.
.2 Will direct development away from lands identified as being susceptible to soil
instability and potential geotechnical hazards, including slopes with grades in excess
of 30%.
.3 Permits development on potential unstable lands subject to conditions established
by a qualified professional registered by the Association of Professional Engineers
and Geoscientists of British Columbia (APEGBC). Where a geotechnical report has
been provided in support of a development application, the owner must include the
report in a covenant with the Town of Oliver registered on title pursuant to section
219 of the Land Title Act to ensure safe use of the land and buildings for all
subsequent owners.
.4 Discourages development of land susceptible to flooding and encourages those
lands to be used for parks, open space, habitat conservation, recreation or
agricultural uses.
.5 Requires that where land subject to flooding is required for development and no
alternative land is available, construction and siting of buildings and manufactured
homes to be used for habitation, business, industry, or the storage of goods
damageable by floodwaters shall comply with Provincial Flood Hazard Area
Management Guidelines or the recommendations of a geotechnical report prepared
by a qualified professional engineer or geoscientist in accordance with applicable
APEGBC Guidelines.
.6 Will continue to participate in the process to assist the Province in the creation of a
provincial contaminated sites inventory and ensure that lands used for
redevelopment are appropriately remediated. This includes requiring owners of
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sites that have been used for commercial and industrial properties to complete a
“site profile” as provided in the Environmental Management Act at the time of any
application for a development permit, or rezoning, soil removal, demolition permit
or subdivision.
.7 Encourages provincial and/or federal agencies to conduct further research on
possible radon health risks in and around the Town of Oliver.
.8 Encourages residents to test their homes for radon exposure and to take
appropriate mitigation measures where radon levels are found to be higher than
recommended levels.
.9 Supports providing information on radon and radon mitigation opportunities to
residents of the Town of Oliver.
.10 Will foster wildfire awareness and resiliency through public education materials,
programs and events, including the FireSmart Communities program.
.11 Will review and update wildfire protection approaches as based on changing
community circumstances, climate change driven ecosystem conditions, and
mitigation techniques.
.12 Supports investigating the feasibility of a Wildfire Development Permit Area for the
Town of Oliver within which future development will be undertaken in a manner
that reduces home ignition through utilizing construction material and landscaping
guidelines as per the FireSmart Guidebook.
.13 Encourages property owners to adhere to FireSmart Guidelines to protect their
properties and neighbourhood from wildfire risk through measures that minimize
the opportunity for home ignition. Such measure can include maintaining a clean
roof and gutters and removing or not planting flammable vegetation and
landscaping material from within 10m of homes to reduce fuel loads.
.14 Supports pursuing provincial funding and resources to undertake wildfire risk
reduction in the wildfire urban interface areas.
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17. TRANSPORTATION
The Town of Oliver is responsible for the operation and maintenance of all roads within
its municipal boundaries except the curb-to-curb portion of Highway 97, which is
maintained by a private contractor under contract to the Ministry of Transportation and
Infrastructure. There are approximately 39 km of local streets in the Town of Oliver that
are maintained by the municipal crews. Maintenance includes patching, major repairs,
sweeping, snow removal, signage and street lighting.
The road network is based on a hierarchy of streets differing in function, traffic service,
traffic volumes and provision for on-street parking. The Town of Oliver’s road
classification system and hierarchy is composed of:
• Primary Highway: Provincial Highway 97
• Arterial Roads: These link major areas of the community and to Highway 97.
• Major Collectors: These roads provide links between groups of local roads in
neighbourhoods and transfer traffic to major Arterial Roads.
• Minor Collectors: These provide everyday access to individual homes and transfer
traffic to Major Collector and Arterial Roads.
• Local Roads: All other streets not noted above. These streets are designed primarily
to provide local access.
As growth areas develop within the Town of Oliver, increases in traffic volumes on main
road intersections will likely occur and will require design upgrading to provide safe and
uncongested through traffic movements.
Public Transit: Although public transportation within the Town of Oliver is not provided,
BC Transit does operate a community shuttle between the Town of Osoyoos, District of
Summerland, and City of Penticton three times a week.
Oliver Airport: The Town of Oliver also maintains a municipal airport with a 975 metre
paved runway. The Oliver Airport is a valuable community facility from an economic
development perspective, providing fly-in business and recreation opportunities. The
Province sold the land on which the airport is situated to the Town of Oliver, with the
condition that the land be used for airport purposes. The vision of the Oliver Airport is
to become the premier regional airfield for the South Okanagan providing excellence in
services and facilities available to air travelers and aircraft operators and to become
recognized as a model for convenient access, cost effectiveness and effective
partnerships with the Town’s residents and businesses. A 2012 plan identifies several
capital improvements, and the Town of Oliver has recently received senior government
funding approval to build a taxiway adjacent to the runway.
Trails, Paths, and Walkways: The Oliver and Area Hiking and Bicycling Society has been
instrumental in planning and fund-raising and constructing a hike and bike trail that
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extends from the McAlpine Bridge approximately 5 km north of the Town of Oliver,
through the Town of Oliver to the head of Osoyoos Lake. The northern 15 km of the 20
km long trail is paved, with the balance of the trail surfaced with gravel. The trail is
utilized by recreationalists for exercise, wildlife interpretation and as a medium for non-
motorized transportation.
The Town of Oliver is interested in pursuing other multi-use trail options within Oliver
that will link important areas within the community to each other and to areas outside
of the community. One such proposed trail is being contemplated on the existing
irrigation right-of-way in the southwest portion of the community.
The Oliver and Area Trails Master Plan (2009) indicates existing and proposed trails
within and around the Town of Oliver, some of which have been implemented. The
Town of Oliver’s strategic plan also recommends the completion of a new Parks and
Trails Master Plan by 2018, which will likely result in updates to this OCP. Town of Oliver
trails and trail plans are noted on Schedule ‘D’ (Parks and Recreation and Trails Network
Map).
Existing and planned transportation infrastructure including roads and trails are shown
on Schedule ‘E’ (Transportation Network). Specific aspects such as pedestrian
infrastructure improvements, parking, and traffic calming measures are not shown.
17.1 Objectives
.1 Provide a road network for safe, efficient, convenient and economic transportation
for all modes of traffic, and for all traffic destinations.
.2 Promote alternative means of non-polluting and convenient means of
transportation within the Town of Oliver.
.3 Provide transportation infrastructure (roads, sidewalks, and crosswalks) that
facilitates the mobility and accessibility needs of seniors and persons with
disabilities.
.4 Improve public transportation opportunities for residents of the Town of Oliver to
access locations both within and outside of the Town of Oliver.
.5 Continue to support a multi-purpose trail network that will connect residential,
recreation, cultural, economic, tourist and community destinations within the Town
of Oliver and the greater area.
.6 Enhance the operation and utilization of the Oliver airport and strive for financial
self-sufficiency.
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17.2 Policies
The Town of Oliver:
.1 Will continue to update and implement a road capital improvement plan for roads
within the Town of Oliver.
.2 Will update the Town of Oliver Subdivision and Development Services Bylaw as
required, to ensure that road infrastructure standards are consistent with the road
hierarchy outlined on Schedule ‘E’ (Transportation Network Map), and are
considerate of the special needs of seniors and persons with disabilities.
.3 Will develop a Sidewalk Implementation Strategy to enhance pedestrian
infrastructure, making the Town of Oliver more pedestrian friendly and encourage
its residents to be more physically active. This will include a review of the quality
and functioning of existing pedestrian infrastructure including crosswalks,
sidewalks, crossing signals and sidewalk-street transitions, with a focus on designing
for the needs of seniors and persons with disabilities.
.4 Will ensure new pedestrian infrastructure is accessible for seniors and persons with
disabilities.
.5 Supports study of traffic calming measures to enhance the road infrastructure for
vehicle, pedestrian and bicycle travel.
.6 Will explore options to provide additional parking opportunities within the Town
Centre.
.7 Opposes the removal of on street parking that currently exist on Main Street (i.e.
Highway 97 in the designated Town Centre).
.8 Will continue to work with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure to
mitigate the negative effects of Highway 97 being located through the middle of
Oliver’s downtown.
.9 Will work with BC Transit to evaluate the need and viability of providing public
transit opportunities within the Town of Oliver as well as more frequently scheduled
public transit service from the Town of Oliver to larger centers in the Okanagan,
including Penticton and Kelowna.
.10 Supports the trail network goals, plans and standards described in the 2009 Oliver
and Area Trails Master Plan.
.11 Will work with partners, including the Oliver Parks and Recreation Society on
implementing the Oliver and District Parks and Recreation Services Master Plan
(2001).
.12 Will continue to support private groups, societies, and service clubs, in their efforts
to raise funds and design and construct paths and trails such as the River Channel
Walkway.
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.13 Will continue to require that new local trail connections to service the new
subdivision and surrounding areas are installed by new developments as a condition
of subdivision approval.
.14 Will continue to promote and encourage the use of the Oliver Airport, and will
consider the expanded use of the airport lands for airport-related uses that
promote the facility and enhance economic development and tourism within the
Town of Oliver and the surrounding rural area.
.15 Will continue to work cooperatively with the Airport Advisory Committee to
improve the management of the airport and the airport lands.
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18. INFRASTRUCTURE AND SERVICING
The residents of Oliver are well served with modern urban infrastructure including
transportation (roads, trails, airport), municipal water, municipal sanitary sewer
services, storm water drainage, a solid waste disposal site, and electrical, natural gas,
telephone and cable television utilities.
Water: The Town of Oliver operates a pressurized domestic water system for the
community that includes seven well sites and one water reservoir. The Town of Oliver
also provides the domestic and irrigation water for residents in the RDOS Electoral Area
“C” within the former S.O.L.I.D. (South Okanagan Lands Irrigation District) area. Rural
irrigation water and domestic drinking water are separated. Rural domestic water is
supplied from the Town of Oliver’s system of wells, while irrigation water is distributed
to rural users through a system of pipes and an open irrigation canal, which transports
water from the Okanagan River Channel. The Town of Oliver will continue to pursue
water quality improvements for rural residents, contingent on available funds.
Sewer Service: The updated Liquid Waste Management Plan (1992) provides a plan for
the collection, treatment and disposal of wastewater in the Town of Oliver in
compliance with regulatory and public health standards. Sewage is collected by gravity
mains and pumped from a wastewater pump station by force main to a series of aerated
lagoons west of the Town of Oliver for treatment. Treated effluent is reclaimed for
irrigation purposes on selective sites including the Fairview Mountain Golf Course,
cemetery, some parks, the airport lands and some vineyards. All reclaimed water is
reused and a winter storage reservoir has created a new habitat area for a variety of
native plant and animal species.
Solid Waste: The Town of Oliver provides mandatory municipal garbage collection
service to small residential properties in the municipality through a private
contractor. Optional service is offered to other selected residential properties. The Town
of Oliver also provides curbside collection of yard waste and recyclable materials for all
residential dwelling units inside the municipal boundaries. The Oliver and District
Landfill is operated as a jointly funded, town-rural facility by the RDOS. A Solid Waste
Management Plan (SWMP) specifies how the Town of Oliver and the RDOS as a whole
will evolve the solid waste management system to achieve a waste diversion rate of
over 70%. The focus of the plan is on maximizing the diversion of organic waste from
landfilling or burning through increased composting; recycling at multi-family residences
and workplaces; and increasing the reuse and recycling of construction, demolition and
renovation waste. It is anticipated that the Oliver landfill site will serve the needs of the
Town of Oliver and the surrounding rural area to the year 2025. Without the current
level of recycling and diversion efforts from the landfill site, the life expectancy of the
landfill site would be considerably less.
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Private utilities in the Town of Oliver include electrical service, natural gas, telephone
infrastructure, and cable television.
18.1 Objectives
.1 Provide leadership in sustainable municipal infrastructure servicing, including the
conservation of energy, water and material resources.
.2 Maintain a level of sanitary sewer and domestic water infrastructure to efficiently
serve the Town of Oliver’s needs.
.3 Continue to provide quality domestic and irrigation water to the rural service area.
.4 Treat and re-use effluent wastewater in an environmentally responsible manner.
.5 Continue to increase recycling and solid waste diversion from the Oliver Landfill site
to maximize its life expectancy.
18.2 Policies
The Town of Oliver:
.1 Will adopt an Asset Management Policy that will provide guiding principles for
sustainable service delivery across the organization.
.2 Will develop a Corporate Asset Management Plan to establish an affordable,
balanced and well-maintained suite of infrastructure that supports the economic
health of the community.
.3 Will seek alternative energy sources to decrease the possibility of service disruption
and reduce energy costs by 10% in 2018.
.4 Will continue to monitor and update when appropriate the Town of Oliver Liquid
Waste Management Plan (2002).
.5 Will continue to upgrade and expand the Town of Oliver’s water and sewage
facilities in accordance with recommendations outlined in the Town of Oliver’s
approved Water Capital Plan and Liquid Waste Management Plan.
.6 Requires new development to connect to the Town of Oliver’s sewage facilities, if
available.
.7 Will continue to monitor the quality of the Town of Oliver’s domestic water and will
make all necessary adjustments and improvements to the water sources and
distribution system in compliance with the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water
Quality.
.8 Will develop a workplan for undertaking improvements to optimize the life of the
Irrigation Canal system.
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.9 Will continue to provide water to rural residents outside the Town of Oliver within
the rural water district on the basis of full cost recovery, and will continue to
maintain and upgrade rural water system infrastructure including the irrigation
canal.
.10 Will manage stormwater/rainwater in accordance with the most recent integrated
watershed management or rainwater best practices and design manuals, including
the management of rainwater on site and maintaining pre-development drainage
flows.
.11 Will implement and evaluate methods and measures that would promote water
conservation and reduce demand on the liquid waste treatment facility.
.12 Will support implementation of the Solid Waste Management Plan, adopted in 2012
by the RDOS.
.13 Will promote and enhance recycling efforts, and implement means of diverting
waste from the Oliver landfill site including curbside food waste collection and a
regional composting facility.
.14 Will work with the RDOS to maximize the useful life of the Oliver landfill site.
.15 Review the Subdivision and Development Servicing Bylaw to ensure that private
utility installation standards are appropriate.
.16 Will maintain its current utility installation policy of minimizing overhead power,
telephone, and cable television lines, and minimizing the number of utility poles
within the Town of Oliver.
.17 Work cooperatively with the private utility companies to facilitate the safe and
efficient installation of private utilities.
.18 Encourage the cooperation and coordination of utility companies in utilizing existing
utility corridors for multiple uses.
.19 Encourages the colocation of multiple cell phone providers on cellular towers.
.20 Ensure an adequate water supply for fire protection in compliance with the
Canadian Fire Underwriters' Association standards and the BC Building Code.
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19. CLIMATE CHANGE & GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS REDUCTION
The scientific community has a global consensus that the increasing emissions of
human-caused greenhouse gases (GHGs) are rapidly changing the earth’s climate.
Greenhouse gases refer to any or all of carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, hydro
fluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, sulphur hexafluoride and any other substance
prescribed by regulation.
Globally, the impacts of climate change will be significant, and are already evident in
some areas. Locally, the potential impacts and vulnerabilities are less well documented;
however, they are a growing concern for residents of the Town of Oliver and critical
industries, including both the wine and fruit tree industries.
As one of 182 local governments that are signatory to the B.C. Climate Action Charter,
the Town of Oliver has committed to reducing GHGs and has agreed to take actions to
achieve certain goals. In order to address growing concerns regarding climate change,
B.C.’s Local Government Act was amended in 2008 to require all official community
plans to set targets for the reduction of greenhouse gases, as well as policies and actions
to achieve the targets set.
Under the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Targets Act, B.C.'s GHG emissions are to be
reduced by at least 33% below 2007 levels by 2020. A further emission-reduction target
of 80% below 2007 levels is required for the year 2050. The three areas where the Town
of Oliver can play a role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions are in the transportation,
waste management and building sectors.
19.1 Objectives
.1 Understand the likely impacts and vulnerabilities of climate change to the Town of
Oliver.
.2 Reduce GHG emissions in the Town of Oliver as per the B.C. Climate Action Charter
reduction targets.
.3 Achieve carbon neutral Town of Oliver government operations.
.4 Promote and provide community outreach and education related to climate change
and reduction of GHG emissions.
19.2 Policies
The Town of Oliver:
.1 Targets reducing corporate GHG’s emissions by 10% from 2009 levels by 2020
taking initiatives described in the Town of Oliver’s Corporate Climate Action Plan
(2011) and summarized below, some of which have already been initiated:
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a) Manage building energy consumption.
b) Evaluate energy efficiency and alternative energy opportunities for all major
capital projects.
c) Continue to pursue green fleet management activities.
d) Improve efficiency of water and sewer infrastructure.
e) Evaluate and implement street lighting alternatives.
f) Develop an energy efficient purchasing policy.
g) Encourage energy efficiency efforts by staff.
h) Identify staff responsibilities related to energy and climate action.
i) Leverage partnership opportunities to advance climate action.
.2 Targets reducing community GHG emissions by 2% from 2007 levels by 2020 (i.e. a
20% per capita reduction) and by 10% from 2007 levels by 2030 (i.e. a 35% per
capita reduction), through taking initiatives described in the Town of Oliver’s
Corporate Climate Action Plan (2011) and summarized below:
a) Build energy efficient buildings.
b) Improve energy efficiency of existing buildings.
c) Increase use of alternative energy.
d) Build energy efficient developments.
e) Improve alternative transportation amenities.
f) Promote more efficient vehicle use.
g) Reduce and divert waste from landfills.
h) Maximize value from agricultural wastes.
i) Encourage more compact and mixed-use development.
.3 Advances Corporate Climate Action Plan initiatives by means of OCP and other
bylaw amendments, regulation and other Council policy documents, as appropriate,
and by follow-up action.
.4 Will work towards a corporate GHG reduction strategy to achieve carbon neutral
operations.
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20. HEALTH, WELLBEING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
The Town of Oliver recognizes the connections between land use planning and
development and public health, wellbeing and quality of life. Beyond healthier built
environments, the Town of Oliver also plays a role in supporting other health and well-
being concerns, including food security, housing (one of the most important social
determinants of individual health), and social development. While not all health and
social issues can be addressed through an official community plan, the Town of Oliver
has identified several issues that can be partially addressed through OCP policies.
20.1 Objectives
.1 Encourage the creation of a healthier built environment that supports more active
transportation choices and improve public safety.
.2 Increase the number of pedestrians and cyclists in the Town of Oliver.
.3 Improve public education and awareness around the links between population
health and land use planning.
.4 Support social development initiatives and programs where practical and feasible.
20.2 Policies
The Town of Oliver:
.1 Supports the ongoing coordination and integration of local and regional pedestrian
and bicycle plans and planning.
.2 Will ensure all new public facilities are accessible via accessible and active
transportation routes (i.e., trails, greenways).
.3 Coordinate with the Interior Health Authority’s Healthy Built Environment program
on the review of Town of Oliver plans and larger-scale development proposals.
.4 Encourages new development to incorporate healthy built environment best
practices.
.5 Supports bicycle amenities and infrastructure in public developments and larger-
scale private developments.
.6 Supports ongoing implementation of recommendations from the Oliver Measuring
Up Report (2009)
.7 Will work towards universal physical accessibility in all Town of Oliver buildings and
facilities.
.8 Will ensure all new sidewalks and crosswalks are constructed for universal physical
accessibility.
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.9 Will continue working with stakeholders and non-profit groups to identify barriers
to accessibility and prioritize investment in improvements.
.10 Will continue support for the use of secondary suites and carriage houses as a form
of affordable housing.
.11 Will continue to investigate ways and means of encouraging the development of
affordable seniors housing through grants, programs and legislation provided by
senior levels of government.
.12 Supports senior governments in their providing the necessary care services to
enable aging in place for existing residents
.13 Will consider developing a strategy to attract, retain and engage youth and young
families in the Town of Oliver to help support local schools, diversify community
demographics and create economic prosperity.
.14 Will continue cooperation with the RCMP to engage and involve residents in public
safety awareness.
.15 Will work with the RCMP, local businesses and other community stakeholders to
develop a Safer Community Strategy for the Town of Oliver.
.16 Will work with private and public agencies to provide the greatest possible
opportunities for the Town of Oliver’s youth.
.17 Invites youth to be active members on community committees wherever practical.
.18 Encourages Oliver’s youth to participate in stewardship opportunities,
environmental programs and community projects.
.19 Supports and encourages the development of childcare and day care facilities within
the Town of Oliver.
.20 Continues to support community development that supports the health and
wellbeing of families and children.
.21 Seeks opportunities to collaborate with the Interior Health Authority on programs
for families and children.
.22 Supports the Oliver Parks & Recreation Society in accommodating childcare services
in recreation facilities, where feasible.
.23 Will review the recommendations from Food Secure Oliver, a long-range plan for
increasing food security in the Town of Oliver and Electoral Area “C” (estimated
completion early 2018).
.24 Supports urban agriculture, such as community gardens, in all designations.
.25 Supports the ongoing work of food security and healthy living committees, groups
and organizations in Oliver.
.26 Will work with partners and stakeholders to ensure year-round access to safe,
affordable, locally sourced nutritious food for Town of Oliver residents.
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21. LOCAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
The Town of Oliver boasts a relatively diversified economy for a town its size with a mix
of public (healthcare, education, government) and private industry, including light
industrial and manufacturing businesses. While not as significant as it was historically,
the agricultural industry is still a major component of the local economy and the Town
of Oliver boasts active agricultural producers within the Town of Oliver’s boundary.
Though some new investment and business development has been attracted to the
Town of Oliver, the Town Centre is in decline and in need of revitalization.
21.1 Objectives
.1 Support Town Centre revitalization, including mixed-use development.
.2 Encourage local economic diversification.
.3 Support development of Station Street, in conjunction with Town Centre
revitalization.
.4 Support opportunities to enhance the Town of Oliver’s brand as the “Wine Capital of
Canada.”
21.2 Policies
The Town of Oliver:
.1 Will work with the South Okanagan Chamber of Commerce and other stakeholders
to identify opportunities for economic development in the Town of Oliver.
.2 Will work with the South Okanagan Chamber of Commerce and local businesses to
encourage and promote local shopping and services.
.3 Supports local employment and business opportunities by permitting home
businesses provided that the business does not have a detrimental effect (e.g.,
traffic, parking, signage, outdoor storage, lighting, noise) on existing residential
neighbourhoods.
.4 Will work with the South Okanagan Chamber of Commerce, local businesses and
other stakeholders to retain and expand existing Downtown businesses, while
attracting new investment and businesses to the Town Centre.
.5 Supports ongoing Town Centre revitalization efforts, including, but not limited to:
a) Public realm improvements and investments;
b) Facilitating the retention and expansion of existing business;
c) Encouraging mixed-used development on vacant properties, including Town of
Oliver -owned parcels;
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d) Station Street redevelopment that connects the two areas to one another and
the Okanagan River; and
e) Attracting new business and development to both Downtown and Station
Street.
.6 Will research options to relocate municipal offices to Town-owned land on Main
Street to help consolidate and improve services and access to them.
.7 Will develop a Feasibility Study and Business Case to determine the best uses for
Centennial Park.
.8 Supports and encourages existing and new business opportunities that directly or
indirectly support the wine industry to locate in the Town of Oliver.
.9 Will continue to promote the wine industry in the Town of Oliver area.
.10 Will continue promoting the Revitalization Tax Exemption Program bylaw for
Downtown as an economic development tool to encourage new investment and
attract new businesses and residents to the area.
.11 Work with partners to investigate ways to support value-added, community-based
business development.
.12 Will continue to promote and encourage agritourism activities on farms in the Town
of Oliver.
.13 Encourage light industrial / manufacturing development that is “clean and green.”
.14 Will work with public and private sector companies, organizations and societies, to
identify seniors housing needs and opportunities.
.15 Will support and encourage the establishment of business opportunities and
activities in the Town of Oliver that will cater to the specific health, fitness,
recreation and leisure activity needs of seniors.
.16 Will continue to monitor its level of sport and recreation infrastructure and services
and facilities, to ensure that the needs of the Town of Oliver’s seniors are met, and
to ensure that Oliver is viewed as a desirable location for tourists.
.17 Will work with the RDOS to evaluate appropriate trail linkages and connections to
activities, facilities and tourist opportunities outside of the Town.
.18 Will make efforts to protect the natural environment to the greatest possible
extent, to ensure that this resource is protected, preserved and maintained for the
enjoyment and benefit of residents, tourists and visitors to the Town of Oliver.
.19 Will consider developing a strategy to attract, retain and engage youth and young
families in the Town of Oliver to help support local schools, diversify community
demographics and create economic prosperity.
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22. TEMPORARY USE PERMITS
Temporary Use Permits may be considered by the Town of Oliver to allow specific land
uses to occur for a short period of time. The permit can contain detailed requirements
such as indicating the buildings that can be used, the time frame of the permit, and the
other conditions.
Such permits are provided at the discretion of the Town of Oliver Council and are only in
effect for a limited period of time. Temporary Use Permits are not a substitute for a
rezoning.
22.1 Objectives
.1 Avoid conflicts between different types of uses (i.e., residential, commercial,
agricultural).
.2 Provide for temporary approval of transitional uses, or uses where uncertainty
exists respecting appropriateness or viability of the use, and where it is premature
to decide rezoning and long-term land use patterns.
.3 Ensure that Temporary Use Permits are not considered a substitute for a rezoning
application.
22.2 Policies
The Town of Oliver:
.1 Designates all land within the Town of Oliver is designated under Section 492 of the
Local Government Act as an area in which Temporary Use Permits may be issued.
.2 Requires review and approval by the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
for any development subject to Section 52 (1) of the Transportation Act.
.3 May consider the following criteria in evaluating a Temporary Use Permit
application submitted to the Town of Oliver:
a) The use must be clearly temporary or seasonal in nature;
b) Compatibility of the proposal with adjacent uses;
c) Impact of the proposed use on the natural environment, including
groundwater, wildlife and all Environmentally Sensitive Development Permit
and Riparian Area Permit Areas;
d) Intensity of the proposed use;
e) Opportunity to conduct the proposed use on land elsewhere in the community;
and
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f) The remedial measures to be carried out to mitigate any damage to the natural
environment as a result of the temporary use.
.4 In issuing a Temporary Use Permit, the Town of Oliver may specify conditions
including, but not limited to:
a) The buildings to be used;
b) The area of use;
c) The hours of use;
d) Appearance;
e) Environmental protection measures; and
f) Groundwater protection.
.5 As a condition of issuing a Temporary Use Permit, the Town of Oliver may require
the posting of a bond or other applicable security to ensure compliance with the
conditions of a permit.
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23. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 488 of the Local Government Act, this OCP may
designate Development Permit Areas within the Plan Area. Unless otherwise specified,
the Town of Oliver Council must approve a Development Permit prior to any
disturbance, development or subdivision of land within a designated Development
Permit Area.
For lands within a Development Permit Area, the OCP must describe the special
conditions or objectives that justify the designation and specify guidelines respecting the
manner by which the special conditions or objectives will be addressed.
Six Development Permit Areas are hereby designated in this OCP:
• Town Centre Development Permit Area as identified in Schedule ‘F’ (Form and
Character Development Permit Areas Map);
• Multiple Family Development Permit Area as identified in Schedule ‘F’ (Form and
Character Development Permit Areas Map);
• Commercial Development Permit Area as identified in Schedule ‘F’ (Form and
Character Development Permit Areas Map);
• Industrial Development Permit Area as identified in Schedule ‘F’ (Form and Character
Development Permit Areas Map);
• Environmentally Sensitive Development Permit Area as identified in Schedule ‘G’
(Environmentally Sensitive Development Permit Areas Map); and
• Watercourse Development Permit Area as identified in Schedule ‘H’ (Watercourse
Development Permit Areas Map).
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
Page | 74
23.1 Town Centre Development Permit Area
Category
The Town Centre Development Permit Area is designated for the establishment of
objectives for the form and character of commercial and mixed-use commercial
residential buildings, and to promote energy conservation, water conservation and the
reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, pursuant to Sections 488(1)(f)(h)(i) and (j) of
the Local Government Act.
Area
The areas designated within the Town Centre Development Permit Area are shown on
Schedule ‘F’ (Form and Character Development Permit Areas Map).
Justification
The Town of Oliver’s Town Centre is the primary commercial area and is geographically
central to the community. It is also located prominently along Highway 97. The form
and character of buildings here can have a significant impact on the overall image of
the community, the pedestrian experience, and on the adjacent residential areas.
Objectives
The objectives of this designation are to:
.1 Provide an attractive, comfortable, safe environment for pedestrians;
.2 Maintain and enhance the appearance of the downtown area by establishing a
consistently high standard for development; and
.3 Ensure that site access and parking is adequately addressed.
Development Requiring a Permit
In the Town Centre Development Permit Area, except where exempted below a
Development Permit is required for the following:
.1 Construction of, addition to or alteration of a building or other structure.
Exemptions
The following do not require a Development Permit:
.1 Routine building repairs and/or maintenance, including “like for like” replacement
of roofing, siding, windows and/or doors.;
.2 Internal renovations;
.3 Instalation of canopies, awnings, or signs; and
.4 Building Code and safety requirements and upgrades such as the instalation of fire
protections systems, instalation of fire exits, construction of ramps for persons
with disabilties, etc; and
.5 Subdivision of land; and
Amended by Bylaw 1370.03
Adopted April 11, 2022
Amended by Bylaw 1370.03
Adopted April 11, 2022
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
Page | 75
.6 Construction of a new building or structure that does not require the issuance of a
building permit.
Guidelines
Development Permits issued in this area shall be in accordance with the following
guidelines:
.1 Siting and Massing of Buildings
a) Buildings must be oriented to face the street.
b) Corner buildings must face both adjacent streets.
Figure 7: Corner building example
c) The ground floor and second floor of a building must not be set back from the
public sidewalk, except where:
i. It is required, such as recessed building entrances;
ii. A setback provides space for pedestrian amenities such as small plazas
or outdoor seating areas; or
iii. A setback provides space for a porch or patio for a ground floor
residential unit.
Figure 8: Setbacks for entrances and patios
d) Any storey above the second floor must be articulated in a manner that
reduces the appearance of the size of the building. This could include upper
floor setbacks from the front and sides of the building; awnings, pergolas,
Amended by Bylaw 1370.03
Adopted April 11, 2022
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
Page | 76
cornices, balconies, or other architectural features which visually screen the
upper floors from the public sidewalk; and/or changes in exterior materials.
Figure 9: Upper floors set back to reduce appearance of size of building
e) If development occurs on Lot A, Plan EPP31652, District Lot 2450S, SDYD
between Station Street and the Okanagan River Channel, open space must be
maintained, and no new structures should be erected, within the area
extending directly east from the ends of Bank and Veterans Avenue right of
ways. This is to preserve views from Main Street to the Okanagan River
Channel and beyond.
.2 Pedestrian-oriented Architecture
a) The principal entrance to a building should be accessible by persons with
disabilities.
b) Front and side entrances should be an architectural focal point for the
building and should be recessed from the main façade of the building.
c) Building entrances should be accessed directly from the public sidewalk
without crossing any parking areas. This means that building entrances should
be on the front of the building (facing the street), or on the side of the
building where a pathway leads from the sidewalk directly to the entrance
without crossing any internal roads, driveways, or parking areas.
d) Ground floor units, both commercial and residential, should have individual
entrances from the street.
e) Awnings that extend over the public sidewalk should be included wherever
the building abuts the sidewalk.
.3 Form and Character of Buildings
a) Building facades should be articulated in a regular pattern at least every 7.5
metres in order to reflect the historic pattern of lot and building widths along
Main Street.
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
Page | 77
Figure 9: Building façade articulation
b) Buildings should not present blank walls to any public sidewalk. Instead they
should include a regular pattern of vertically and horizontally aligned,
windows on all walls that face a public sidewalk. The ground floor window
area should be at least 75% of the total wall area, and upper floor window
areas should be 50-75% of the total wall area on each floor.
Figure 10: Buildings and sidewalk orientation and presentation
c) The shape, rooflines, architectural features and exterior finish should be
sufficiently varied to create interest and avoid a monotonous appearance.
.4 Private Outdoor Spaces
a) All residential units should have access to private or semi-private outdoor
space or on balconies or roof decks.
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
Page | 78
b) Private or semi-private outdoor patios, balconies or roof decks should be no
smaller than 10 m2.
.5 Vehicle Parking & Access
a) Parking areas should be located to the rear, side, or below the building and
may not be located between the building and a public sidewalk.
b) Parking area entrances should be from a side street or rear lane wherever
possible. Parking area entrances from Main Street are discouraged.
c) Any surface parking or internal driveways or roads should be set back from
the public sidewalk. This set back area should include landscaping but should
not completely block the view between the sidewalk and the parking area.
d) Off-street surface parking should incorporate walkways as an integral element
of the design in order to ensure safe separation of pedestrians and vehicles.
e) Parking within a structure should be screened from view at sidewalk level.
f) Under building or parkade buildings should be arranged so that
the parking itself is located behind or obscured by commercial or
retail development on the ground floor.
.6 Bicycle & Mobility Scooter Parking
a) Bicycle parking facilities should be provided in visible locations near
principal building entrances. Strategically located electric bicycle and
scooter recharging stations are encouraged.
b) Long-term indoor bicycle parking facilities for residential uses
shall be provided and should be located close to elevators
and/or access points in the form of a cage or locked room
where bicycles can be fastened to a rack.
c) Secure storage for mobility scooters and other personal motorized
transportation methods are encouraged for residential uses and should be
located close to elevators and/or access points.
d) Improvements to a private parcel may include the provision of streetscape
furnishings on adjacent public lands (i.e. sidewalk) in the form of bicycle
racks.
.7 Screening and Landscaping
a) A landscaped island should be located at each end of every surface parking
aisle. Landscaped islands should be a minimum width of 2 m where feasible
and practical.
b) Outdoor storage areas, waste disposal containers, and heating and cooling
equipment should be screened from view with fencing or landscaping.
Amended by Bylaw 1370.05
Adopted Sept.24, 2018
Amended by Bylaw 1370.05
Adopted Sept.24, 2018
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
Page | 79
c) Site design should seek opportunities to incorporate a low impact approach to
managing stormwater. This may include swales, bio-retention and rain
gardens to reduce both peak stormwater flows and contaminant loadings.
.8 Energy and Conservation
a) The use of solar panels and geothermal energy technology is encouraged.
b) The construction of buildings using advanced building technologies and
industry certified programs such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental
Design (LEED) and BUILT GREEN® to reduce their environmental impact, lower
energy consumption, and improve longevity is encouraged.
23.2 Multi-Family Development Permit Area
Category
The Multiple Family Development Permit Area is designated for the establishment of
objectives for the form and character of multiple family residential development,
including duplexes, and to promote energy conservation, water conservation and the
reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, pursuant to Sections 488(1)(f)(h)(i) and (j) of
the Local Government Act.
Area
The Multiple Family Development Permit Area consists of lands designated for
Medium Density Residential and High Density Residential use as shown on Schedule ‘F’
(Form and Character Development Permit Areas Map), as well as properties zoned for
duplex development.
Justification
Most multiple family developments in the Town of Oliver are located in a prominent
location, often along a collector road and adjacent to single-family residential areas.
The massing and location of multiple family developments can have a significant visual
impact on the surrounding neighbourhood. This may result in a positive or a negative
impact on both residents and visitors. Well-crafted design guidelines for multiple
family developments can be used to integrate diverse building forms within
neighbourhoods, minimize neighbourhood friction, and create a positive impression
for the community. As a higher density form of development, multiple family housing
can make a significant contribution to energy and water conservation measures and
the reduction of GHG emissions if appropriate conservation measures are included.
Objectives
The objectives of this designation are to ensure that the siting, form, character and
landscaping of new multiple family development and exterior renovations and
additions to existing buildings are compatible with the surrounding neighbourhood.
This includes the overall aesthetic quality of the development as well as site plan
Amended by Bylaw 1370.03
Adopted April 11, 2022
Amended by Bylaw 1370.03
Adopted April 11, 2022
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
Page | 80
elements including access, parking, storage and landscaping. New housing
development should foster a sense of community, enhance the existing streetscape,
and maintain or enhance the area’s livability. Multi-family objectives include energy
and water conservation as well as greenhouse gas reduction measures to help ensure a
more sustainable development approach is taken.
Development Requiring a Permit
In the Multiple Family Development Permit Area, except where exempted below, a
Development Permit is required for the following:
.1 Construction of, addition to or alteration of a building or other structure.
Development Permit Exemptions
The following do not require a Development Permit:
.1 Routine building repairs and/or maintenance, including “like for like” replacement
of roofing, siding, windows and/or doors;
.2 Internal renovations;
.3 Instalation of canopies, awnings, or decks; and
.4 Building Code and safety requirements and upgrades such as the instalation of fire
protections systems, instalation of fire exits, construction of ramps for persons
with disabilties, etc.; and
.5 Subdivision of land; and
.6 Construction of a new building or structure that does not require
the issuance of a building permit.
Guidelines
Development Permits issued in this area shall be in accordance with the following
guidelines:
.1 Siting and Massing of Buildings
a) Buildings should include individual units or lobby entrances that face the
street, including internal strata streets.
b) Large buildings should be designed in a way that creates the impression of
smaller units and less bulk by using articulated building walls and irregular
faces.
c) Garages should be visually subordinate to residential units and pedestrian
entrances. This may be achieved by setting the garage further back from the
street than the principle structure and the pedestrian entryways, or by
grouping garages together in a separate area to the rear of the principle
structure.
Amended by Bylaw 1370.03
Adopted April 11, 2022
Amended by Bylaw 1370.03
Adopted April 11, 2022
Amended by Bylaw 1370.03
Adopted April 11, 2022
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
Page | 81
d) The design and siting of buildings and individual units should take advantage
of views, natural amenities and adjacent open spaces, as well as opportunities
for passive solar orientation for energy conservation.
.2 Pedestrian-Oriented Architecture
a) Apartments should contain an entrance feature that is visible from the street.
b) Building lobby or private unit entrances that face a public sidewalk should be
accessed directly from the public sidewalk without crossing any parking areas.
c) Building lobby or private unit entrances that do not face a public sidewalk
should have pedestrian access to the public sidewalk that does not cross any
parking areas.
.3 Form and Character of Buildings
a) The design and introduction of new building types to a residential
neighbourhood, should lend continuity to the neighbourhood without
clashing with the visual character of the neighbourhood.
b) Building shape, rooflines, architectural features and exterior finish should be
sufficiently varied to create interest and avoid a monotonous appearance.
.4 Private Outdoor Spaces
a) Ground floor residential units should include a patio or porch.
b) All residential units should have access to private or shared outdoor space at
ground level or on balconies or roof decks.
.5 Vehicle Parking and Access
a) Where individual townhouses or multi-family units have
vehicular access via public streets, combined driveway access
points are required to improve traffic safety and minimize
interruptions of landscaping along boulevards.
b) Parking areas should be located to the rear, side, or below the building and
should not be located between the building and a public sidewalk.
c) Parking area entrances should be from a side street or rear lane, wherever
possible.
d) Any surface parking or internal driveways or roads should be set back from
side and front parcel lines. This set back area should include landscaping but
should not completely block the view between the sidewalk and the parking
area.
Amended by Bylaw 1370.05
Adopted Sept.24, 2018
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
Page | 82
e) Off-street surface parking should incorporate walkways as an integral element
of the design to ensure safe separation of pedestrians and vehicles.
f) Parking within a structure should be screened from view at sidewalk level.
g) Large surface parking areas should be broken down into smaller parking lots
dispersed throughout the development and integrated with planted
landscaped areas. Tree planting is required in landscaping adjacent to parking
areas, both for energy conservation and aesthetic purposes.
.6 Bicycle & Mobility Scooter Parking
a) Short-term outdoor bicycle parking facilities shall be
provided and should be in well-lit locations clearly visible
from and close to a building entrance and protected from the
weather.
b) Bicycle racks shall be made of sturdy, theft resistant material that is
securely anchored to the floor or ground and shall be designed to support
the bicycle frame (not the wheels).
c) Long-term indoor bicycle parking facilities shall be provided and should be
located close to elevators and/or access points and in the form of a cage or
locked room where bicycles can be fastened to a rack.
d) Secure storage for mobility scooters and other personal motorized
transportation methods are encouraged and should be located close to
elevators and/or access points
.7 Screening and Landscaping
a) Landscape designs for new development should retain, where possible,
existing mature trees.
b) A landscaped island should be located at each end of every parking aisle.
Landscaped islands should be a minimum width of 2 m.
c) Outdoor storage areas, waste disposal containers, and heating and cooling
equipment must not be located in front yards and must be screened from
view with fencing or landscaping.
d) Site design should incorporate a low impact approach to managing
stormwater. This may include swales, bio-retention and rain gardens to
reduce stormwater flows and contaminant loadings.
e) Xeriscape landscaping (designed specifically for areas that are susceptible to
drought) is encouraged.
f) Age-friendly outdoor recreation, play or open green areas should be provided
within each project.
g) Setback areas adjacent to streets should be planted with boulevard trees and
turf.
Amended by Bylaw 1370.05
Adopted Sept.24, 2018
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
Page | 83
.8 Energy and Conservation
a) The use of solar panels and geothermal energy technology is encouraged for
residential buildings and for accessory structures such as swimming pools.
b) Buildings shall make provision for solid waste reduction measures including
provision for garbage, recycling, yard waste, organic (food) waste and
recycling collection including source separation.
c) The construction of multi-family buildings using advanced building
technologies and industry certified programs such as Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design (LEED), BUILT GREEN® and Passive House performance
standards to reduce their environmental impact, lower energy consumption,
and improve longevity is encouraged.
d) The orientation of buildings to take advantage of passive solar gain is
encouraged.
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
Page | 84
23.3 Commercial Development Permit Area
Category
The Commercial Development Permit Area is designated for the establishment of
objectives for the form and character of commercial development, and to promote
energy conservation, water conservation and the reduction of greenhouse gas
emissions, pursuant to Sections 488(1)(f)(h)(i) and (j) of the Local Government Act.
Area
The Commercial Development Permit Area consists of lands designated for Highway
Commercial and Tourist Commercial use as shown on Schedule ‘F’ (Form and Character
Development Permit Areas Map).
Justification
Highway Commercial development in the Town of Oliver is located along Highway 97
to the north and south of the Town Centre. Tourist Commercial development is located
generally in destination locations such as Tuc-el-nuit Lake. The massing and location of
both highway and tourist commercial developments can have a significant visual
impact on surrounding neighbourhoods and land uses. This may result in a positive or a
negative impact on both residents and visitors. Well-crafted design guidelines for
commercial developments can be used to improve the ambiance of destination
locations and along Highway 97, and minimize neighbourhood friction. Commercial
development can contribute to energy and water conservation consumption and GHG
emissions when appropriate conservation measures are not included.
Objectives
The objectives of this designation are to ensure that the siting, form, character and
landscaping of new commercial development and exterior renovations and additions
to existing buildings is compatible with the surrounding neighbourhood. This includes
the overall aesthetic quality of the development as well as site plan elements including
access, parking, storage and landscaping. Commercial development objectives include
energy and water conservation as well as greenhouse gas reduction measures to help
ensure a more sustainable development approach is taken.
Development Requiring a Permit
In the Commercial Development Permit Area, except where noted below, a
Development Permit is required for the following:
.1 Construction of, addition to or alteration of a building or other
structure.
Development Permit Exemptions
The following do not require a Development Permit:
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
Page | 85
.1 Routine building repairs and/or maintenance, including “like for like” replacement
of roofing, siding, windows and/or doors;
.2 Internal renovations;
.3 Instalation of canopies, awnings, decks or signs; and
.4 Building Code and safety requirements and upgrades such as the instalation of fire
protections systems, instalation of fire exits, construction of ramps for presons with
disabilties, etc.; and
.5 Subdivision of land; and
.6 Construction of a new building or structure that does not require the issuance of a
building permit.
Guidelines
Development Permits issued in this area shall be in accordance with the following
guidelines:
.1 Siting and Massing of Buildings
a) Buildings should be oriented to face the adjacent street or streets;
b) Long building walls shall be visually relieved by a combination of windows,
variety in exterior finishes, varied rooflines, and architectural features;
c) Where more than one building is to be constructed on the site, the buildings
should share common architectural features; and,
d) The design and siting of buildings should take advantage of views, natural
amenities and adjacent open spaces, as well as opportunities for passive solar
orientation for energy conservation.
.2 Pedestrian-Oriented Architecture
a) Building entrances must be accessed directly from adjacent public sidewalks
or any crosswalk without crossing any parking areas.
.3 Form and Character of Buildings
a) Building architecture should complement the architectural character of the
area and should maintain or enhance the “Wine Capital” image the Town is
promoting.
b) Any building elevation, including the roofline, that faces the street should be
articulated and finished in such a way that the building is sufficiently varied to
create interest and avoid a monotonous appearance.
.4 Vehicle Parking and Access
a) Any surface parking or internal driveways or roads should be
set back from the public sidewalk or from the shoulder of the Amended by Bylaw 1370.05
Adopted Sept.24, 2018
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
Page | 86
road where there is no sidewalk. This set back area should include landscaping
but should not completely block the view between the sidewalk or road and
the parking area.
b) Off-street surface parking should incorporate walkways as an integral element
of the design to ensure safe separation of pedestrians and vehicles.
c) Parking within a structure should be screened from view at sidewalk level.
d) Large surface parking areas should be broken down into smaller parking lots
dispersed throughout the development and integrated with planted
landscaped areas. Tree planting is required in landscaping adjacent to parking
areas, both for energy conservation and aesthetic purposes.
e) Parking areas may be gated, provided that required parking is accessible
during business hours.
.5 Bicycle & Mobility Scooter Parking
a) Bicycle and mobility scooter parking facilities should be provided
in visible locations adjacent to principal building entrances. They
should be protected from the weather, and provide safe and
secure parking.
.6 Screening and Landscaping
a) Landscape designs for new development should retain, where possible,
existing mature trees.
b) A landscaped island should be planted with trees and located at each end of
every parking aisle. Landscaped islands should be a minimum width of 2 m.
c) A boulevard of trees should be planted between the road and any parking
area.
d) Landscaped areas should be used to frame driveway entrances to create a
focal point at the entrance to the site.
e) Outdoor storage areas, waste disposal containers, and heating and cooling
equipment that is not located behind the building must be screened from
view with fencing or landscaping.
f) Site design should incorporate a low impact approach to managing
stormwater. This may include swales, bio-retention and rain gardens to
reduce stormwater flows and contaminant loadings.
g) Xeriscape landscaping (designed specifically for areas that are susceptible to
drought) is encouraged.
h) Landscaped areas with an area of over 20 m2 should include an underground
irrigation system.
.7 Energy and Conservation
Amended by Bylaw 1370.05
Adopted Sept.24, 2018
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
Page | 87
a) Buildings shall make provision for solid waste reduction measures including
provision for garbage, recycling, yard waste, organic (food) waste and
recycling collection including source separation.
b) The construction of commercial buildings using advanced building
technologies and industry certified programs such as LEED®, BUILT GREEN® a
to reduce their environmental impact, lower energy consumption, and
improve longevity is encouraged.
.8 Form and Character – Tourist Commercial
a) For Tourist Commercial uses where the principal use is a campground,
Guidelines 23.3.7.1 to 23.3.7.3 do not apply.
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
Page | 88
23.4 Industrial Development Permit Area
Category
The Industrial Development Permit Area is designated for the establishment of
objectives for the character of industrial development, pursuant to Sections
488(1)(f)(h)(i) and (j) of the Local Government Act.
Area
The Industrial Development Permit Area consists of lands designated for Industrial use
as shown on Schedule ‘F’ (Form and Character Development Permit Areas Map).
Justification
The overall image and impression of a community is created from the aesthetic value of
all components of the community. Achieving a high aesthetic standard for the Town of
Oliver’s industrial lands is important in creating and maintaining the positive
community image that is desired for the Town of Oliver. Industrial land is an important
source of employment for the labour force and serves as a major economic generator
for the Town of Oliver. In addition, industrial land is in close proximity to the Town
Centre and other commercial, residential and institutional uses. Providing an attractive
work environment and minimizing negative impacts on adjacent land uses all
contribute to the quality of life in the Town of Oliver.
Objectives
The objectives of this designation are to focus on landscaping, screening, fencing on
industrial lands in order to provide an attractive environment for the work force,
minimize negative impacts on nearby land uses and contribute to a positive image and
impression about the Town of Oliver.
Development Requiring a Permit
In the Industrial Development Permit Area, except where exempted below, a
Development Permit is required for the following:
.1 Construction of, addition to or alteration of a building or other structure.
Development Permit Exemptions
The following do not require a Development Permit:
.1 Routine building repairs and/or maintenance, including “like for
like” replacement of roofing, siding, windows and/or doors;
.2 Internal renovations; and
.3 Building Code and safety requirements and upgrades such as the instalation of fire
protections systems, instalation of fire exits, construction of ramps for persons with
disabilties, etc.;
.4 Subdivision of land; and Amended by Bylaw 1370.03
Adopted April 11, 2022
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
Page | 89
.5 Construction of a new building or structure that does not require
the issuance of a building permit.
Guidelines
Development Permits issued in this area shall be in accordance with the following
guidelines:
.1 Setbacks
a) Buildings and parking should be set back from parcel lines to create an
attractive and harmonious relationship between building sites and the street,
parking, and landscaped buffers.
b) Any site adjacent to an Environmentally Sensitive Development Permit Area or
Watercourse Development Permit Area should complement and enhance the
site edges with a minimum 4.0 metre landscaped buffer.
c) No storage of materials, waste, or parking should occur in required setback
areas.
.2 Parking
a) Any surface parking or internal driveways or roads should be separated from
the public sidewalk by a landscaped area.
b) Parking within a structure should be screened from view at sidewalk level.
c) Limit asphalt to drive aisles, accessible parking locations or main truck
maneuvering areas where possible. Gravel parking surfaces and permeable
paving materials are recommended. Dust must be controlled and all surfaces
to receive regular topping courses and maintenance.
d) Avoid standard curbs and gutters. Parking areas should take advantage of
natural drainage patterns on site through use of curb- cuts or wheel stops to
allow run-off into planting islands. Grading and drainage plans are to be
provided.
e) Use bio-swales at edges of parking lots where possible, to encourage natural
drainage, filter run-off, avoid artificial costly drain structures, and help
recharge ground water.
f) The provision of an electric charging station for employees is encouraged.
.3 Landscaping
a) Landscape designs for new development should retain, where possible, existing
mature trees and native vegetation.
b) Landscaped parking islands (minimum width 1.5 metres) and use of landscape
medians (minimum width 3.0 metres) will be required to shade the parking lot
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
Page | 90
and provide amenity. An overall ratio of 1 tree for every 5 cars is
recommended.
c) Native and drought tolerant plants should be used.
d) Landscaped areas with an area of over 20 m2 should include an underground
irrigation system.
.4 Screening and Fencing
a) Fences should be semitransparent to permit views into and out of sites.
b) Fences should have a high design quality and shall be constructed of highly
durable materials. The use of materials made of wood and stone, and metal is
encouraged.
c) Razor wire, electrified wire and barbed wire are not permitted.
d) Fencing shall not impair traffic safety by obscuring views.
e) The maximum height of a fence or wall shall be 2.4 metres.
f) Screens may be used to define outdoor spaces, to partially hide storage, or to
accent an entry to the building, using complimentary materials. They should not
exceed a height of 1.8 metres.
g) Horizontal design and proportions are encouraged. Staggered placement
should be used to avoid monotonous lines.
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
Page | 91
23.5 Environmentally Sensitive Development Permit Area
Category
The Environmentally Sensitive Development Permit Area (Environmentally Sensitive
DPA) is designated for the protection of the natural environment, its ecosystems and
biological diversity, pursuant to Section 488(1)(a) of the Local Government Act.
Area
The areas designated within the Environmentally Sensitive DPA are shown on Schedule
‘G’ (Environmentally Sensitive Development Permit Areas Map).
Justification
The Town of Oliver is within the South Okanagan, an area considered to be one of the
most ecologically diverse in British Columbia and Canada. It includes environmentally
sensitive areas and ecosystems, including grasslands, shrub-steppe, wetlands, riparian
areas, old growth and mature forest, and rugged terrain. These sensitive areas and
ecosystems support many federally listed Species at Risk (species which are
endangered, threatened or of special concern), provincially ranked (Red or Blue) and
regionally significant species, making it one of Canada's most endangered landscapes.
Objectives
To preserve sensitive ecosystems, their functioning, connectivity and the species
therein, and ensure that development within and adjacent to these ecosystems is
carried out in accordance to established guidelines.
Development Requiring a Permit
.1 In the Environmentally Sensitive DPA, except where exempted below, a
Development Permit is required for the following:
a) subdivision;
b) the construction of, addition to or alteration of a building or other structure;
and
c) alteration of the land, including grading, removal, deposit or moving of soil,
paving, installation of drainage or underground services.
Exemptions
An Environmentally Sensitive Development Permit is not required under this section
for any of the following:
.1 The construction, repair, maintenance or alteration of any public structure, facility
or land, including park land, open space or trails;
.2 The construction, repair, maintenance or alteration of public utility works,
including sanitary sewer, storm sewer, water, natural gas, cable, hydro-electric or
telecommunications works;
Town of Oliver | Official Community Plan
Page | 92
.3 The repair, alteration, or addition to an existing building or structure, provided the
footprint of the building or structure is not expanded;
.4 An area where the applicant can demonstrate that:
a) the conditions of the ESDP Area have already been satisfied;
b) a Development Permit for the same area has already been issued in the past
and the conditions in the Development Permit have all been met; or
c) the conditions addressed in the previous Development Permit will not be
affected.
.5 The construction, alteration, addition, repair, demolition and maintenance of
buildings and structures to be used in relation to a farm use as defined in the
Agricultural Land Commission Act on land located in the ALR and classified as
“farm” under the Assessment Act;
.6 Any farm use as defined in the Agriculture Land Commission Act on land located in
the ALR;
.7 The repair of existing fences; and
.8 Subdivisions that propose to:
a) consolidate existing parcels, including the consolidation of parts of a closed
road to an existing parcel; or
b) alter parcel lines between two or more parcels where no additional parcels are
created upon completion of the alteration.
Guidelines
Where a Development Permit is required within the Environmentally Sensitive DPA, it
shall be in accordance with the following guidelines:
.1 An Environmental Assessment (EA) Report must be prepared by a Qualified
Environmental Professional (QEP). The QEP must be a Registered Professional
Biologist (RPBio) familiar with the species and ecosystems in the southern
Okanagan. Other qualified professionals may be required to supplement the
findings of the RPBio and satisfy the requirements of the EA report. The
environmental assessment provides the foundation for new development
proposals.
.2 The EA will include two phases of assessment as follows, which can be completed
together or separately:
a) The Ecological Assessment Phase is intended to assess both the biological
conditions and physical conditions of a site. It should be carried out in
advance of any preliminary layout plan and prior to any preparatory site
disturbances. The Ecological Assessment Phase determines a development
footprint respectful of species and sensitive ecosystems.
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b) The Impact Assessment and Mitigation Phase is generally carried out after the
preliminary layout plan and outlines the impact, if any, of the development
footprint on sensitive ecosystems and species and recommends compensation
and/or mitigation measures to minimize or cause no impact.
.3 In accordance with the environmental assessment, lands deemed environmentally
sensitive must be designated in the development permit as 'non- disturbance
areas' and could involve lands on the periphery of the development footprint as
well as some lands within the development area itself. These areas are to be
cordoned off or fenced during construction and where and when deemed
necessary based on recommendations in the EA (based on provincial Best
Management Practices ‘BMPs’) completed by the QEP and in accordance with the
development permit.
.4 Slopes in excess of 30 % are to remain free of development including buildings,
roads/driveways and wherever possible, utility corridors.
.5 The planning, design and construction of all development should avoid
encroachment on sensitive ecosystems identified in the environmental
assessment. This includes, but is not exclusive to, habitat values for federally listed
Species at Risk (endangered, threatened, or special concern), provincially ranked
(Red or Blue) and regionally significant species, as well as connectivity between
habitats including wildlife travel corridors. Wherever possible, buffer sensitive
ecosystems from the development area and adjacent lands having sensitive
ecosystems based on BMPs.
.6 Development should result in no net increase in post-development surface water
flows and impermeability or affect the quality of water available within the non-
disturbance areas unless specified otherwise in the development permit.
.7 Construction of underground service utilities and access roads may be considered
providing disturbance to the natural environment is minimal and restoration and
enhancement of disturbed areas is undertaken upon completion of construction,
as specified in the development permit.
.8 Manage erosion and sediment impacts during and after construction according to
measures prescribed in current BMPs or other standards or guidelines of the
Town.
.9 Design linear corridors such as roads, driveways, trails and utility corridors with
alternative construction standards (e.g. narrow, permeable surfaces) wherever
possible to minimize impacts on the environment and to allow for wildlife
crossings.
.10 Avoid any disturbance of native vegetation in the non-disturbance areas and
wherever possible retain existing native vegetation within the development area
and encourage the planting of native and dry land plant landscaping in disturbed
areas.
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.11 Control invasive plant species using site and species appropriate methods (e.g.
hand pulling, digging, cutting and mowing).
.12 Landscape plans approved by the QEP conducting the EA, are required where
environmental restoration is a condition of the development permit.
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23.6 Watercourse Development Permit Area
Category
The Watercourse Development Permit Area (Watercourse DPA) is designated for the
protection of the natural environment, its ecosystems and biological diversity pursuant
to Section 488(1)(a) of the Local Government Act.
Area
The areas designated within the Watercourse DPA are shown on Schedule ‘H’
(Watercourse Development Permit Areas Map).
The definitions used in the Local Government Act and Provincial Riparian Areas
Regulation (RAR) shall apply.
Justification
To regulate land use in accordance with the RAR.
Objectives
To protect aquatic habitat, enhance, conserve and restore watercourses and
associated riparian areas.
Development Requiring a Permit
In the Watercourse DPA, except where exempted below, is required for the following:
.1 removal, alteration, disruption or destruction of vegetation;
.2 disturbance of soils;
.3 construction or erection of buildings and structures;
.4 creation of non-structural impervious or semi-impervious surfaces;
.5 flood protection works;
.6 construction of roads, docks, wharves and bridges;
.7 development of drainage systems;
.8 development of utility corridors; and
.9 subdivision of land.
Exemptions
A Watercourse Development Permit is not required for any of the following within the
Watercourse DPA:
.1 The construction, repair, maintenance or alteration of any public structure, facility
or land, including park land, open space, roads or trails;
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.2 The construction, repair, maintenance or alteration of public utility works,
including sanitary sewer, storm sewer, water, natural gas, cable or
telecommunications works;
.3 The repair, alteration or addition to an existing permanent building or structure,
provided the foundation of the existing building or structure is not expanded;
.4 An area where the applicant can demonstrate that the conditions of the
Watercourse DPA have already been satisfied, or a Development Permit for the
same area has already been issued in the past and the conditions in the
Development Permit have all been met, or the conditions addressed in the
previous Development Permit will not be affected;
.5 The construction, alteration, addition, repair, demolition and maintenance of
buildings and structures to be used in relation to a farm use as defined in the
Agricultural Land Commission Act on land located in the ALR and classified as
“farm” under the Assessment Act;
.6 Any farm use as defined in the Agriculture Land Commission Act on land located in
the ALR;
.7 Development Permit provisions do not apply to activities such as gardening and
yard maintenance activities within an existing landscaped area, such as mowed
lawns, minor pruning of trees and shrubs, planting vegetation and minor soil
disturbance that does not alter the general contours of the land.
Guidelines
Where a Development Permit is required within the Watercourse DPA, it shall be in
accordance with the following guidelines:
.1 An Environmental Assessment (EA) Report must be prepared by a Qualified
Environmental Professional (QEP). The QEP must be a Registered Professional
Biologist (RPBio) familiar with the species and ecosystems in the southern
Okanagan. Other qualified professionals may be required to supplement the
findings of the RPBio and satisfy the requirements of the EA report. The
environmental assessment provides the foundation for new development
proposals.
.2 The Assessment Report must be submitted to the Town of Oliver in respect of the
proposed development by a QEP under contract to the development applicant,
including:
a) certification that the professional is qualified to undertake the assessment
and has used the appropriate assessment methods, all in accordance with the
Provincial RAR;
b) description and map of all pertinent aspects of the proposed development;
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c) confirmation of the boundaries of the Riparian Assessment Area (RAA), and
within that, the determined width of the Streamside Protection and
Enhancement Area (SPEA);
d) description of the natural features, functions and conditions in the riparian
area that support fish life processes;
e) recommended measures necessary for conserving, restoring or enhancing the
integrity of the riparian area; and
f) professional opinion that the development as proposed would not result in
harmful alteration, disruption or destruction of natural features, functions and
conditions that support fish life processes in the riparian assessment area.
.3 Unless the proposed development or alteration of land is clearly outside (1.5 m)
the Watercourse DPA, the location of the development shall be determined by
survey to be undertaken through the supervision of QEP in relation to the
Watercourse DPA to determine whether a development permit application is
required.
.4 In the event that a QEP determines that a proposed development will not be
within a Watercourse DPA or have no impact on a Watercourse DPA, the QEP shall
submit a written report with such documentation and a Watercourse
Development Permit will not be required.
.5 The provision of a security deposit may be required in the amount outlined in the
QEP’s assessment report.
.6 If an area of land is subject to additional Development Permit Area designations
under Section 488(1)(a) of the Local Government Act, the Town of Oliver requires
that a single development permit application that combines the requirements of
each Development Permit Area be submitted. The application will be assessed in
accordance with the individual development permit guidelines for each applicable
Development Permit Area under this bylaw and, if approved, issued under a
combined development permit.
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24. IMPLEMENTATION
This OCP sets out broad objectives, polices and directions for the Town of Oliver, but
does not provide the tools for implementing its policies. The Town of Oliver has several
tools and methods available for implementing the OCP. The purpose of this section is to
set out specific steps the Town of Oliver can take to implement this OCP. Some of the
steps include refining the Plan; changing existing bylaws; adopting new bylaws;
conducting studies to obtain more information and direction; and working closely with
other jurisdictions and government agencies. Some of the specific steps are set out in
the subsections below.
24.1 Refinements and Amendments
OCP amendments are usually triggered by site-specific rezoning proposals that are
inconsistent with the OCP. Other changes to the OCP may be proposed by Town of
Oliver staff to keep the plan up-to-date and to meet the needs of a changing
community.
The Local Government Act regulates the process for an application for an OCP
amendment. The process requires public notification, public hearing, and opportunities
for consideration of the application by Town of Oliver Council.
The Town of Oliver may also consider refinements to this OCP. These refinements may
include but are not limited to the following:
.1 Periodic assessment of the OCP to determine area revisions;
.2 Coordination with changes to Provincial legislation (e.g. Local Government Act,
Community Charter, Agricultural Land Commission Act, etc.)
.3 Coordination with new or revised Provincial plans and policies that relate to land
use and community issues in Oliver.
.4 Coordination with new or revised regional plans and policies (e.g. South Okanagan
Regional Growth Strategy).
.5 Changes resulting from transportation planning (and capital improvements).
.6 Changes to the known geographic extent of Environmentally Sensitive
Development Permit Areas, as determined through the review of plans, reports
and applications submitted by project proponents to Oliver.
Recognizing this OCP is a living document, it has been identified that the OCP should be
reviewed and updated every seven to 10 years and that a comprehensive review and update
should take place every 10 to 15 years.
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24.2 Follow-up Studies and Actions
The following are studies and initiatives that have been identified in the OCP as actions
that could implement portions of this OCP. The actions are organized into short-term
(one to two years) and medium-term (three years+) actions.
Recognizing the Town of Oliver’s capacity issues (i.e., limited time, human resources,
financial resources) and those faced by the stakeholders who may be involved in
implementing OCP actions, Town of Oliver staff screened and prioritized the actions.
Table 6: OCP Actions and Initiatives
24.3 Zoning Bylaw
The Town of Oliver’s Zoning Bylaw sets out the density of development on a parcel of
land, as well as specifying the permitted uses allowed. It also contains specific
regulations that control the size, siting and various other details of development on a
parcel of land. The Zoning Bylaw will be updated to ensure consistency with the OCP and
to implement portions of this OCP.
24.4 Monitoring and Evaluation
The Town of Oliver will monitor the OCP on an ongoing basis. The OCP will be revised
when necessary to ensure it addresses current needs and aspirations of the community
Short-term / ongoing (one to two years)
Actions Lead Responsibility
Review and update Town of Oliver Zoning Bylaw 1350 to ensure
consistency with OCP Town of Oliver
Develop an airport industrial zone for the Town of Oliver Zoning
Bylaw 1350 Town of Oliver
Review and update Land Use Procedures Bylaw Town of Oliver
Develop Centennial Park Feasibility Study and Business Case
(22.2.7) Town of Oliver
Develop Asset Management Policy (18.2.1) Town of Oliver
Medium-term (three years+)
Review and update Subdivision and Development Servicing
Bylaw (18.2.15) Town of Oliver
Develop Corporate Asset Management Plan (18.2.2) Town of Oliver
Develop Sidewalk Implementation Strategy (17.2.3) Town of Oliver
Develop Irrigation Canal Improvements Workplan (18.2.8) Town of Oliver,
Province
Develop Safer Community Strategy (20.2.15) Town of Oliver,
RCMP
Review and consider Food Secure Oliver (20.2.23) Town of Oliver
Amended by Bylaw
1370.04
Adopted July 9,
2018
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and reflects changing local and external conditions. In support of this initiative, the
Town of Oliver will monitor:
.1 Population and demographic changes;
.2 Water supply, consumption and management issues;
.3 Land supply / demand;
.4 Changing housing requirements; and
.5 Economic, social, and environmental factors.
Based on the review of information collected from OCP monitoring, the Town of Oliver
may choose to refine or amend the OCP accordingly as resources permit.
~ end of Schedule ‘A’ ~