With a projected demand of 2,435 new housing units in Qualicum Beach over the next 20 years, the Town’s 2025 Official Community Plan (OCP) Review process is set to focus on housing to comply with new provincial housing regulations.

In late 2023, the Province of BC enacted legislation to increase housing density and availability in all communities in BC. The Town has met these requirements to date, including implementing zoning bylaw changes and completing its Interim Housing Needs Report in 2024.

To meet the next set of provincially legislated deadlines, the Town must update its OCP. To provide input on the OCP, the Town will undertake a series of engagements between March and May. These events will provide opportunities for residents, businesses, and organizations to express their thoughts and ideas to help plan the future of housing in Qualicum Beach.

The OCP will engage on four key areas of housing to ensure the Town’s policies meet the housing needs of the community:

• Which household types need housing support?
• Where should new housing and density be located?
• What should new housing and density look like?
• What should the Town’s role be in facilitating housing development?

The 2025 engagement process was launched with The Quality of Life Survey (now extended to March 17) and will follow with a series of in-person engagements, including open house events, guided discussions, meetings, and pop-up events. The results from the community engagement will then be presented at an open house with information on the next steps on the 2025 OCP Review.

Following public engagement, a draft OCP will be provided to Council for review. The Plan will go through the required bylaw amendment process, including a public hearing, before its final adoption. The provincially legislated deadline for OCP adoption is December 31, 2025.

Stay informed of engagement opportunities by signing up for “Projects & Panning” emails and visiting the project webpage at qualicumbeach.com/ocp. 

With enhanced navigation and accessibility features, the Town’s updated website makes it easier to find information, submit inquiries and stay connected with the Town. 

Key features include a unified search system for quick access to information, improved navigation, an accessible document library, and enhanced accessibility options such as customizable text sizes and highlighted links.

Residents can provide feedback until March 28, 2025, which will aid in ongoing improvements as the site aims to facilitate better service and communication between the Town, its residents, and visitors.

Visit the website at qualicumbeach.com and complete the survey to give us your feedback by March 28.

Watermain flushing - From March 12

Annual flushing is one of the most important practices carried out by our Public Works crews to maintain high water quality, improve the capacity of pipes, and ensure proper operation of the hydrants.

Crews will begin flushing on March 12, from 8 am to 3:30 pm, for approximately three weeks.

No Dogs on Beach - March 1 - April 30

Each Spring, Brant Geese arrive on our shores to rest and regain strength on their way to the Alaskan Peninsula.

Dogs are not permitted (on-leash or off-leash) on any public beach between March 1 to April 30. A fine of $100 may be issued as per the Animal Control Bylaw.

Dogs are permitted on the street level walkway on-leash.

Garden refuse fires - March 15 - April 5

Fires are allowed on properties within the Agricultural Land Reserve only.

A permit is required and available at Town Hall or qualicumbeach.com/burn-permits

Playing Fields Closed - From March 17

The Community Park Playing Fields will be closed from March 17 to April 4.

This closure allows the grounds to undergo seasonal maintenance essential to the health of the fields.