For too long, a common misconception has restricted local government’s ability to protect the environment and manage responsible development. Many elected officials on the Sunshine Coast—and throughout British Columbia—believe that regional districts have limited control over significant land use decisions because the BC Ministry of Transportation and Transit (MoTT) has authority over subdivision approval.
However, this belief is incorrect.
Regional districts have the authority to make land use decisions. If they seem to lack control, it may be because their Official Community Plans (OCPs) and zoning bylaws are not sufficiently robust or clear.
The Ministry of Transportation and Transit (MOTT) must not approve applications that conflict with the local government’s OCPs and bylaws.
The most effective approach to enhancing local decision-making authority to protect environmental values on the Sunshine Coast is for the Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD), the Town of Gibsons, and the District of Sechelt to adopt comprehensive and cohesive OCP guidelines and supporting bylaws.
What Does the Law Say?
BC’s Local Government Act and Transportation Act do not compel the Ministry of Transportation and Transit to consult local governments on subdivision approval. However, both Acts clearly state that MoTT’s Approving Officers must comply with local government bylaws and OCPs when reviewing subdivision applications.
✅ Local Government Act, Section 471-488 – OCPs set the vision for land use, and all zoning and development bylaws must align with them.
✅ Transportation Act, Section 93(3) – MoTT must ensure that subdivision approvals adhere to local government zoning and bylaws.
✅ Case Law: Neufeld v. Surrey (City) – This legal precedent confirms that Approving Officers must uphold local land use policies and consider the public interest.
What Can the Sunshine Coast Regional District Do?
To ensure it has the power to direct land use decisions and protect the environment, the SCRD should:
1️⃣ Adopt a Regional Conservation Strategy – This would establish high-priority environmental protection zones.
2️⃣ Strengthen Zoning & OCP Bylaws – Clear, enforceable bylaws can direct development away from sensitive ecosystems.
3️⃣ Expand Environmental Development Permit Areas (EDPAs) – EDPAs require environmental review before any land clearing can take place.
4️⃣ Improve Coordination with MoTT – Ensure that all future transportation and subdivision decisions align with regional conservation goals.
Why This Matters
The Sunshine Coast is at a crossroads. Without strong bylaws and OCP policies, large-scale land clearing and development can proceed without adequate environmental protections. Climate change, habitat destruction, and water shortages are real threats—but we have the power to act.
The Sunshine Coast Green Bylaws Report provides a roadmap for increasing our local authority. By creating stronger bylaws, the SCRD can ensure that our communities—not the province—control how our lands are used.
Get Involved!
📣 Speak up at local government meetings! 📜 Urge your elected officials to adopt the Sunshine Coast Green Bylaws recommendations! ✍️ Submit feedback during Official Community Plan consultations!
The time to act is now. The future of our forests, watersheds, and communities depends on it.