North Pender DPA Information Guide Map 8

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NORTH PENDER ISLAND
protecting ecosystems
What are Development Permit Areas?
When do I need a DP?
photo: Christine Rikely
You are receiving this update because your property contains one or more DPAs (see over).  This means that if you plan 
to develop in a DPA then you may need to obtain a DP first.  This does not necessarily mean development cannot occur, 
although avoidance of DP areas if possible is a best, first strategy.   There are circumstances, particularly Development 
Permit  Area 10 - Riparian and Aquatic Ecosystems, where some portions of the DPA will be dedicated as an area where 
no development can occur.  If you have DPA 10 on your property, please refer to the specific sheet available online or 
contact staff (over).   
The community of North Pender has identified the preservation and protection of sensitive ecosystems - including 
woodland areas, riparian areas beside streams and lakes, and intertidal areas, and others - as a priority.  These ecosystems 
are critical to the overall health of the island’s environment and integral to what makes North Pender and the whole Trust 
Area unique.
By designating Development Permit Areas (DPAs), the North Pender Local Trust Committee (LTC) is able to provide 
protection to ecosystems that have been identified and designated as particularly sensitive to the impacts of 
development. DPAs are part of North Pender’s Official Community Plan (OCP) and there are currently eight (8) covering 
about 7% of the island and its foreshore. 
There is genuine concern about development occurring in a DPA that could cause irreparable damage to protected 
ecosystems. There is a required procedure to follow that supports appropriate development while also ensuring the 
environment is protected. The LTC is providing this information so landowners and contractors are better aware of the 
existence of DPAs on the island and know how to proceed should they be contemplating development. 
Development generally means any subdivision or alteration of the land or any construction, alteration, or addition to 
buildings and structures including over the water in some cases.  This includes activities such as removing trees or 
vegetation or putting in roads or docks.      
Should you wish to develop in a DPA, you need to obtain a Development Permit (DP). These allow the LTC to review the 
proposed development and ensure that development is best managed to protect the ecosystem in question. DPs can also 
facilitate restoration and enhancement.
You will need to obtain a DP for any development activity that is not exempt and that is proposed within a DPA. If you have 
more than one DPA on a property you only need to make one application and pay one fee, and one permit will incorporate 
all DPA conditions. Most applications will require that you hire a Qualified Environmental Professional (QEP- usually a 
biologist) who will follow the DPA guidelines and provide a report on the condition and significance of the ecosystem, a

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