WCEL > Issues > Urban Growth and Development > Smart Bylaws Guide > Part 6 > Use Site Resources Wisely > Unique Zoning and Clustering > Nanaimo

Smart Bylaws Guide – Use Site Resources Wisely – Unique Zoning and Clustering – Nanaimo

The City of Nanaimo allows a clustered housing form of subdivision outside the urban growth boundary where existing zoning provides for large-lot residential development, provided such development results in no greater density, better addresses topographical difficulties, protects environmentally significant features, protects agricultural and forestry activities, and preserves open space and rural character. Nanaimo also allows clustering on parcels proposed for subdivision in exchange for park land dedication in excess of 5% where park acquisition is desirable. 

For example, one rezoning application brought before Council detailed the construction of four fourplexes in a suburban neighbourhood zoned for single family residences. The cluster housing, in keeping with municipal policy and resulting in no increase in gross density, was designed to protect a watercourse and provide additional park land for the City. The residential units were to be constructed at the opposite end of the property from the watercourse, thus freeing up additional land at the top of the ravine and maintaining the required 15 metre set back. The applicant proposed to dedicate all of the ravine land and a portion of the top of the bank for park land. As required by the OCP, the rezoning contribution to the community was to be $400 per unit ($6400) towards park equipment to be installed on the adjacent City park.

For More Information

Rob Lawrance, Environmental Planner (250) 755-4483 Ext: 286 rob.lawrance@nanaimo.ca

Kevin Brydges, Environmental Coordinator (250) 755-4460 Ext: 386 kevin.brydges@nanaimo.ca