Building in environmentally sensitive or hazardous areas

Development Permit Areas (DPAs) are areas that have special guidelines for any development or alteration of the land.

There are five Environmental Protection and Natural Hazard DPAs that protect the environment or protect development in hazardous areas.

There are two more planning DPAs, which guide the form and character and support energy and water conservation, and greenhouse gas reduction, primarily for commercial developments.

What it means if you are located in a DPA

If your property is located within one or more of the Environmental Protection or Natural Hazard DPAs, you may need a development permit before you can proceed with a building project on your lot.

Find out if your property is located in a DPA, and what that means for you