City to host open house on proposed development application bylaw changes

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Fort St. John residents are being invited to an open house to discuss proposed bylaw changes for development applications.

The City of Fort St. John has announced it is updating its development approval procedures and delegation bylaw to “speed up” the process of development approvals. 

According to a January 19th news release published on the city’s ‘Let’s Talk’ webpage, the bylaw is being updated to improve the approval process for applications of development permits, development variance permits and temporary use permits.

The city is inviting residents, property owners and developers to an open house on January 22nd from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Kids Arena Fieldhouse at 9615 96th Avenue in Fort St. John. 

The open house is being held in a “drop-in” style, where staff will be available to answer questions about the proposed bylaw changes for two hours.

The updated bylaw will speed up approval processes by clarifying policies, the notification process and processes for when qualified professionals are required to submit reports. 

During the drop-in open house, participants will have access to the proposed bylaw, planning and development staff and be able to ask questions about the changes and how they might impact development applications. 

The city has also published a ‘Let’s Talk webpage about development approvals.