New development fees took effect last week in Courtenay.
Courtenay City Council approved updated development cost charges and amenity cost charges, which took effect April 30.
Development cost charges and amenity cost charges are one-time fees developers pay to help fund infrastructure and amenities needed to support community growth.
The city said the last update to development cost charge rates came in 2016. The new rates reflect changes in infrastructure planning, growth projections and provincial legislation.
Applicants with projects already in process are encouraged to check whether they qualify for in-stream protection, which may allow them to pay the previous rate for up to one year after the new bylaws are adopted.
To qualify, applications must have been submitted before the bylaw adoption, be complete to the city’s satisfaction and have all required fees paid.
The city said different criteria may apply depending on whether the application involves a building permit, rezoning, development permit or subdivision.
In-stream protection expires one year after the bylaw adoption date. After that, all applications, including extensions, will be subject to the new rates.
Full details on the updated rates, in-stream protection criteria and payment options are available on the city’s website.
