Board of Variance

The Fraser Valley Regional District is currently seeking 3 members of the public to serve a 3 year term on the Board of Variance (BOV).

The BOV is an independent body that considers requests from property owners for minor relaxations to the FVRD's Zoning Bylaw. These variances are typically regarding the siting, size and dimensions of buildings that would cause a person undue hardship. The British Columbia Local Government Act requires local governments that have adopted a zoning bylaw to establish a BOV.

Membership

The BOV membership is comprised of 3 people who are appointed by the FVRD Board of Directors. All members can be reappointed and there is no limit on the number of terms a member may serve. The next BOV term is from August 1, 2024 to July 31, 2027.

Board Member Duties

BOV members are expected to read all materials included in each hearing package and ensure they keep the information confidential prior to the hearing. Site visits are not required of members but are strongly encouraged. The members will attend the hearing and then determine whether the application is approved due to undue hardship or if it is denied. Once a motion is passed, the decision is final.

The members of the BOV will elect one member as Chair.

Remuneration

Members of the BOV will serve in a volunteer capacity and will not be paid for their attendance at meetings. However, members are entitled to receive payment for expenses incurred in the conduct of their official duties including: transportation to and from their home or office to meetings of the board and inspection trips to view sites involved in appeals.

Eligibility

As per Division 15 - Board of Variance, Section 536 of the Local Government Act:

(2) A person is not eligible to be appointed to a board of variance if the person is

(a) a member of the local government or the advisory planning commission, or

(b) an officer or employee of the local government.

The application period is now open for the FVRD's upcoming BOV term. To apply, simply fill out the application form and email it to info@fvrd.ca. Applications will be received until June 7, 2024.

Board of Variance Application Form

Previous BOV agendas and minutes can be viewed on the FVRD's website.