FAQs

An OCP is a policy document that helps to shape the future of the community. It provides an overarching vision and framework to guide land use decisions for the next 15-20 years. An OCP sets priorities and provides direction on topics such as: land use and growth areas, housing, servicing (water and sewer), hazard avoidance, and protection of the environment.

The current Official Community Plans for the Fraser Canyon were adopted in the 1990s and no longer reflect today’s realities. The existing plans do not fully address current needs related to housing, climate change, emergency preparedness, infrastructure, and reconciliation.

In addition, the Fraser Canyon communities function as a connected corridor with shared challenges such as limited developable land, aging infrastructure, and exposure to natural hazards. Maintaining two separate plans can lead to inconsistencies and inefficiencies when addressing these shared issues.

The update is also happening now because the Regional District has recently completed several major studies, including the Fraser Canyon Complete Community Assessment and updated geohazard assessments. These provide a strong, up-to-date foundation of data, technical analysis, and community input, making it an ideal time to consolidate and modernize the plans.

Overall, this update will create a single, coordinated plan that reflects current conditions, aligns with legislation, and provides clear, consistent direction to guide future decision-making in the Fraser Canyon.

OCP polices do not apply to First Nation reserves. The OCP applies to land surrounding First Nations reserves; however, we have shared interests in planning for the future. FVRD will be seeking opportunities to work collaboratively with Boothroyd Indian Band, Boston Bar First Nation, Shxw’ōwhámél First Nation, Spuzzum First Nation, Union Bar First Nation, and Yale First Nation, as well as other communities with interests in the plan area.