How much time does this take?

Development Approvals are processed on a first-come, first-served basis, and both the number of applications in the system, and the complexity of each one can affect the timing.  A proposal which comes in with a complete application and all the supporting documents takes at least six weeks to reach Preliminary Layout Approval stage. The typical time for approval varies around the province due to seasonal conditions and staffing levels within and outside the Ministry of Transportation. Ministry of Transportation staff can give you a time estimate when you apply. 

After you have received Preliminary Layout Approval, you have a year to complete servicing of your development and submit plans for the Final Approval.  Final Approval takes up to 60 days maximum. 

Approved plans must be registered at the Land Title and Survey Authority within 60 days.

What could cause the application to take longer?

If your application is incomplete, it cannot be processed.  Applications are dealt with on a “first come, first served” basis, and your proposal can spend time in the queue, only to be handed back with a request for more information.  Please make sure you have included all the information listed on our checklists as you prepare your preliminary application.

Review by other agencies can take longer in some cases, such as if your application is referred to other agencies for their comments and recommendations.  While the Ministry makes every effort to expedite the process, you may wish to contact the referral agency directly to try to resolve issues which have reached an impasse or are delayed due to lack of information.  For instance the Health Authorities may not understand your intent with respect to drinking water or sewage disposal. (These issues can often be resolved by discussion and perhaps modifications to your proposal).  A Regional District may have a land use or zoning concern which can often be resolved by direct contact rather than the Ministry acting as an intermediary for you.

Add more time, if applicable, for the Agricultural Land Commission, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, and the Islands Trust to comment. Any investigation by professionals will also take additional time.