Advisory Planning Commission
An Advisory Planning Commission (APC) advises local trust committees on land use planning and community planning applications and projects. The local trust committee may appoint APCs though they are not required.
The local trust committee establishes the term and number of members through an APC Bylaw. Most terms are two years. At least two-thirds of the APC membership must be residents of the local trust area.
We advertise opportunities for serving on the APC on Expressions of Interest, and in local newspapers when they become available. Members serve without pay.
Board of Variances
A Board of Variance (BOV) is an independent body that makes orders about specific land-use regulations. Local trust committees must appoint a BOV. One BOV may be established for multiple local trust areas.
The term and number of members are established by Provincial legislation. In the Islands Trust Area, all BOVs comprise three members who serve a three-year term. The term does not lapse, and the member continues as a BOV member until a replacement is appointed.
BOVs considers variances to local trust committee bylaw regulations when the variance is minor and the regulation causes undue hardship (as determined by the BOV). BOVs also have some special powers, such as issuing orders to permit development where it may be prohibited as an expansion of a legal non-conforming use.
We advertise opportunities for serving on the BOV on Expressions of Interest, and in local papers when they become available. Members serve without pay.
Resources
Salt Spring Island Local Trust Area
To support the update to the Official Community Plan (OCP) and Land Use Bylaw (LUB), we are seeking community members to serve on the Advisory Planning Commissions (APC) and Board of Variance (BOV). These volunteer roles provide an opportunity to help shape land use policies and regulations that will guide the future of Salt Spring Island.
Project Advisory Planning Commission – OCP-LUB
The Project Advisory Planning Commission consists of up to 7 members. They advise the SS LTC on community engagement plans, implementing communication strategies, connecting the project team with key interest groups, and promoting diverse community involvement in the OCP review process. You will communicate with the SS LTC through the APC chair, with your recommendations being considered but not binding. Appointments are for a 2-year term
Advisory Planning Commission
The Advisory Planning Commission (APC) consists of up to 11 members. It advises the LTC on community planning and development matters including Official Community Plan and Land Use Bylaw changes, development applications, and LTC projects. Appointments are for a 2-year term.
Agricultural Advisory Planning Commission
The Agricultural Advisory Planning Commission (AAPC) consists of up to 7 members. It advises the LTC on community planning and development related to farming and agriculture such as Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) applications and current projects. Applicants should have a background in farming or agriculture. Appointments are for a 2-year term.
Board Of Variance
Reviews and makes decisions on Board of Variance applications. Individuals with previous local government experience and a background in land use planning and development are encouraged to apply. Commission consists of 3 members and appointments are for a 3-year term with infrequent meetings.
If you are interested, please submit a completed application and resume by 4:30 pm March 28, 2025.
Download and complete the application form, and send it to ssiinfo@islandstrust.bc.ca to apply. Read more about Advisory Commissions and Boards of Variance and the Salt Spring Island Official Community Plan Review.