FAQs
Technical plan audit and policy gap analysis of the existing plan
Updated community vision and guiding principles
Preparation of new policy directions
Significant stakeholder and public engagement
Where can I find the current Housing Needs Report and OCP?
Why is an update to the Housing Needs Report required?
Under the Local Government Act, municipalities in B.C. are required to complete Housing Needs Reports every five years. Fernie’s last HNR was approved in 2020, amended in February 2021, and again in late 2024. This project involves a comprehensive review of the memo included in the 2024 amendment, leading to a fully updated HNR and corresponding updates to the OCP.
The Province of BC’s Local Government Housing Initiatives set out in Bill 44, “Housing Statutes (Residential Development)” Amendment Act (2023), builds on this by requiring municipalities to use the findings of their HNRS to inform land use planning and zoning decisions.
A new HNR will support a more inclusive and responsive approach to housing that reflects the community’s unique needs, challenges, and aspirations.
Why is an interim OCP amendment required by December 2025?
While a comprehensive review and update of the OCP is underway, an interim amendment to the current OCP is required by December 2025 to include the findings from the HNR within the timelines established under the Province's Bill 44 legislation.
What does the overall OCP update include?
The OCP update includes a full review and update of the current OCP (2014):
Does this project include engagement with Indigenous communities?
Yes, throughout the project we will be engaging with Indigenous communities whose traditional territories encompass the City of Fernie. Our approach to Indigenous engagement is grounded in relationship building, respect, and reciprocity.