How Bylaw 1230 Affects Harrison Hot Springs

What Bylaw 1230 Changes

Based on the agenda/notice and draft text:

• Bylaw 1230 introduces a zoning amendment to implement revised policy from the Official Community Plan (OCP) for Harrison Hot Springs. harrisonhotsprings.ca+1

• It updates definitions and uses related to housing types — including “employee housing,” “housing cooperatives,” “non-market housing,” and “supportive housing.” (From earlier meeting discussion; the bylaw document includes these definitions) harrisonhotsprings.ca+1

• It modifies the zoning bylaw so that these housing types are permitted in all residential zones of the village (subject to certain regulations). For example, under an R-zone a supportive housing facility could be allowed under different setback or lot rules. (As explained in staff commentary during the meeting)

• The bylaw lifts a requirement for a “public hearing” in certain cases when these zones or uses are amended — in line with recent provincial legislation on housing. For example, a notice states: “A local government must not hold a public hearing on a proposed zoning bylaw if …” (which is referenced in the staff memo) harrisonhotsprings.ca+1

• It appears to increase maximum building height for these uses (e.g., supportive housing) from the previous 10 m or 11 m to up to 13 m (four storeys) in certain zones. (From council meeting discussion)

⚠️ What the Village Stays in Control Of

Although Bylaw 1230 expands permitted uses, the village retains control of key elements:

• Zoning bylaw still applies — the village continues to specify zone classifications (R1, R2, R3, etc.). Staff commentary confirms: “The R1 or R2 or R3 or R4 or R5 zones will still exist.” harrisonhotsprings.ca

• Setbacks, lot‐width and lot-size minimums remain for many uses (though exemptions exist under this bylaw for the specific housing uses).

• The village still needs to apply building permits, ensure bylaws are enforced, and manage land use policy consistent with provincial and local legislation.

🔍 Why This Matters for Residents

The effects of Bylaw 1230 include:

• Increased density potential: With supportive, non-market and employee housing allowed more broadly, more housing units may be built — which changes neighbourhood character, parking demand, visual appearance, and infrastructure load.

• Height & building scale changes: The increased maximum height (13 m / four‐storey) can shift what types of buildings appear in formerly lower-scale zones (10 m / three-storey).

• Fewer procedural hurdles: Public hearings may be bypassed under certain conditions, meaning less opportunity for resident input in some cases.

• Infrastructure pressures: More housing in existing zones means added demands on water, sewer, roads, parking, and community services — which ties into the utility/reserve issues you’re tracking.