Development Services
Development Services at the District of Sooke include the Planning, Engineering and Building Departments. Each of these departments plays an important role in the development process, from projects as simple as construction of a shed on a property to as complex as rezoning and subdivision.
Staff work with developers to ensure projects comply with Council policies, bylaws and provincial and federal regulations in the creation of subdivisions, construction of roads and utilities associated with development, as well as the construction of buildings. Consultation with other District departments and outside agencies is also undertaken by Development Services staff to ensure projects move forward in a smooth and timely manner.
For those looking for information about developing in Sooke but aren't sure where to start, this is the place for you. Development Services is the first stop for anyone interested in developing their property. Staff offer the public the opportunity to meet with the Development Services team every Thursday which has been set aside for “Pre-Application Meetings”. These meetings provide potential applicants with the chance to have a preliminary discussion with staff from all three departments prior to moving forward with an application.
To help point you in the right direction, the following is a short introduction to what each department does. Once you have determined where you need to start, click on the handy links below for more detailed information.
Building Department - responsible for the approval of residential, commercial, institutional and industrial construction within the Municipality.
Engineering Department – responsible for the review of development engineering design and servicing requirements as well as all development-associated construction to ensure it meets District bylaw requirements.
Planning Department – responsible for the provision of Planning Services, both long range and current, as well as the review of development proposals and the provision of general development information. This is often your first stop if you are considering development in the District of Sooke.
Subdivision Approvals – the Subdivision Approving Officer is responsible for reviewing all subdivision applications for compliance with District bylaws, as well as provincial and federal regulations. The Approving Officer is a member of the Engineering Department.