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Real Estate > Land Development

Land Development

Turning raw land into usable property, whether for residential, commercial, or mixed use, requires navigating a complex mix of municipal bylaws, zoning laws, and provincial regulations. At GBC Law, we advise developers, investors, and landowners through every stage of the development process.

Common Legal Issues

  • Rezoning challenges and municipal approvals
  • Compliance with REDMA and strata property legislation
  • Requirements for subdivision or stratification
  • Navigating relationships with contractors

Why Legal Support is Critical

Land development often involves multiple stakeholders – municipalities, lenders, contractors, and end buyers. Coordinating legal requirements at each stage ensures your project stays on track and avoids costly setbacks.

Key Stages of Land Development

  • Acquisition – Reviewing title, zoning restrictions, and development potential before purchase.
  • Zoning and planning – Applying for rezoning, development permits, and variances.
  • Financing – Structuring financing arrangements and securing lender approval.
  • Construction contracts – Drafting agreements with builders, contractors, and trades.
  • Sales or leasing – Preparing agreements for eventual sale or lease of developed units.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between rezoning and a development permit?
Rezoning changes the official use of the land – for example, from single-family residential to multi-family residential or commercial. A development permit, on the other hand, approves the specific design, layout, and use of the property within the existing zoning. In many projects, you’ll need both: rezoning to allow your intended use, and a development permit to move ahead with construction.
Who determines the process for rezoning and obtaining a development permit?
The process is set by the local municipality or regional district. Each community in BC has its own zoning bylaws and planning requirements, which means timelines, application steps, and public hearing rules vary from place to place. Working with legal counsel ensures you meet local requirements and don’t miss critical deadlines.
When is a disclosure statement required under REDMA?
Under BC’s Real Estate Development Marketing Act (REDMA), a disclosure statement is required if you plan to market and sell development units (like condos or townhouses) before they are fully built and registered. The disclosure statement must provide prospective buyers with key information about the project, risks, and timelines. It’s a legal safeguard to ensure transparency in pre-sales.
When and how is a strata corporation created?
A strata corporation is created automatically when the strata plan is filed with the Land Title Office. From that point forward, the strata corporation is a legal entity responsible for managing common property, enforcing bylaws, and representing the collective interests of the unit owners.