News & Updates

Sparwood Seeks Community Input on Zoning and Parking Bylaws

The District of Sparwood is calling on residents to help shape the community’s future through the 2025 Zoning and Parking Bylaw Survey, now open to the public.

With the District’s Zoning Bylaw dating back to 1981 and the Off-Street Parking and Loading Bylaw adopted in 1988, both sets of regulations are due for a comprehensive overhaul. The new bylaw aims to better reflect modern development patterns and changing land use needs.

Why This Matters
The Zoning Bylaw sets the rules for how land in Sparwood can be used as well as what types of buildings are allowed, where they can be placed on a lot, and how big they can be. While it doesn’t regulate building safety or construction methods—that’s governed by BC Building Code—it plays a crucial role in shaping the character and livability of the community.

The Off-Street Parking Bylaw determines how many vehicle parking and loading spaces must be provided for homes and businesses, as well as the size and layout of those spaces. Current parking rules no longer reflect today's land use patterns or the evolving needs of residents and businesses.

Have Your Say, Win a Prize
Residents are invited to complete a survey to share their opinions on potential changes. Topics include housing types, lot sizes, yard setbacks, tiny homes, accessory buildings, home businesses, and parking requirements.

All survey participants will be entered to win a $50 gift card—a small thank you for helping guide the future of Sparwood.

What We’ve Heard So Far
This new round of public engagement builds on a 2019 community survey, where 275 residents shared their thoughts on zoning and parking. Key takeaways included:

•   Residential :
  • 76% supported increasing lot coverage limits.
  • 80% supported reducing front yard setbacks.
  • 60% supported allowing tiny homes, preferably in dedicated developments.
  • 64% supported modular homes that resemble traditional houses.
• Commercial and Industrial:
  • Strong support for more flexible uses in downtown.
  • 82% supported greater lot coverage in industrial zones.
• Parking and General Concerns:
  • 69% reported parking issues, mainly due to limited off-street options.
  • 61% cited parking challenges related to short-term rentals.
  • Mixed opinions on shipping containers and home occupation rules.

Get Involved
The goal of this survey is to make sure the new bylaws reflect the needs and priorities of the people who live and work here. 

The survey is open until July 31, 2025.
To participate and enter the prize draw, visit: https://bit.ly/DOSzoning