INFORMATION RELEASE

The Regional District of Okanagan‑Similkameen (RDOS) is inviting residents to review and provide feedback on the draft Okanagan Valley Electoral Area Official Community Plan (OCP).

The draft OCP proposes to consolidate the existing Official Community Plan bylaws for Electoral Areas “A”, “C”, “D”, “E”, and “F” into a single, comprehensive planning document for the Okanagan Valley.

An Official Community Plan is a long‑term policy framework that outlines a community’s vision and establishes goals and policies to guide decisions related to land use, housing, infrastructure, environmental protection, and community services. By transitioning from five separate bylaws to one consolidated OCP, the RDOS aims to improve consistency, clarity, and efficiency in land‑use planning across the valley.

“The release of this draft OCP represents a significant milestone in streamlining regional planning,” said Mark Pendergraft, RDOS Chair. “Residents are encouraged to review the draft and share their feedback to help ensure the plan reflects the long‑term vision and priorities of Okanagan Valley communities.”

Key features of the draft OCP include:

• Consolidated policy framework with unified objectives for growth management, housing, and agriculture across the Okanagan Valley.
• Updated map schedules, including comprehensive mapping for hazard lands, environmentally sensitive areas, parks and trails, and public facilities.
• Modernized regulations aligned with current Provincial legislation and the South Okanagan Regional Growth Strategy (RGS).

How to participate

The RDOS is committed to an open and transparent planning process. Residents can view the draft OCP text and map schedules by visiting the project web page at rdos.bc.ca (Property & Development > Planning > Strategic Projects > Okanagan Valley Electoral Area Official Community Plan [OCP]).

Public input opportunities include:

• Online feedback: Written comments can be submitted by completing a Feedback Form available on the RDOS website until April 17, 2026. Feedback Forms must be mailed or delivered to the Regional District office at 101 Martin Street or emailed to planning@rdos.bc.ca by 4:00 pm, April 17, 2026.
• Public information meetings: The RDOS will host public information meetings in the coming weeks. Dates, times, and locations will be posted on the project web page.

Following the public comment period, RDOS staff will review the feedback received and present a summary to the Regional Board. The draft OCP may be refined before advancing to formal readings and a Public Hearing.

For further information, please contact the RDOS Planning Department at 250‑492‑0237 or email planning@rdos.bc.ca.

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Mark Pendergraft, Chair
Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen

Contact:
RDOS Communications
250-490-4148
Toll-free 1-877-610-3737