Every successful project begins long before the first shovel breaks ground. At Nexvan Construction Management, we handle the complex process of site development — combining technical preparation with city approvals and compliance. From rezoning to final servicing connections, we ensure your property is legally ready, structurally sound, and positioned for a smooth construction phase.
Rezoning & Land Use Approvals
In many municipalities, including Vancouver and North Vancouver, a property may need to be rezoned before development can proceed — for example, changing from single-family zoning (RS) to duplex, townhouse, or multi-family use (RT, RM, or CD zones).
Rezoning is a multi-step process that requires:
- Pre-application Consultation – Meeting with city planning staff to confirm land use policies, OCP (Official Community Plan), and neighborhood guidelines.
- Rezoning Application – Preparing and submitting architectural drawings, land use studies, and planning reports.
- Public Consultation – Community open houses or notifications, where neighbors can review and comment on the proposal.
- City Review & Recommendations—Staff evaluate compliance with zoning bylaws, design guidelines, traffic impact, and servicing requirements.
- Council Hearing & Approval—The city council considers rezoning bylaws; approval typically comes with conditions such as community amenity contributions (CACs) or infrastructure upgrades.
- Final Adoption – Once conditions are met, the property officially receives its new zoning designation.
- Nexvan works with planners, architects, and municipal staff throughout this process to minimize delays and ensure that rezoning aligns with both client goals and city requirements.
- Permits & Municipal Approvals
Following rezoning (if applicable), several permits are required before physical site work can begin:
- Demolition Permits – For removing existing structures.
- Tree Removal / Protection Permits – Compliance with urban forestry bylaws.
- Soil Removal / Deposit Permits – Required if large volumes of soil are excavated or added.
- Site Servicing Permits – For connecting to city water, sanitary sewer, and storm systems.
- Curb Crossing / Street Use Permits – For new driveways, temporary access, or material staging on public property.
- Environmental Permits – If the property is near creeks, green zones, or environmentally sensitive areas.
- We handle all documentation, coordinate directly with municipal departments, and schedule inspections to keep your project moving forward.
- Technical Site Preparation
- Once approvals are in place, our crews prepare the land:
- Clearing & Demolition – Removing old structures, vegetation, and debris.
- Excavation & Grading – Shaping the land for foundations, drainage, and access.
- Utility Servicing – Installing or upgrading underground services (water, sewer, drainage, gas, electrical).
- Erosion & Sediment Control – Protecting the site and neighbouring properties through city-mandated BMPs (Best Management Practices).
- Geotechnical & Soil Testing – Ensuring ground stability and applying ground improvements when needed.
- Temporary Access & Safety Measures – Setting up fencing, signage, and safe site access in compliance with WorkSafeBC and municipal bylaws.
Why Site Development Matters: Rezoning, permitting, and site preparation are often underestimated — yet they’re the most critical steps in protecting your investment. Mistakes here can cause project delays, unexpected costs, or compliance issues. At Nexvan, we take ownership of this process, combining technical expertise with regulatory knowledge to ensure your project begins on solid ground, both legally and structurally.
