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Message SUNSHINE COAST REGIONAL DISTRICTGood Neighbour Guide

2The Sunshine Coast Regional District is located on the territories of the shíshálh and Sḵwx̱ wú7mesh Nations.We each play a role in enhancing our neighbourhoods and contributing to the growth of our community in a helpful and positive way. The Sunshine Coast Regional District’s (SCRD) Good Neighbour Guide provides thoughtful recommendations and an overview of key bylaws that are frequently referenced by residents focusing on common sense and neighbourly actions.This guide covers a wide range of topics, including property maintenance, waste management, noise regulations, and pet ownership.While informal communication with neighbours is the best way of addressing many neighbourhood concerns, in situations when a conversation is not possible, please contact the SCRD's Bylaw Enforcement Services to make an enquiry or file a complaint. CONTACT + MORE INFORMATION:Bylaw Enforcement: 604-885-6817 bylaw.compliance@scrd.ca www.scrd.ca/bylaw-enforcement

3Table of ContentsProperty Development and Building PermitsDesigning Your New House or Addition 4Demolishing Buildings 6Constructing Auxiliary Buildings 7Decks 8Fences 9Retaining Walls 10On and Around Your PropertyUntidy Properties 11Noise 12Burning and Fireworks 13Culverts 14Stream and Watershed Protection 15Tree Removal 15Home-Based Business 16Short Term Rentals 17Civic Addressing 18Keeping of Poultry, Rabbits or Livestock 19Wildlife Attractants 20Waste and Recycling 21Water Conservation Regulations 23Responsible Pet OwnershipDog Licensing 24Lost Pets and Nuisances 25Pets in Public Places 25Dogs Running at Large 25Neighbourhood Emergency PreparednessEmergency Alert System 27Protecting Your Home From Wildfires 28

4The SCRD’s Building and Planning Divisions provide information and approvals for new developments and building permits in the SCRD. On the next few pages you will find general information on some common building projects. Designing Your New House or AdditionWhen designing your new home, or an addition to your existing home, take a close look at your neighbourhood. Being a good neighbour means asking yourself questions in the early stages of the design process such as: • How will my new house or addition fit with my neighbourhood?• How will my design affect my neighbours?There are many design choices that could directly impact your neighbours and neighbourhood, such as parking, view corridors and retaining walls. Consider how your design will affect the livability and enjoyment of your neighbour’s home and yard.Property Development and Building Permits

5Good neighbours are sensitive to their neighbour’s livability and ask themselves questions, such as:• Where are my neighbour’s windows and how does my window design affect their privacy? • How will the shadowing from my new home or addition impact my neighbour’s vegetable garden? • Is my new home going to reduce the livability of my neighbour’s home? • Have I considered my neighbour’s view? The SCRD encourages residents to engage in conversations with their neighbours about any outwardly-visible construction plans before they are finalized. This helps avoid potential conflicts between neighbours, and results in building designs that are better for the entire neighbourhood.

6Demolishing BuildingsThe demolition of an existing building is sometimes the first step in the process for constructing a new home. Although this can be an exciting time in the development process, it can cause some inconvenience for your neighbours. At this stage, here are things to think about that may significantly impact others: • A Lane Closure or Access Permit;• Hours of construction, as outlined in the Noise Control Bylaw;• Securing your demolition with perimetre fencing; and • Stacking and piling material neatly.CONTACT + MORE INFORMATION:Building: 604-885-6803 building@scrd.ca www.scrd.ca/building

7Constructing Auxiliary BuildingsA building permit is required for most auxiliary buildings, such as a detached garage or workshop. Unoccupied auxiliary buildings under 10 square metres (108 square feet), like a shed, do not require a building permit. Auxiliary buildings, regardless of size, must be located in accordance with the SCRD's Zoning Bylaws. The maximum size of an auxiliary building on a property can be found under the property’s specific zoning regulations in the SCRD's Zoning Bylaws. CONTACT + MORE INFORMATION:Planning: 604-885-6804 planning@scrd.ca www.scrd.ca/zoning-bylaws

8DecksA building permit is required for a deck that is more than 0.6 metres (2 feet) above the ground or if the deck is attached to a building or supports a roof structure. A deck requiring a building permit must meet the setbacks for the structure it is attached to, as outlined in the SCRD’s Zoning Bylaws. Consider your neighbours when designing a new deck. Think about how your deck will impact a neighbour’s privacy, or if it will cast a shadow on your neighbour’s vegetable garden or flower bed.CONTACT + MORE INFORMATION:Building: 604-885-6803 building@scrd.ca www.scrd.ca/permits

9FencesIn most cases a permit is not required for a fence. Fences should not exceed 2.0 metres (6.5 feet) in height. Fences have the potential to significantly impact neighbouring properties with decisions over location, height, material, etc. A good neighbour considers the potential impact and talks to neighbours before constructing a new fence. Fences must be located entirely on your property. If you are considering a new fence, you must confirm the location of the property lines first. Legal plans can be obtained for a fee from the Land Title and Survey Authority of British Columbia (LTSA).CONTACT + MORE INFORMATION:LTSA: 604-630-9630 customerservice@ltsa.ca www.ltsa.ca

10Retaining WallsA building permit is required for all retaining walls greater than 1.2 metres (4 feet) in height. A series of retaining walls with a slope ratio of 2 horizontals to 1 vertical (2H:1V) or greater may also require a building permit. Retaining walls cannot encroach onto any right-of-way or easement. If a retaining wall exists on your property, you are responsible for its maintenance and repair. Retaining walls exceeding certain heights must be set and stepped back from lot lines. CONTACT + MORE INFORMATION:Building: 604-885-6803 building@scrd.ca www.scrd.ca/permits

11On and Around Your PropertyUntidy PropertiesBe conscious of the outward appearance of your property and its effect on your neighbourhood. Loose garbage, green waste, bottles, cans, boxes, household furniture, parts of machinery or automobiles, equipment and appliances should be stored so they are not visible from outside of the property. Unlicensed vehicles should be stored inside a garage. Building materials should not accumulate unless an owner can demonstrate that construction or renovation is about to happen. In that case, materials should be kept tidy and stacked in an orderly manner.

12NoisePlease be considerate and do not create excessive noise that will disturb your neighbours. Excessive noise includes yelling, loud music, barking dogs and vehicle engine revving. Noise from equipment such as heat pumps and pool equipment can also be very disturbing to your neighbours. You can also: • place the noise-generating equipment in a small enclosure; • install a sound dampening fence/shroud; • surround the equipment with dense plants and shrubs. Noise from equipment must comply with the SCRD’s Noise Control Bylaw. CONTACT + MORE INFORMATION:Bylaw Enforcement: 604-885-6817 bylaw.compliance@scrd.ca www.scrd.ca/bylaws

13BurningDo not burn any household garbage, plastics, toxic or painted materials, etc. as the smoke may be toxic and harmful to people and the environment. Fire regulations vary by area. Contact your local fire department at www.scrd.ca/fire-departments for details. A good neighbour ensures that the smoke generated from a fire is minimal and does not disturb neighbours or the neighbourhood. In case of emergency, call 911. FireworksThe SCRD does not have bylaws that regulate fireworks. Please contact your local fire department or the RCMP regarding regulations. If neighbours are disturbed by the noise of fireworks, they can put in a complaint regulated by the SCRD’s Noise Control Bylaw.CONTACT + MORE INFORMATION:Bylaw Enforcement: 604-885-6817 bylaw.compliance@scrd.ca www.scrd.ca/bylaw-complaint-form

14Culverts If a residence has a culvert passing under its driveway, it is the responsibility of the resident to maintain it and to keep it clear of debris. Culverts marked on the graphic above as “Road maintenance contractors responsibility” are the responsibility of the Ministry of Transportation and Transit and Capilano Highways on the Sunshine Coast. Concerns about culverts, parking or roadways should be referred to the Ministry of Transportation and Transit. CONTACT + MORE INFORMATION: Ministry of Transportation and Transit: 604-527-2221

15Stream and Watershed ProtectionAvoid disrupting stream setbacks and channels. Unauthorized activities in these areas may violate federal, provincial, and local laws.Stream setback distances are identified in the SCRD’s Zoning Bylaws. Never dispose of any materials, such as paints or cleaning products into household toilets and sinks, or onto outside soil, ditches or streams. During construction projects, keep wet concrete away from all streams on or near the site. Keep pets away from streams and stream setbacks. Residents looking to environmentally enhance a setback must consult with the SCRD. Tree RemovalA Tree Removal Permit may be required for the removal of trees on private property if:• You are located in a restricted tree cutting area.• The trees and/or vegetation are within a Streamside Protection and Enhancement Area.• The tree(s) are protected by a covenant (see your title certificate).CONTACT + MORE INFORMATION:Planning: 604-885-6804 planning@scrd.ca www.scrd.ca/planning

16Home-Based Businesses Before setting up a home-based business, you should confirm whether the SCRD's Zoning Bylaws permit one in your zone. The SCRD's Property Viewer can be used to find your property zoning. Visit www.scrd.ca/mapping.Some neighbourhoods have very restrictive regulations about the type of home-based business that is permitted. Consider your neighbours when you have guests or customers attending your home-based business and provide parking for them off the street.You can place one 30cm x 30cm (12” x 12”) non-illuminated sign on your property advertising your home-based business.CONTACT + MORE INFORMATION:Mapping: 604-885-6805 mapping@scrd.ca www.scrd.ca/mapping

17Short Term Rentals The SCRD regulates short-term rentals within the following rural areas: Pender Harbour/Egmont (Area A) Halfmoon Bay (Area B) Roberts Creek (Area D) Elphinstone (Area E) West Howe Sound (Area F)Business licenses for short-term rentals are not required in the SCRD Electoral Areas. Short-term rentals in the SCRD are regulated by two zoning bylaws —Zoning Bylaw 337 for Area A and Zoning Bylaw 722 for all the other rural electoral areas. If you wish to operate a short-term rental, you must be registered with the BC provincial short-term rental registry and you must adhere to the regulations in the above mentioned zoning bylaws. Failure to do so could result in bylaw enforcement action. If there is a short-term rental in your neighbourhood that is not following these regulations, please report it to Bylaw Enforcement.CONTACT + MORE INFORMATION:Planning: 604-885-6804 planning@scrd.ca www.scrd.ca/short-term-rentals

18Civic Addressing The SCRD maintains a formal civic addressing system for all electoral areas including the Town of Gibsons, the District of Sechelt, the shíshálh Nation Government District, as well as the islands. The consistent numbering of buildings and suites in the SCRD, together with their street names, helps emergency response, mail delivery, and the public find the specific building they are looking for. Every home and business is required to display an assigned number. When displaying a civic address, it is suggested that the numbers be 3 inches to 5 inches high. Dark numbers on a white background are the most visible. Civic addresses are generally issued at the time of application for a building permit. The civic address is based on the location of the driveway serving the property and the location of the building on the property. CONTACT + MORE INFORMATION:Mapping: 604-885-6805 mapping@scrd.cawww.scrd.ca/addressing

19Keeping of Poultry, Rabbits or Livestock In most zones, on a parcel having an area of 1,500 square metres or more, the keeping of poultry or rabbits for domestic purposes is permitted provided that: • poultry and rabbits are kept in pens or similar enclosures. • structures or buildings for keeping poultry or rabbits, drinking or feeding troughs, and manure piles are located 15 metres away from a parcel line except for enclosure fences under two metres in height. In most zones, the keeping of livestock, such as domestic farm animals, is permitted on a parcel of land having an area of 3,500 square metres or more providing that: • the keeping of livestock is for domestic purposes only.• structures or buildings for keeping livestock, drinking or feeding troughs, manure, feed storage and bedding are located 20 metres away from a parcel line.CONTACT + MORE INFORMATION:Planning: 604-885-6804 planning@scrd.cawww.scrd.ca/planning

20Wildlife Attractants The SCRD discourages any person from keeping attractants on their premises that are accessible to wildlife. Collaborate with your neighbours so that your immediate neighbourhood follows preventative measures to reduce human-wildlife conflicts. To discourage wildlife from scavenging overnight, put your garbage and food waste out in a closed container in the morning (before 8:00 a.m.) on your collection day. After collection, bring your bin inside and keep your bins clean. Wildlife attractants include: • odorous garbage and unwashed recycling • fruit-bearing plants and trees • piled grass clippings • bird feeders • chicken coops • dirty barbeques • accessible pet food • poorly maintained compost (not frequently mixed and aerated, or containing unacceptable items).CONTACT + MORE INFORMATION:Report All Poachers and Polluters: 1-877-952-7277infrastructure@scrd.cawww.scrd.ca/curbside

21Waste and Recycling The SCRD offers garbage and food waste curbside collection in Halfmoon Bay, Roberts Creek, Elphinstone and West Howe Sound. Egmont and Pender Harbour residents can take their garbage and food waste to the Pender Harbour Transfer Station. The SCRD's Waste Collection Bylaw provides households with collection of a maximum of one garbage and one food waste container that should be placed at the end of the driveway on the day of collection by 8:00 a.m. Garbage: residents are responsible for maintaining their own garbage can. Garbage is collected every other week. Garbage containers should be waterproof and of heavy plastic or light weight galvanized sheeting with a close-fitting lid, and a maximum capacity of 77 litres and of not more than 20 kg gross weight when filled with collectible garbage. Any device such as a rope or bungee chord that is securing the lid must be removed.Recycling: The SCRD does not provide curbside recycling pickup. Most packaging and printed paper can be taken to recycling depots located in Gibsons, Sechelt and Pender Harbour. For additional information or to find out what is accepted for recycling at each depot, call 604-885-6806 or go to www.scrd.ca/recycling-depots.

22Food Waste: Food waste is collected weekly. The SCRD provides a 45-litre green bin. The maximum weight that can be collected is 20 kilograms (44 lbs). Compostable plastic bags allowed as bin liners must say “BPI Certified Compostable”. The SCRD manages a transfer station in Pender Harbour and a landfill in Sechelt. Disposal fees are charged for accepted materials brought to the landfill or transfer station and vary from one material to another. For information on disposal fees and accepted materials, go to www.scrd.ca/disposal-fees.Illegal dumping is a major concern on the Sunshine Coast. To report an illegal dump site, please call the BC Conservation Service RAPP (Report All Poachers and Polluters) line: 1-877-952-7277.Green waste can be dropped-off at locations in Gibsons, Sechelt and Pender Harbour. For more information on locations, restrictions or fees, go to www.scrd.ca/green-waste.CONTACT + MORE INFORMATION:Infrastructure: 604-885-6806infrastructure@scrd.cawww.scrd.ca/curbside

23Water Conservation Regulations Water is a precious natural resource that we all rely on and that should not be taken for granted. Water conservation regulations come into effect on May 1 annually as with many other regions in the Province, or as guided by the region’s Drought Response Plan. Regulations are in place to promote water conservation and ensure water supply and treatment systems can meet the large seasonal increase in outdoor water use during drought prone summer months. Water conservation regulations are enforced, and consequences range from fines to shutting off water services. Water conservation regulation stages may be called at different times in different communities. Please respect the SCRD's Water Rates and Regulations Bylaw, and your neighbours, by watering your lawn only within designated days and times. CONTACT + MORE INFORMATION:Infrastructure: 604-885-6806infrastructure@scrd.cawww.scrd.ca/water-regulations

24Responsible Pet OwnershipDog Licensing The SCRD encourages responsible pet ownership through licensing, public education and enforcement. The SCRD's Bylaw No. 376 requires all dog owners living in Halfmoon Bay, Roberts Creek, Elphinstone, mainland of West Howe Sound (and Keats Island), and the shíshálh Nation Government District to register, number and license their dog(s) over the age of three months by January 31 of each year. The SCRD issues your dog a “permanent tag” – you will not receive a new tag every year. Dog licences go on sale on December 1 and are valid from January 1 to December 31. If you are purchasing a new dog license tag or you have lost an existing tag and need a replacement, please visit our Field Road office located at 1975 Field Road, Sechelt, Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CONTACT + MORE INFORMATION:Bylaw Enforcement: 604-885-6817 bylaw.compliance@scrd.ca www.scrd.ca/dog-control

25Lost Pets and Nuisances If your pet has gone missing, or you have found a stray pet, please contact the Sunshine Coast Branch of the BC SPCA at 604-740-0301 or a local veterinarian. When off their property, pet owners should pick up and properly dispose of their animal’s waste. Owners should ensure that their animals do not disturb neighbours by barking or howling. Pets in Public Places Dogs must be on a leash in all SCRD parks, sports fields, and trails as per the SCRD's Parks Regulation Bylaw. Make sure that dogs are wearing a licence tag on their collar. Pets should be kept away from streams. Animal waste is polluting and harmful to wildlife and the environment. Dogs are not permitted in waterparks and cemeteries and should not be running loose in playgrounds. Dogs Running At LargeDogs found running at large can be impounded and taken to the Sunshine Coast Branch of the BC SPCA located at 4376 Solar Road, off Field Road in Sechelt, where the dog will be cared for until it is collected by its owner. To report a dog running at large or to file a complaint, please complete all the fields on the bylaw complaint form at www.scrd.ca/bylaw-complaint-form.

26Neighbourhood Emergency PreparednessLiving in the same neighbourhood, you and your neighbours face the same risks. That means you’ll also endure the same impacts. Working together will make it easier to prepare for an emergency. Consider the following:• Connect with your neighbours and work together on preparing a neighbourhood emergency preparedness plan. • Discuss potential risks and household preparedness with your neighbours. • Identify a predetermined safe meeting place to evaluate an emergency situation and what needs to be done. • Ensure that you and your neighbours have enough non-perishable food to support your family for at least three days. • Identify someone who will be responsible for organizing a get-together to review and update the neighbourhood emergency preparedness plan each year and consider rotating the responsibility of host each year.

27Emergency Alert SystemIn times of an emergency, it is important that residents have access to trusted, timely and accurate information to ensure their own safety and that of their family and loved ones. In response to this need, the SCRD uses Voyent Alert! as the communication service provider for emergency events.Voyent Alert! is a multi-purpose communication service used to send alerts to residents, businesses, and visitors on the Sunshine Coast during events like earthquakes, fires or floods.Information on this service and how to sign up can be found here: www.scrd.ca/alert-systemCONTACT + MORE INFORMATION:Emergency Program: 604-885-6887 emergency.program@scrd.ca www.scrd.ca/emergency-program

28Protecting your Home from Wildfires Every year in BC, people and properties are threatened by wildfires. As many of these fires occur in areas where homes, cabins and subdivisions are built into the forest landscape, individual property owners can and should help reduce the risk of wildfire affecting their properties.The SCRD FireSmart program is the only FireSmart BC accredited program on the Sunshine Coast and is dedicated to reducing wildfire risk to properties and homes through public education. The goal of FireSmart is to empower homeowners to increase their resilience to wildfire on their properties and in their neighbourhoods. Sunshine Coast residents and neighbourhoods can request a FREE wildfire hazard assessment that offers advice on ways to reduce fire risks.For more information, visit www.scrd.ca/firesmart.

29Contact UsAfter Hours Water Service Issues 1-866-291-4645General Enquiries 604-885-6800 info@scrd.caBuilding Inspections 604-885-6803 building@scrd.caBylaw Enforcement and Animal Control604-885-6817 bylaw.compliance@scrd.caCemetery 604-885-6802 parks@scrd.caCurbside Collection 604-885-6806 infrastructure@scrd.caDocks 604-885-6800 ports@scrd.caEmergency Program 604-885-6887 emergency.program@scrd.caHuman Resources 604-885-6807 employment@scrd.caMapping 604-885-6805 mapping@scrd.caParks 604-885-6802 parks@scrd.caPlanning and Zoning 604-885-6804 planning@scrd.caRecreation 604-885-6801 recreation@scrd.caTransit 604-885-6899Utility Billing 604-885-6806 infrastructure@scrd.ca

Address: 1975 Field Road Sechelt, BC V7Z 0A8Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.Phone: 604-885-6800Email: info@scrd.cawww.scrd.caSUNSHINE COAST REGIONAL DISTRICTThe Sunshine Coast Regional District does not provide the following services:• Maintenance of roads and snow removal• Issuing property taxes• Development services outside the regional district• Removal of hazard trees on private property• Removal of invasive plant species• Ferry service