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MattersEnvironmentBylaw Nos. 2268 & 2269First seen Aug 19, 2024Last discussed Jul 20, 2026

Design guidelines and tree protection bylaws

Adopted

The changes update Langford’s form-and-character design guidelines and environmental development permit area maps, and replace the existing tree-protection bylaw. They also amend zoning rules for garden and carriage suites and shared outdoor amenity space.

Where it stands: Design and tree protection bylaws adopted Jul 20, 2026.

What's proposed: Design guidelines and tree protection bylaws
What's proposed · from the staff report · View report

Background

Earlier and later steps of the same initiative.

  1. Jun 16, 2025

    Development design guidelines update

    The city plans to update design rules for multifamily, commercial, industrial and other development, including the City Centre and Sooke Road areas. The work includes research, public engagement and a feasibility report on an advisory design panel, with a $150,000 budget and target completion in the second quarter of 2026.

  2. Jul 20, 2026

    City-wide design and zoning changes

    Proposed city-wide rules would guide building design and landscaping, change suite access and private outdoor-space requirements, and increase the riparian buffer from 43 to 45 metres. Townhouse and apartment projects with more than 20 units would need amenity space, shaping how future development looks and uses land across Langford.

Timeline

Every time this matter appeared in council records, newest first.

  1. July 20, 2026· Council

    Design changes and tree protection bylaw adopted

    Adopted 6–0

    Final approval. The bylaw is now in force.

  2. June 29, 2026· Council

    First reading for design changes; tree bylaw readings and design panel direction

    Council gave first reading to the OCP amendment adding the new design guidelines and updated EDPA maps (Bylaw 2268) and gave first, second and third readings to the new Tree Protection Bylaw (Bylaw 2269); Council directed staff to bring forward a bylaw to establish an Advisory Design Panel.

    Discussion

    Council discussed the consolidation of guidelines, alignment with the Urban Forest Management Plan and OCP, improved clarity for applicants, and tree bylaw clarifications including consolidating hazardous tree removal approvals into one stream; Council approved readings and directed staff to prepare an ADP bylaw.

    Decision: Gave first reading to OCP amendment, adopted Tree Protection, directed staff to draft ADP.

    Passed

  3. June 29, 2026·Presentation

    Three consultant presentations were given: Parks DCC Rates; Design Guidelines; and Environmental Development Permit Guidelines.

  4. August 19, 2024·Notice of motion

    Council directed staff to consider Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification (RHFAC) in the upcoming review of Langford's Design Guidelines.