City seeking new member for Board of Variance

Applications open until Sept. 26

NEWS RELEASE - Distributed September 10, 2025 11:00 AM

Summary

Residents interested in becoming more involved with local government have the opportunity to apply to the Board of Variance. The City of Nanaimo is currently recruiting one member for a three-year term.

Successful applicants for the Board of Variance will have a basic understanding of building and zoning regulations such as the City’s Zoning Bylaw and BC Building Code, as well as familiarity with interpreting architectural plans and documents. Board members cannot be elected officials, employees of the local government that appoints them or on an advisory planning commission.

Applications can be filled out online or picked up at City Hall (455 Wallace Street). Interested residents can submit a completed application form to the Legislative Services Department by 4 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 26, 2025.

online: www.nanaimo.ca/goto/committees
mail/in-person: Legislative Services, 455 Wallace Street, Nanaimo, BC, V9R 5J6
email: legislative.servicesoffice@nanaimo.ca

For more information regarding the board including mandate, eligibility requirements, time commitments and responsibilities, please see the Board of Variance page on the City’s website or contact the Legislative Services Department at (250) 755-4405.

Link to Strategic Plan: Supports Governance Excellence by facilitating decision making.

Key Points

The board is an independent body that can grant variances to relax zoning regulations, extend non-conforming uses and reconstruct non-conforming buildings.
The deadline to submit an application is 4 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26.
The term of appointment to the Board of Variance is three years, or until a successor is appointed.

Quotes

"Serving on the board is a great way to contribute to the City’s decision-making process. Anyone who has experience in zoning and building regulations and is ready to bring thoughtful perspectives to the table is encouraged to apply."

Sheila Gurrie

Director, Legislative Services

City of Nanaimo