City of Nanaimo seeks input on how to pay for growth

Nanaimo aims to ensure new development contributes appropriately to community growth, using clear and equitable cost-recovery tools

NEWS RELEASE - Distributed September 23, 2025 10:00 AM

Summary

The City is asking residents, developers and community partners to share their thoughts on how we fund infrastructure and amenities needed for new development. We’re reviewing two tools:

• Development Cost Charges (DCCs) – These help pay for things like roads, water, sewer, parks, fire and police services and waste facilities
• Amenity Cost Charges (ACCs) – These help fund community spaces like recreation centres, libraries, public squares and daycare facilities

These charges make sure that new development pays its fair share, so existing taxpayers aren’t covering all the costs of amenities and infrastructure necessary to support new growth. The money collected goes into special reserves and is only used for approved projects. Charges are collected:

• When a subdivision is approved (for low-density housing)
• When a building permit is issued (for higher-density housing, commercial, industrial, or institutional buildings)

Each project funded by DCCs or ACCs is carefully reviewed based on cost, timing, service level and how much it benefits future residents.

We want your feedback! Visit the project pages to learn more: Development Cost Charge (DCC) Bylaw Project and Amenity Cost Charge (ACC) Bylaw Project on the City website. To participate in a survey and share your thoughts, visit: www.getinvolvednanaimo.ca/DCC-ACC

In addition, an Open House will take place on Oct. 9 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Beban Park Social Centre (Room 3) for anyone interested in learning more.

Link to Strategic Plan: Growing current services ensures that the City continues to plan for, maintain and grow its services while ensuring we are fiscally responsible, and responsive to our community’s evolving needs.

Print News Release