Building North Cowichan (current development applications)
A File Review Letter is a land information letter that provides routinely available records such as current zoning, OCP amendments, permits issued, active development applications, business licenses, etc. for a specific property. File Review Letters are most commonly requested by Law firms and property purchasers wanting to know the current status of a property before the completion of a property sale.
The information in the File Review Letter is based on a review of the Planning and Building Department’s records. These letters do not provide copies of documents or information from the North Cowichan Fire Department, Island Health, Electrical Safety, Provincial agencies, Charges on Title and/or information that is not routinely available. Separate requests must be made to these departments or organizations. Contact Information for these departments and organizations is provided under Other Useful Resources.
Please be aware that the file review letter only provides information available in Municipal records. The Municipality cannot confirm compliance with applicable policies and regulations unless accurate information about current uses and development is provided.
A request for a File Review Letter must be received in writing and accompanied with the required fee. You must also submit a completed Agent Authorization form if you are not the registered owner of the property. Your request in writing should include the following:
Requests can be submitted by:
The time for preparing the response depends on the complexity of the research and the availability of staff to complete the research. Please allow up to 10 business days per property, from receipt of payment for your request to be reviewed and processed. Once the request has been completed, we will email you a PDF of the File Review Letter. Requests will not be processed until payment has been received.
File Review Letters are $210 (including tax) per property. With your written request, the fee is payable by cheque, debit, cash or online banking using any one of the following payment options:
The Planning Department cannot provide the following information but suggest that you contact these Departments and Agencies to assist you with further inquiries.