Affordable Housing

North Cowichan’s Official Community Plan (2022) (Chapter 5, Attainable Housing: Diverse Housing Mix & Affordability recognizes the importance of housing as a fundamental part of individual and community health and ensures that all residents have an affordable and adequate place to live. A number of objectives support the retention of existing and development of new affordable housing through municipal actions, supporting developers and landowners, and working together with other levels of government and organizations.

In addition, the Council Strategic Plan sets out clear actions to support affordable and other housing that meets the needs of the community.

Programs and partners

• BC Housing: Provides information on affordable housing programs and resources, including rental assistance and supportive housing options. Contact BC Housing if you want to apply for subsidized housing.
• Cowichan Housing Association: Offers resources and support for affordable housing initiatives in the Cowichan Valley. Cowichan Housing Association has a “Housing Loss Prevention Program” that provides assistance and support to individuals and families who are at imminent risk of losing their housing.

In 2025, North Cowichan adopted an Affordable Housing Policy and Implementation Plan. 

Developing the policy included gathering feedback from residents, developers, social service organizations, and housing advocates. It builds on the goals of the 2022 Official Community Plan and responds to findings from the 2024 Interim Housing Needs Report, which identified the need for up to 394 new non-market housing units over the next five years. 

The policy outlines a strategic framework to increase the supply of affordable housing, protect existing rental units, and support individuals experiencing homelessness. It includes practical steps such as leveraging public land, offering financial and non-financial incentives, and working with other levels of government and community organizations.

The policy prioritizes the development of a housing data dashboard, a comprehensive homelessness strategy, and a review of municipal land holdings for housing opportunities.