Official Community Plan
On December 15, 2025, Vernon City Council adopted Official Community Plan Bylaw #6200.
The Official Community Plan (OCP) is a long-term plan that guides where and how growth and development in Vernon will be accommodated to 2045. The OCP was created through a four-phase review and update process in alignment with provincial legislative requirements and aided by community and technical input.
Learn more about the OCP
The 2025 OCP includes several Big Moves that represent an evolution from the 2013 document:
Growth Management, Transit Oriented Development, and Mixed Use
- The Urban Containment Boundary limits sprawl, encourages sustainable growth, and supports a robust economy by protecting hillsides and agricultural properties.
- The Focused Growth Area encourages medium to high density growth and public investment in key areas.
- Transit Oriented Areas encourage higher density housing and mixed-use buildings along transit corridors.
- Urban and Neighbourhood Centres integrate commercial uses at a variety of scales to create vibrancy and livability in the community.
Housing
- Objectives, policies, and action items facilitate the delivery of housing and streamline processes to meet housing demand and provincial housing targets.
- Form and Character guidelines add clarity for applicants and foster inclusive, climate resilient, and people-first streetscapes.
- Specific guidelines for zero-carbon buildings and accessible design are included.
Climate Action
- Climate Action Plan integration applies a climate lens to all aspects of the city.
Parks and Public Access to the Waterfront
- Riparian dedications enhance management of riparian features such as lakes and streams, and improve public access to the waterfront.
- Park land acquisition is a priority to expand and create new parks in the community.
Environmental Mapping and Policy Framework
- Updated environmental mapping enhances protection of ecosystems and regional ecological connectivity corridors.
- Development Permit Areas align with best practices and protect important environmental features.
All plans referenced in the OCP: