The District of Squamish is developing a Steep Slopes Development Permit Area (DPA) to guide how future development occurs on steep terrain. This new draft DPA is being shaped by the Official Community Plan Hazard Land Policy that supports the creation of a Steep Slope DPA as part of the District’s broader strategy to reduce risk, strengthen infrastructure, and prepare for climate-related challenges. This work aligns with the Strategic Outcome of being Prepared for the Future, aiming to enhance hazard mitigation and community resilience by September 2026.

Once, the draft DPA has been completed, the District will be seeking public input from residents on the analysis, alternatives and/or decisions.

The District of Squamish is taking a balanced and research-informed approach to drafting the Steep Slopes Development Permit Area. This work is being guided by:

The proposed approach is intended to balance comprehensive steep slope development regulation, providing clear site planning and design direction, without adding poorly integrated regulatory layers for landowners, builders, or developers.

The draft DPA will focus on hazard mitigation, supported by a set of targeted guidelines that reference and complement existing District regulatory tools, including standards outlined in the Subdivision and Development Control Bylaw, which provides general design criteria for site grading, road design, and retaining walls.

For an introduction to the approach of the Steep Slopes Development Permit Area (DPA) and guidelines, see the June 24, 2025, Report to Council presented at the Committee of the Whole meeting.

Upon completion of the draft Steep Slopes DPA, information will be posted on this landing page for residents to review and comment on. Public feedback will be collected and considered before the draft is brought forward for reading. We will also hold an in-person and an online session specifically for homebuilders to provide input and ask questions.