Background

Welcome to the project page for the Blasting Bylaw Update. This page provides information, resources, and updates about the project.

In response to resident concerns, Council directed updates to the District’s blasting regulations in 2020. Currently, Building and Plumbing Bylaw No. 4247 contains blasting permit requirements.

Residents’ concerns have been documented and reviewed as the first part of this bylaw review and update. Following direction from Council in June of 2023, further research and consultation with residents, blasters, and contractors was conducted. Council received an update report on March 18, 2024, summarizing five key themes: policy alignment, noise, property, safety, and communication. At that meeting, Council asked for additional opportunity for public input.

Currently, proposed changes include introducing regulations for rock breaking and blasting, limits on the amounts and timing of rock removal, increased communication and neighbour notification and a change in the permit fee structure.

Where we are today

May 2026 – In the fall of 2025, staff completed referral of the regulation to the Heritage Commission and Advisory Planning Commission for their advice.

Staff are now completing the bylaws related to Blasting Regulation and they will be provided to Council for consideration at the May 19 Special Council meeting. The report will be posted in the Agenda package for Council, usually published on Wednesday’s or Thursdays ahead of the meeting on Oak Bay CivicWeb.

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