DCC & ACC Progam Update

The definitions of the different types of residential density referred to in the proposed DCC and ACC rates are:

Low Density Residential: Single- and two-family dwellings, where each unit can include up to one secondary suite

Medium Density Residential: Buildings with 3 or more units that each have their own entrance (like townhouses, triplexes, or mobile homes) and in some cases accessory buildings

High Density: Multi-unit dwelling containing 3 or more self-contained units accessed through a common hallway (stacked)

Density Definition Graphic

DCCs are one-time fees collected to help communities recover the costs of off-site infrastructure needed for, or as a result of, growth. They are based on the principle of cost-sharing infrastructure between existing taxpayers and new development. They are a Provincially regulated tool; the Local Government Act sets out the general requirements under which local governments may administer DCC programs.

Funds generated through DCCs are intended for one-time capital costs (planning, engineering, design, legal, studies) and are only applied to growth-driven projects within the following categories:

• Transportation services
• Water services
• Drainage services
• Sewer services
• Parkland acquisition and improvements
• Fire protection facilities
• Police facilities
• Solid waste and recycling facilities

DCCs cannot be used for projects that serve the existing population (i.e., deficiencies, asset replacement) or for operations and maintenance costs. DCCs also cannot be used for projects otherwise eligible for ACCs.

ACCs are one-time fees collected to help communities finance amenities such as community centres, recreational facilities, libraries, daycares, and public spaces, if any of these are provided by the municipality. These amenities support liveable and complete communities in areas of growth. They are a Provincially regulated tool; the Local Government Act sets out the general requirements under which local governments may administer ACC programs.

DCCs are paid by applicants/developers at the time of:

• Subdivision, for approval to create new single-family lots (Low Density Residential); or,
• Building Permit, upon application to construct Medium or High Density Residential, Commercial, Industrial, or Institutional developments

When a new DCC Bylaw and/or ACC Bylaw is enacted, an existing development application submitted prior to the adoption of the new Bylaw(s) is granted 12-month in-stream protection.

In-stream protection will apply to both complete building permit and subdivision applications received prior to the adoption of any new DCC Bylaw and/or ACC Bylaw. Protection is also extended to rezoning and development permit applications that were completed prior to the adoption of any new DCC and/or ACC Bylaw and that will result in a building permit within 12 months of bylaw adoption. If an application meets the required criteria of being complete and is submitted prior to the adoption of the new DCC Bylaw and/or ACC Bylaw, it is provided protection from rate increases.

DCCs are not payable in these instances:

• Building which is solely for public worship
• Units with ≤ 29 m² area
• Building Permit for work which does not exceed $50,000
• Where DCCs have been previously charged
• In-stream applications (complete)

ACCs are not payable in these instances:

•  Building which is solely for public worship
• Units with ≤ 29 m² area
• Building Permit for work which does not exceed $50,000
• In-stream applications (complete)
• Inclusionary housing
• Cooperative housing
• Supportive housing
• Transitional housing
• Emergency shelters

Under the Local Government Act, a local government may opt to impose a Bylaw through which DCCs or ACCs may be waived or reduced. DCC waivers or reductions can be provided in support of development resulting in the creation of affordable rental housing or reduced environmental impact. ACC waivers or reductions can be provided in support of affordable rental housing and low-impact development.

In the case of any waivers or reductions provided, the amount waived or reduced is to be entirely made up by the municipality.