What You Need to Know About Building in Squamish
If you are looking for a place to settle down and your attention has turned to Squamish, you are not alone. With so much to offer, Squamish is a highly desirable place to live, particularly if you like outdoor activities. An affordable cost of living, a beautiful view, and friendly people come together to make this an increasingly popular choice among homeowners.
The “Adventure Capital of Canada” is host to a wide variety of activities, attracting cyclists, hikers, rock climbers, kayakers, and anyone who loves the great outdoors. If that includes you, or if you just want a safe, relaxed place to hang your hat, Squamish could be the perfect place for you and your family.
If you are looking to buy a piece of land and build a home in this beautiful area, there are some things to be aware of. Here is what you need to know about building in Squamish:
Location
When it comes to finding your new property, one of the most important things for you to consider is selecting the right location. Squamish makes that easy by having so many great locations, including the Garibaldi Highlands, Brackendale, and the downtown core. Whether you want to remain close to amenities or you prioritize stunning mountain views, there is something for you in Squamish.
Squamish is situated in a unique landscape where rivers, ocean, mountains, and steep rock walls all converge. The downside of this amazing landscape is that it comes with its share of hazards which any builder should be aware of. Parts of Squamish are in a flood plain, debris hazard areas, or border on wildlife corridors or riparian areas. Good design can mitigate these issues, but it is good to know early in the process.
If you are not sure which location is best for you, consider speaking with a local realtor. Once they know what you are looking for, they can help guide you in your search.
Planning
Of course, the most important thing is to check the zoning of the property you are interested in to ensure you can build what you want. If the property in question is not zoned for what you want to build, you can consider a rezoning or variance request however, that process can take a long time, especially in Squamish, and the outcome is uncertain.
The next requirement is a District of Squamish building permit. This process is somewhat less uncertain, but there can still be long wait times depending on how complex or out of the ordinary your application is. There is a large amount of information available on the District of Squamish website. The first step is to book a pre-application meeting with a planner - which you can do online.
Finding the right location is only the beginning. After choosing where to settle down and purchasing your lot, you can start planning for the actual building of your home.
This is an exciting time, but it is probably also a little nerve-wracking, so know that you won’t be left on your own. Our team is here to help you through the process so that everything is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.
Though it’s still best if you take some time to create a list of your needs and wishes for your new home, our team will answer any questions and provide guidance, as needed.
The Build
With designs in hand and all necessary permits approved, you are now on your way! The building process can begin, and it won’t be long until you can step into your dream home in Squamish.
To learn more about building in Squamish, net-zero homes, and how to build the home of your dreams, contact the team at First Peak Contracting today.