Care Homes

Care homes require a development permit and must meet the requirements of the Zoning Bylaw and provincial regulations. To view the Zoning Bylaws, visit the Bylaws page and select "Zoning" under category.

Types of care homes

There are three types of care homes – private care homes, residential care homes and residential care facilities. The difference between these is the number of people receiving care and whether there is paid staff.

Private care home

This type of care home is a permitted use in residential zoning districts and the RMU zoning district, and you must provide the following:

• Care for five persons or less
• Care in a family setting for people who need personal services, supervision or assistance for the activities of daily living

Residential care home

This type of care home is a discretionary use (council) in residential zoning districts and the RMU zoning district, and you must provide the following:

• Care for nine persons or less
• Staff who provide care for people who need personal services, supervision, or assistance for the activities of daily living or protection of the person

Residential care facility

This type of care home is a discretionary use (council) in all residential, commercial and institutional zoning districts, and you must provide the following:

• Care for 10 or more people in a residential setting
• Staff who provide care for people who need personal services, supervision, or assistance for the activities of daily living or protection of the person

Building permit

You may require a building permit to meet fire and building code requirements.

Please see our Establishing Your Care Home or Facility brochure for further details.