Victoria

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Local Government

Sections

Structure of the Local Government

  1. City Council:

    • The City of Victoria is governed by an elected Mayor and eight City Councillors.
    • The council is responsible for making decisions on policies, budgets, and bylaws that affect the city.
    • Elections are held every four years, with the most recent election in October 2022.

  2. City Manager:

    • The City Manager is a non-elected official who oversees the day-to-day operations of the city and implements council decisions.

  3. Departments:

    • The city government is divided into several departments, including:
      • Engineering and Public Works (roads, water, waste management)
      • Parks, Recreation, and Culture
      • Sustainable Planning and Community Development
      • Victoria Fire Department
      • Finance and IT
      • Legislative Services (bylaws, council meetings, public records)

  4. Capital Regional District (CRD):

    • The CRD provides regional services such as water supply, waste management, and regional parks. It also manages housing initiatives and regional transportation planning.

Responsibilities of the City of Victoria

The City of Victoria is responsible for:

  • Public Infrastructure: Roads, sidewalks, water systems, and sewage.
  • Public Safety: Fire protection, emergency services, and bylaw enforcement.
  • Parks and Recreation: Maintenance of parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities.
  • Community Development: Urban planning, zoning, and building permits.
  • Waste Management: Garbage, recycling, and compost collection.
  • Cultural Services: Support for arts, heritage, and cultural events.
  • Transportation: Public transit (in partnership with BC Transit), bike lanes, and parking management.

Key Procedures for Residents and Visitors

1. Obtaining Permits

  • Building Permits:

    • Required for construction, renovations, or demolitions.
    • Application Process:
      • Submit plans and documents to the Permits and Inspections Division.
      • Pay the applicable fees (based on project size and type).
      • Inspections are conducted during and after construction.
    • Cost: Fees vary depending on the project. For example, a small residential renovation may cost $100โ€“$500, while larger projects can cost thousands.

  • Business Licenses:

    • Required for operating a business in Victoria.
    • Application Process:
      • Complete the application form online or in person.
      • Pay the annual license fee (ranges from $100 to $1,000 depending on the business type).
    • Business Licensing Information

  • Special Event Permits:

    • Required for hosting public events, festivals, or gatherings in parks or public spaces.
    • Application Process:
      • Submit an event application form.
      • Provide insurance and pay fees (varies by event size and location).
    • Event Permits Information

2. Registering for Services

  • Utilities (Water, Sewer, Garbage):

    • Residents are automatically enrolled in city utility services when they move into a property.
    • Utility bills are issued quarterly.
    • Utility Services Information

  • Recreation Programs:

    • The city offers a variety of recreational programs for all ages, including fitness classes, swimming, and arts programs.
    • Registration can be done online or at recreation centers.
    • Recreation Programs

  • Parking Permits:

    • Residents and businesses in certain areas may need parking permits.
    • Application Process:
      • Apply online or in person at City Hall.
      • Provide proof of residency or business ownership.
      • Fees: Residential parking permits cost approximately $25โ€“$50 annually.
    • Parking Information

3. Paying Property Taxes

  • Property taxes are due annually in July.
  • Payment can be made online, by mail, or in person at City Hall.
  • Homeowners may qualify for the Home Owner Grant to reduce their tax burden.
  • Property Tax Information

Associated Costs

  • Building Permits: Varies by project size.
  • Business Licenses: $100โ€“$1,000 annually.
  • Parking Permits: $25โ€“$50 annually.
  • Recreation Programs: Fees vary by program.
  • Property Taxes: Based on property value (mill rate set annually by the city).

Specific Considerations for Visitors and Residents

For Visitors:

  • Tourism Victoria: The city is a major tourist destination, and visitors can access information about attractions, events, and transportation through Destination Greater Victoria.
  • Parking: Downtown Victoria has metered parking and parkades. Use the ParkVictoria app for convenient payment.
  • Public Transit: Operated by BC Transit, buses are the primary mode of public transportation. A single fare is $2.50 (exact change required).

For Residents:

  • Housing: Victoria has a high cost of living, particularly for housing. The city works with the CRD to provide affordable housing options.
  • Recycling and Composting: The city has a robust waste diversion program. Residents are encouraged to use blue bins (recycling) and green bins (compost).
  • Emergency Preparedness: Victoria is in an earthquake-prone region. The city provides resources for emergency kits and preparedness plans (Emergency Management).

Key Local Offices and Resources

  1. City Hall:

    • Address: 1 Centennial Square, Victoria, BC V8W 1P6
    • Phone: 250-385-5711
    • Website: www.victoria.ca

  2. Capital Regional District (CRD):

    • Address: 625 Fisgard Street, Victoria, BC V8W 1R7
    • Phone: 250-360-3000
    • Website: www.crd.bc.ca

  3. Service BC (Provincial Services):

    • Address: 403-771 Vernon Avenue, Victoria, BC V8X 5A7
    • Phone: 1-800-663-7867
    • Website: www2.gov.bc.ca

  4. Tourism Victoria:

This guide provides a detailed overview of the City of Victoriaโ€™s local government, services, and procedures. Whether youโ€™re a visitor or a new resident, these resources will help you navigate the city effectively.