City staff advised against approving the proposed year-round operation on agricultural land, urging the Kelowna City Council to review the application for the agri-tourism RV park at 2062 Morrison Road.
The RV Park has been running seasonally since 2010. The existing 10-stall park operates from April 1 to October 31 each year, providing accommodations for tourists. In 2017, a similar application on the property was brought before the council but was not supported
One of the issues highlighted in the staff report is the “inconsistency” with zoning and the OCP. The city’s policies support “non-farm use applications only” when they align with zoning regulations and provide benefits to agriculture. The report argues that the proposed year-round RV use does not meet these criteria.
“To protect and enhance local agriculture, the policy direction provides support for non-farm use applications only where the proposed use meets certain criteria,” the staff report stated, as reported by Castanet on August 9.
Moreover, the staff report emphasized that year-round RV operations are prohibited within the A1 agricultural zone. The inclusion of full-time residential units in the park could convert agricultural land for non-agricultural use.
The report also suggests that although the subject property operates an “active agricultural business,” having full-time residential units does not benefit local agriculture.
“It would preclude future use of agricultural lands, as it would permanently convert agricultural land for non-agricultural use,” the staff report explained.
The report explained that recreational vehicles, particularly CSA-Z241 Series Park model trailers, are not recognized as dwelling units under the BC Building Code.
The RV park application for year-round operation underscores the importance of consulting and understanding local zoning regulations and city council policies. For private campground operators and RV park owners, aligning with these guidelines can ensure that their proposals meet zoning criteria and local policies, which can facilitate smooth approval.
