Members of the public who require municipal services are encouraged to go online or call ahead. New measures are in place to keep staff and municipal hall visitors safe during the recent COVID-19 Omicron wave, including alternating in-person staffing and restricting in-person meetings.
Since the start of the pandemic, North Cowichan has enhanced its online service options. This includes online credit card payments for new or renewed dog licences, business licences, building permits and garbage/recycling schedules.
Council meetings, moved to virtual in 2020, now continue with hybrid virtual and in-person options. Council, staff and the public have the option of participating virtually or in-person in council chambers. The public is encouraged during this COVID-19 wave to use the online options, including watching meetings live and participating in the public input sessions by telephone, computer or mobile device.
For building and development permit information, call or email for more information:
Building permit applications (Building@northcowichan.ca or call 250-746-3104)
Subdivision applications (Engineering@northcowichan.ca or call 250-746-3103)
Development applications (Planning@northcowichan.ca or call 250-746-3104)
For those who must attend the municipal hall, people are encouraged to call ahead to ensure staff is available, and to book an appointment if needed. Masks and physical distancing are required inside municipal hall.
North Cowichan has adjusted work and staffing schedules in order to minimize staff contact and to avoid service disruptions due to COVID exposure. Precautions around physical distancing and cleaning protocols have been enhanced and all staff has been encouraged to get vaccinated.
For more information on North Cowichan’s ongoing response to COVID-19 visit www.northcowichan.ca/COVID19 or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/northcowichan.