A simpler, more user-friendly plan outlining how Coquitlam grows is one step closer, with Council granting first reading to the Interim Official Community Plan (OCP).
COQUITLAM, B.C., March 31, 2026 – A simpler, more user-friendly plan outlining how Coquitlam grows is one step closer, with Council granting first reading to the Interim Official Community Plan (OCP).
Official Community Plans guide how a city grows and changes over time, including where housing, services, transportation and amenities are located. Since its adoption in 2001, Coquitlam’s OCP has expanded to more than 1,000 pages, with overlapping policies, multiple plans and layers of amendments. The Interim OCP is designed to simplify that framework, making it easier for residents, applicants and staff to navigate and use.
At the same time, the update ensures the City aligns with provincial legislation, including requirements related to housing needs, transit-oriented development and small-scale multi-unit housing.
Key Changes in the Interim OCP
This interim update focuses on streamlining the City’s existing OCP, improving usability by consolidating existing policies and incorporating changes required or necessitated by provincial housing legislation, while laying the groundwork for a more comprehensive review anticipated to begin in 2027.
This interim update does not introduce new land use policy or identify new areas for growth, unless required by the provincial housing legislation.
Key improvements include:
- Simplified structure: Policies have been reorganized into a clear, consistent format with defined goals, objectives and actions.
- Reduction in complexity: The total number of policies has been reduced by approximately 70 per cent, removing duplication and improving clarity.
- Consolidated land use and maps: Dozens of land use designations and maps have been streamlined into a more cohesive, citywide system.
- Improved usability: Clear language and consistent terminology make the document easier to navigate and apply.
- Faster processes: Updated urban design guidelines and policy direction support more efficient development review timelines.
The result is a more accessible, modern plan that supports decision-making while maintaining the City’s long-term vision.
Community Feedback Reflected in Updated Document
Residents had the opportunity to share input through online and in-person opportunities during November and December 2025, including public information sessions – both in-person and virtual – and an online survey. Staff also responded to questions and comments through emails and phone calls from residents throughout this process.
A full What We Heard report summarizing the feedback is available to view at LetsTalkCoquitlam.ca/OfficialCommunityPlan.
Next Steps
Following first reading, the proposed bylaws will move forward to a Public Hearing, where residents can provide input to Council. Further readings and adoption will follow Public Hearing. Public hearing details will be shared in advance through:
If adopted, the Interim OCP will replace the current OCP and guide planning decisions moving forward, while setting the stage for a more comprehensive review beginning in 2027.
Media contact:
Renée de St. Croix
Director Urban Planning and Design
604-927-3430
devinfo@coquitlam.a
We acknowledge with gratitude and respect that the name Coquitlam was derived from the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ (HUN-kuh-MEE-num) word kʷikʷəƛ̓əm (kwee-KWET-lum) meaning “Red Fish Up the River”. The City is honoured to be located on the kʷikʷəƛ̓əm traditional and ancestral lands, including those parts that were historically shared with the q̓ic̓əy̓ (kat-zee), and other Coast Salish Peoples.