Category: Kamloops Communty Information

Nestled in the heart of British Columbia, Kamloops stands as a hidden gem waiting to be explored. This vibrant city boasts a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty, making it a captivating destination for travelers and locals alike. Let’s embark on a journey to uncover seven intriguing facts about Kamloops that will undoubtedly pique your interest.

1. Kamloops, the Tournament Capital of Canada: Renowned for its love of sports, Kamloops proudly bears the title of the Tournament Capital of Canada. Hosting over 100 tournaments annually, ranging from hockey to lacrosse and everything in between, the city’s state-of-the-art facilities and enthusiastic community make it a premier destination for athletes and spectators alike.
2. The Majestic Kamloops Lake: Glistening like a sapphire jewel, Kamloops Lake stretches over 30 kilometers fed by the Thompson River, offering breathtaking vistas and recreational opportunities. Whether you’re an avid angler, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking serenity, the tranquil shores of Kamloops Lake provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure.
3. Indigenous Heritage and Cultural Richness: Steeped in Indigenous history, Kamloops pays homage to its First Nations heritage through various cultural sites and events. Visitors can immerse themselves in the traditions and stories of the Secwépemc people at places like the Secwépemc Museum and Heritage Park, gaining a deeper appreciation for the land’s significance and the resilience of its original inhabitants.
4. Sun Peaks Resort, a Year Round Wonderland: Just a short drive from Kamloops lies Sun Peaks Resort, a winter wonderland that beckons skiers and snowboarders from far and wide. Boasting over 4,000 acres of skiable terrain, pristine powder, and a charming alpine village, Sun Peaks offers an unparalleled mountain experience for enthusiasts of all skill levels. In the warmer months Sun Peaks is transformed to a mountain bike and hiking mecca, with many trails to explore.
5. Kamloops’ Thriving Art and Culture Scene: Art aficionados will find themselves right at home in Kamloops, where creativity flourishes amidst a vibrant cultural landscape. From captivating galleries showcasing local talent to dynamic performing arts venues hosting live music and theater productions, the city’s art scene reflects its diverse community and boundless creativity.
6. The Remarkable BC Wildlife Park: Nature lovers rejoice at the opportunity to encounter British Columbia’s native wildlife up close at the BC Wildlife Park. Home to over 65 species of animals, including grizzly bears, cougars, and timber wolves, this expansive park offers educational experiences and conservation efforts aimed at preserving the province’s natural heritage.
7. The Flavorful World of Kamloops’ Craft Beer Scene: Raise a glass to Kamloops’ burgeoning craft beer scene, where local breweries craft unique and flavorful brews that tantalize the taste buds. From hoppy IPAs to robust stouts, beer enthusiasts can embark on a sudsy adventure, sampling the city’s finest offerings while soaking in the laid-back atmosphere of its brewpubs and tasting rooms.

From its storied sports legacy to its breathtaking natural landscapes and vibrant cultural tapestry, Kamloops captivates visitors with its charm and diversity. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or simply a taste of local flavor, this dynamic city offers something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your next adventure to Kamloops and uncover the countless wonders that await in this picturesque British Columbia gem.

Did you know that carriage suites and garden suites are permitted in many areas of Kamloops?

When buyers think of having a secondary suite they most often think of a basement suite but there are two other secondary residential suite options that are increasingly prevalent in the Kamloops housing market. These are carriage suites and garden suites. Many Buyers question whether a property would allow for a secondary detached suite. Here is a guide to help determine if a property or home you are looking to purchase would qualify to have a carriage home or garden suite.

What is a Carriage Home and Garden Suite and what is the difference?

Garden Suite

A garden suite is a self-contained secondary dwelling that is smaller than and an accessory to the main single family home. Garden suites are only permitted to be one storey in height and have a maximum allowable square footage of 861 square feet. Garden suites are permitted in a greater number of areas than are carriage suites.

Carriage Suite

This term is often used to describe a garden suite but is actually a different dwelling unit. In Kamloops, a carriage suite is a separate and self-contained secondary dwelling that is smaller than and an accessory to the main single family home. But, the main difference between this and a garden suite is that a carriage house can be two storeys tall and have a garage on the bottom storey. The maximum building footprint needs to be under 861 square feet but because a carriage house is two storeys tall the maximum living space can be 1022 square feet.

Where Are Garden and Carriage Suites Permitted?

According to the City of Kamloops Residential Suites Guide garden suites are permitted in the following zones:
• RS-1, RS-1S, RS-4, and RS-5
• RT-1, RT-2 (only Urban Residential lots, as per the OCP), and RT-3
• RM-2A • CD-1, and CD-5 (no suites on consecutive lots, corner lots, or lots fronting a cul-de-sac bulb)

Carriage suites are only permitted in the RS-1S zone. Carriage suites will only be considered where the property is one of the following:
• a double-fronting lot (a lot that fronts two streets)
• a corner lot with approved access from two street fronts
• a lot with lane (alley) access
• a lot that can accommodate a 4.5 m wide driveway to the carriage suite.

For garden and carriage suites a development permit and building permit is required as well as a final occupancy permit before the suite can be rented out.

Other Regulations of Note

Garden and carriage suites must abide by other regulations such as:

• No living space permitted below the 200 year flood plain other than an entrance foyer.
• The principal building, garden/carriage suite, and all other accessory buildings can not cover over 40% of the total lot area.
• It is not permissible to have both a garden and carriage suite on the same single-family lot.
• The carriage or garden suite building cannot cover more than 12% of the total lot area.
• 40% of the front yard must be landscaped and vehicles cannot be parked in the landscaped area.
• Suites are not permitted on lots with duplexes.

Parking

A single family home plus secondary suite must have at least 3 unstacked parking spaces, plus 40% of the front yard must be landscaped with no vehicles parked in the landscaped area. The requirement for 3 unstacked parking spaces does not mean that all of the parking spaces have to be located beside each other on the lot.

More Information

So if thinking of secondary suite options there may be more to consider than just a basement suite. A carriage or garden suite could make a great home for in-laws or a short/long term rental suite. Short term rentals are permitted within the city of Kamloops. For more information see the City of Kamloops Guide to Residential Suites or contact the planning and development department at 250-828-3561 or ac.spoolmaknull@gninnalp.