AR2 Zoning in Nanaimo - Semi-Rural
AR2: Semi-Rural is an agricultural zoning district in the City of Nanaimo. This zone provides for agriculture and residential uses on large rural lots, with limited urban services and provides for the preservation of land for future development.
On a typical AR2-zoned lot you can expect up to 4 dwelling units, a maximum height of 9 m, and site coverage up to 20%. Exact figures vary with lot size, frontage, and form of development, so look up your specific address to confirm.
Permitted uses in AR2 include agriculture, Animal Shelter, and Animal Training.
Intent of the AR2 district
This zone provides for agriculture and residential uses on large rural lots, with limited urban services and provides for the preservation of land for future development.
AR2 at a glance
| Max dwelling units | 4 |
|---|---|
| Max height | 9 m |
| Site coverage | 20% |
| Zone category | Agricultural |
Density tiers in AR2
| Tier | Min lot area | Max units | Base FSR | Bonus FSR | Max height |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-Rural | 10000 m² | 4 | - | - | 9 m |
Permitted uses in AR2
- Agriculture
- Animal Shelter
- Animal Training
- Horse Stable
- Mobile Home
- Pet Daycare
- Single Residential Dwelling
- Boarding and Lodging (accessory)
- Daycare (accessory)
- Home Based Business (accessory)
- Secondary Suite (accessory)
- Short-Term Rental (accessory)
AR2 zoning FAQ
What is AR2 zoning in Nanaimo?
AR2 (Semi-Rural) is an agricultural zoning district in the City of Nanaimo. This zone provides for agriculture and residential uses on large rural lots, with limited urban services and provides for the preservation of land for future development.
What can you build on AR2-zoned land in Nanaimo?
Permitted uses in AR2 include Agriculture, Animal Shelter, Animal Training, Horse Stable, Mobile Home, among others. Permitted uses are allowed outright; conditional uses may require Development Permit Board approval.
How tall can a building be in AR2?
AR2 permits a maximum building height of 9 m. Height can be affected by view corridors, setbacks, and the specific form of development.
Other agricultural zones in Nanaimo
Look up a specific address in Nanaimo
Source: official Nanaimo zoning bylaw (PDF) · updated October 2026