Let Oak & Vine Estate Host Weddings and Events Permanently
Oak & Vine Estate is a small, family run vineyard and lavender farm on Lakes Road in North Cowichan, BC. For the past six years, Randy Westlake and Masika Allan, have operated under two temporary permits, hosting a handful of weddings and community events. 

They are now asking the Municipality of North Cowichan for a permanent zoning amendment to allow up to 10 weddings and events per year, ending by 11:00 pm, to bring stability to their family business and the many local vendors who depend on it.

This proposal is not for a commercial event centre, but rather a small scale, locally owned agri-tourism venue that aligns with the rural and agricultural charm of the Cowichan Valley.

Why We Support This Amendment

Active Agricultural Use and Agri-Tourism Alignment

Oak & Vine Estate is an actively farmed property, producing both grapes and lavender. Like agricultural operations within the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) who are already able to host 10 events per year, the owners are simply seeking the same fair opportunity to offset the high costs of farming through limited on site events that complement their agricultural activities. These weddings and celebrations highlight local products, support regional tourism, and align with the spirit of agri-tourism.

Community and Economic Benefits

Each event supports dozens of local small businesses such as caterers, florists, photographers, décor companies, musicians, hairdressers, bakers, videographers etc. keeping revenue within the Cowichan Valley.
Weddings and events attract visitors who contribute to local tourism, dining, and hospitality sectors.

Responsible, Low Impact Operations

Events are capped at 10 per year with strict guest limits, early end times, and comprehensive noise mitigation measures. The venue has been approved for A2 Assembly Use Occupancy, meaning it meets all fire safety, building code, and accessibility requirements verified by professionals and the municipality. The owners have completed multiple improvements to address neighbour feedback, including additional soundproofing, parking organization, and natural privacy screening. Amplified events are contained to the soundproofed event space and to date there have been no bylaw complaints regarding sound travel. 

Transparency and Goodwill

Masika and Randy have consistently invited neighbours to visit, share feedback, and see the soundproofing and operational safeguards for themselves. Their approach has always been open, respectful, and community-minded. They also frequently donate the use of their space to local non-profits and charities, offering the property free of charge for meetings, small gatherings, and community initiatives which is a reflection of their ongoing commitment to giving back to the Cowichan Valley.

In Summary

We believe Oak & Vine Estate contributes positively to our community, enhances local tourism, and demonstrates responsible stewardship of rural land. Approving this zoning amendment supports small business, local jobs, agriculture, and family run entrepreneurship while maintaining the integrity and beauty of the area.

With a proven history of responsible operations under temporary permits, and as an actively farmed property seeking the same opportunities afforded to ALR land, it is both fair and timely that Oak & Vine Estate be granted a permanent zoning amendment to continue providing these benefits with confidence and business stability.

We respectfully urge Council to approve the zoning amendment for Oak & Vine Estate.

www.oakandvineestate.com