Pet Groomers Challenge Zoning Laws to Secure New Location in Langford

A West Shore pet grooming business is taking significant steps to secure its future after facing unexpected challenges related to zoning regulations. Pawsitive Pet Grooming, owned by partners Tricia Heidinger and Silvia Panziera, is working to amend local bylaws that currently restrict pet grooming as a standalone business in Langford, British Columbia. The business, which has served the community for over 20 years, received notice from its landlord that it must vacate its current location at Hatley Park Centre in Colwood by May 2024.

Upon receiving the eviction notice, Heidinger and Panziera saw an opportunity to relocate and expand their operations. “We’re excited to find a new space to reinvest into ourselves and to create something super cool,” said Heidinger. They initially searched for commercial rental properties in Colwood, but faced challenges finding a suitable location that met their needs.

In their quest, they turned to Langford, where they identified several properties that seemed promising due to their accessibility and necessary parking. However, they soon discovered that local zoning regulations do not permit pet grooming as a primary business, classifying it instead as an auxiliary service to establishments like pet daycare.

The news was disheartening for the pair, who have decades of combined experience in the grooming industry. Panziera expressed her frustration, stating, “This is ridiculous. How have I been doing this for 40 years if it’s not considered a business?” Heidinger echoed these sentiments, adding, “To have somebody say that this isn’t a standalone business blew my mind.”

Faced with the potential of losing their long-standing business, city staff informed the groomers that they could either apply for a temporary use permit, which costs $2,290, or find a location where pet grooming is permitted. However, the existing options were not practical, as Heidinger pointed out that their client volume exceeded what a residential setting could accommodate.

Despite the mounting pressure, Heidinger remained resolute. She initiated a campaign to challenge Langford’s existing zoning bylaws, which she deemed “archaic.” “At that point for me, it wasn’t any longer a fight for us to find a spot in Langford; it was just about a right to have a business, and to be viewed as having a primary business,” she stated.

Heidinger dedicated countless hours to researching and communicating with local officials. Her efforts gained traction through social media, where a Facebook post about their situation reached over 20,000 people. “I was spending six hours every night researching and writing emails and trying to figure all this stuff out,” she said.

The determination of Heidinger and Panziera did not go unnoticed. At a council meeting in December 2023, Councillor Colby Harder introduced a notice of motion urging staff to amend Zoning Bylaw No. 300 to permit pet grooming and bakery businesses in all commercial zones. Mayor Scott Goodmanson emphasized the city’s commitment to supporting local businesses, stating, “Langford is committed to being open for business and supporting entrepreneurs.”

With the city’s support, Heidinger and Panziera are now poised to move forward with their plans to relocate before their lease expires. They aim to replicate the community-centric atmosphere they cultivated in Colwood, where Pawsitive Pet Grooming has become more than just a grooming service. The business also engages in fundraising for animal rescue and supports local organizations like the Victoria Cool Aid Society and PHS Community Services Society.

Heidinger reflected on the deep connections they have forged with clients over the years, noting, “We’ve celebrated births, lost friends and held each other through loss.” Their goal remains simple: to ensure that every client leaves feeling better than when they arrived.

“This wasn’t just me that did it,” Heidinger emphasized. “It was our whole community – we did it.” As they prepare for their next chapter in Langford, Heidinger and Panziera look forward to continuing their mission of serving both pets and their owners, fostering a sense of community along the way.