The Waterfront Community

Nestled between the North Shore mountains and the Pacific Ocean, West Vancouver is a short drive across the Lion's Gate Bridge from downtown Vancouver in British Columbia, Canada.

This picturesque community of more than 42,000 is renown for its seaside walks, hiking, skiing and rugged beauty. The Municipality spans 89 square kilometres and is bordered by Howe Sound to the west, the Capilano River to the east, the mountains to the north and Burrard Inlet to the south.

West Vancouver separated from the District of North Vancouver in 1912, and since then, has remained primarily residential. Several neighbourhood business areas throughout the community serve the needs of area residents. The small town atmosphere is a result of careful planning, even though the area has seen a population growth characteristic of the Greater Vancouver region.

An elected council of Mayor and six Councillors govern the Municipality and meet on a weekly basis. Under the council-manager system, Council delegates administrative responsibility to the Municipal Manager who oversees the District's seven departments and more than 500 full-time employees. In 2002, West Vancouver's annual operating budget was $84 million.

West Vancouver is fortunate to have dedicated residents and staff. We're proud of our beautiful community and will continue to preserve the characteristics that make it such a desirable place to live and work.