A Richmond house in the Agricultural Land Reserve advertising itself online as “Vancouver’s Ultra-Exclusive Private Members Club” was found to have numerous bylaw violations during a city inspection.
The City of Richmond conducted a “scheduled inspection” of Beijing Mansion on No. 5 Road on Tuesday after hearing concerns about a business on the property and issues with zoning compliance.
In addition to the bylaw infractions, the club has no business licence from the city.
“The city is following up on the concerns noted during the inspection,” explained city spokesperson Clay Adams.
However, details on the violations aren’t available, he added.
An Agricultural Land Commission (ALC) officer also took part in the inspection at Beijing Mansion to assess compliance with the ALC Act.
In November, Beijing Mansion hosted the Chinese Restaurant Awards. At the awards, a “tasting menu” of eight courses was advertised as costing $288 per person.
The website states it can host a “limited number” of rental requests for events under the ALC Act.
The general manager of Beijing Mansion, Rae Kung, said they have been “diligent” in complying with ALC guidelines on events.
She further added the club has “thoroughly researched and confirmed” with authorities, including the city and the ALC, to “ensure our ability to rent out the property for events in accordance with their guidelines.”
The club is creating a private club in Victoria, but they use the Richmond property for event rentals.
Membership is by “referral only,” its website reads.
According to BC Assessment, the land and building are worth $3.45 million. The land is about 2.5 acres in size.
Their taxes are assessed at $9,345.
- with files from Daisy Xiong
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