Planning and Zoning
Land use planning affects almost every aspect of life in Ontario. It helps decide where in our community's homes and factories should be built; where parks and schools should be located; and where roads, sewers and other essential services should be provided.
Good planning leads to orderly growth and the efficient provision of services. It touches all of us and helps us to have the kind of community we want.
The Department of Development & Works is responsible for Planning and Zoning.
Click here for the Current Zoning and Planning Fees
Click here for the New Development Charges for 2011
Please find below documents that will assist you in the Planning and Zoning process:
Official Plan and Official Plan Schedules
An Official Plan is a statutory document which sets out the land use policy directions for long-term growth and development in a municipality. It is prepared with input from you and others in your community and helps to ensure that future planning and development will meet the specific needs of your community.
Comprehensive Zoning By-Law
Notice of Passing Comprehensive By-Law
Consent / Severance
A land severance is the authorized separation of a piece of land to form two new adjoining properties. This is commonly known as a consent. It is required if you want to sell, mortgage, charge or enter into any agreement for (at least 21 years) a portion of your land. If the two parts are split already, by a road or railway for example, consent is not needed.
Site Plan Control
Site plan control is a form of development control provided to municipalities by Ontario's Planning Act. No one can undertake any development which is subject to site plan control unless the town has reviewed and approved certain plans. Once the plans are approved, a site plan agreement is generally executed. This agreement contractually binds the owner to develop and maintain a site in accordance with the approved plans and the terms of the agreement.
Part Lot Control Exemption
Part lot control is a provision that regulates the sale or transfer of a part of a lot within a registered plan of subdivision. Municipalities use part lot control to prevent the possible uncontrolled division of lots within a plan of subdivision after the plan has been registered. A property owner may apply for Part Lot Control Exemption in order to legally divide his or her lot, or lots, within a registered plan of subdivision. The proposed lot division must not require new roads or municipal services.
Minor Variance
A minor variance is a small variation from the requirements of the zoning by-law. A minor variance may allow property owners to use their land in a way which does not comply exactly with the requirements of the zoning by-law. It is often necessitated by circumstances peculiar to the property which prevent the owner from developing it in a way which conforms to the by-law's provisions. Examples of minor variances include relief from certain parking space requirements, building setbacks, and height restrictions.
Subdivision Agreement
A Subdivision Agreement is the agreement between the Developer and the Town, concerning the subdivision in which your home is located. The Agreement is registered against the title of the lot you have purchased and contains warning clauses and conditions of Building Permit approval. You should be aware that conditions of the permit approval may affect your lot. On closing, your lawyer should brief you on any key clauses that directly affect your lot and provide you with a copy of the Agreement.
The Applications for Subdivision Agreement are done through the County of Renfrew. To get an application form please see the County of Renfrew Website: http://www.countyofrenfrew.on.ca/Onlineservices/esd.htm#dev∝
Plan of Condominium
A plan of Condominium is a method of dividing property so that an individual holds title to a portion of a building, or a "unit", as well as a share of the rest of the property that is common to all the individual unit owners. A Condominium can apply to residential, commercial or industrial properties.
The Applications for Plan of Condominium are done through the County of Renfrew. To get an application form please see the County of Renfrew Website: http://www.countyofrenfrew.on.ca/Onlineservices/esd.htm#dev∝
For more information, please call 613-432-8166. | 
