Official Plan

The Official Plan is the City's key planning document that guides the long-term growth and development of the City. It describes the goals, objectives and policies which guide our land use decisions. More specifically, it provides strategic policy direction on:

• Where to direct housing, parks, industry, shopping areas, and schools;
• How natural areas and heritage resources will be protected;
• What infrastructure and services (roads, water mains, sewers, schools, community facilities) will be needed; and
• How to enhance community identity and design.

While some policies of the Official Plan have immediate effects, other policies are more long-term. While the Official Plan provides more general guidance for the vision and development of the City, the Zoning By-law contains specific development regulations and implements the Official Plan. With the new Official Plan coming into force and effect, a comprehensive review of the Zoning By-law will be completed to bring the Zoning By-law into conformity with the new Official Plan.