The Zoning Review Process
The Zoning Review and Certificate process has been implemented to ensure that the required Zoning and Planning approvals are in place prior to the submission of an application for Building Permit. A Zoning Examiner will review your proposal for compliance with various Zoning and Planning documents, prior to the submission of a “complete” Building Permit application. This provides applicants with clear confirmation of the requirements under the Township’s Zoning By-law and other Planning regulations and policies before the Building Permit process can begin.
An application for Zoning Certificate will commence as a Zoning review to confirm that the proposed construction meets the regulations of the Township’s Zoning By-law and/or identify concerns with the proposed work. Zoning staff will review the application to determine if the construction is exempt from the requirement of a Zoning Certificate, or whether additional approvals are required from other departments or agencies. This review considers the following: Minor Variance, Site Plan Approval, Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Conformity Review or Clearance, Conservation Authority, and/or other Planning reviews.
Issuance of Zoning Certificate
Upon completion of the Zoning review and once it has been confirmed that the plans comply with the Zoning By-law and other approvals which may be required, a Zoning Certificate will be issued. A Zoning Certificate will be issued with your drawings which will be stamped to identify they have been pre-approved for compliance with zoning regulations.
The Zoning Certificate is valid for 9 months from the date of issuance, provided there are NO changes to the plans as submitted. Any revisions or changes will require the issuance of a new Zoning Certificate.
The Zoning Certificate is not a Building Permit. For issuance of a Building Permit please consult with the Building Division.
Application and Fees
The request for a Zoning Certificate may be initiated through our online portal system, see steps below for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following is intended to provide general information with respect to the Zoning Certificate process.