What is a zoning by-law?

While an Official Plan sets out the municipality’s general policies for future land use, zoning by-laws put the plan into effect and provide for its day-to-day administration. They contain specific requirements that are legally enforceable. Zoning by-laws must conform to the Official Plan. Generally, a zoning by-law controls the use of land in your community. It states exactly, among other things:

• how land may be used
• where buildings and other structures can be located
• the types of buildings that are permitted and how they may be used
• the lot sizes and dimensions, parking requirements, density, building heights and setbacks from the street