An Official Plan:

• lets the public know what the province and municipality's general land use planning policies are;
• makes sure that growth is coordinated and meets the community's needs;
• helps all members of the community understand how their land may be used now and in the future;
• helps decide where roads, waste sites, parks and other services will be built;
• provides a framework for establishing municipal zoning by-laws to set local regulations and standards, such as size of lots, or development setbacks from water or quarries;
• provides a way to evaluate and settle conflicting land uses while meeting local, regional and provincial interests; and
• shows Council's commitment to the future of the community.

An approved Official Plan can be reviewed at any time, but each local council is required to revise its official plan not less than every five years from the date the plan came into effect. This ensures the plan is consistent with the Provincial Policy Statement and that it conforms and/or does not conflict with provincial plans. The five-year review is also an opportunity to ensure the Official Plan continues to address local priorities and changing community needs.

An official plan amendment is a formal document that changes a municipality's official plan. Changes may be needed because of new circumstances in the community or because of requests made by property owners.

Before you apply for an Official Plan Amendment, you should talk to Township staff for advice and information. You must complete an application form which identifies information required by the County and the Township.

The application form outlines the requirements for submitting an application for an Official Plan Amendment. If you are acting as an agent for the purposes of the application, a letter of authorization is required from the registered owner of the property.

Applications are available at the Municipal Office.