ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT PROCESS

Copies of the Zoning By-law are available at the Municipal Offices - $25.00 each

What is a Zoning By-law?

A Zoning By-law controls the use of land and buildings and regulates the height, bulk, location, size, floor area, spacing and use of buildings or structures. The Zoning By-law is used as the primary tool for implementing the Town’s Official Plan. There are four main components of a Zoning By-law: definitions, general provisions, zoning provisions and zones on maps. Information on matters such as permitted land uses, building locations, lot size standards (eg side yard dimensions and setbacks from the street) and parking requirements are laid out in the by-law. The Zoning By-law provides a degree of security and certainty for property owners. A Zoning By-law is approved by the Council of the Town of Arnprior and must conform to the Town’s Official Plan and the Provincial Policy Statements.
Why rezone land?

To use a property in a way that is not permitted by the Zoning By-law requires a rezoning of your land. If the change is minor, the Zoning By-law may be varied through a minor variance, which is a separate and distinct process. This variance process is outlined under "Committee of Adjustment - Minor Variance". Proposals for rezoning may be reviewed with the Planning Department staff prior to submission. This review will determine if enough information is provided with the application to support the rezoning request and if the application conforms the Town’s Official Plan.
Key Steps
  • Pre-consultation with staff and applicant
  • Submit complete application and fee
  • Circulated to dept/agencies; report prepared
  • Report to Committee of the Whole for review
  • Public Meeting held
  • Council Adopts By-law
  • Once appeal period expires, by-law in full force and effect

Please see "Procedures" on cover of application for detailed steps followed and timing.
Applicant’s Roles and Responsibilities

Each person and/or agency has defined roles and responsibilities. An Application will move through the process quickly if the applicant:

  • submits a "complete" application; proposes a rezoning which conforms to established policies at the local and possibly provincial levels;
  • provides full and accurate information throughout the process; and sets out the purpose for the application, including an assessment of any impacts (positive or negative) on the affected neighbourhood, community and/or Town.
Evaluation Criteria

A rezoning application is evaluated on the basis of site circumstances and planning principles set out in the Official Plan. Issues typically addressed are:

  • Is the use compatible with neighbouring uses and in a location appropriate to the activity requested?
  • Will the size and height of new buildings or reduced setbacks "fit" with the surrounding community?
  • Does the site have access to roads which can handle any increase traffic? Will the change promote safe traffic flow, walking or cycling?
  • Are adequate services (eg. Water, sewer or private services) and amenities (eg. Parks and schools) available?
  • Will there be an impact on the quality of the natural environment (eg. waterfront)? Are there any known constraints?
Submission Requirements

Please consult with the Town’s Planning staff by calling 623-4231 before submitting an application. The basic submission requirements include:

  • a complete application form and fee(s);
  • a survey accurately detailing the area to be rezoned; and
  • any additional information in support of the applicant’s proposal.

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