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How to Use the Zoning By-law
Updated: October 2010
THE CORPORATION OF THE CITY OF OWEN SOUND
HOW TO USE THE ZONING BY-LAW
What is Zoning?
Zoning provides regulations for lot size, setbacks, coverage and building height, so
that new development will fit within the context of its location.
Using the Zoning By-law:
For each zone, there is a list of permitted uses and a number of standards or
regulations such as lot size, frontage, required yards, building height, etc.
The location of each of these zones is shown on Schedule 'A' (Zoning Maps 1 to 21)
and Schedule 'B' (Hazard Zone Map). The specific uses and regulations applicable to
each zone are found in the relevant section(s) of the By-Law which bears the same
zone name(s). In order to determine the provisions of the By-Law that affect your
property, it is suggested that you use the following technique:
1)
Locate your property on a Zoning Schedule, which are the zoning maps
immediately following the last page of Section 14. If your land contains
part of a Hazard Zone (ZH) and further clarification is required to
determine the location of the Hazard Zone refer to Schedule 'B'.
2)
Identify the zone that has been applied to your land (e.g., R1 for
Single Detached Residential or C1 for Core Commercial).
3)
Once you have identified the zone, turn to the appropriate Zone which
outlines permitted uses and regulations. For example, if your property
is zoned C1, you would turn to the appropriate zone section to
determine the specific permitted uses and regulations affecting your
property. The Table of Contents will assist you in locating the
appropriate page number. Appendix 'A' is also provided to assist with
understanding the terminology of the By-law.
4)
If a zone symbol is followed by reference to Section 14 (e.g. 14.20)
then special provisions apply to the lands. The details of the special
provisions are found in the referenced provision in Section 14.
5)
Please note that most of the general provisions contained under
Section 5 also affect your property. Care should be taken to review
these general provisions as well as the applicable definitions outlined in
Section 4.
The Zoning By-Law is only one of many planning tools used to implement the
Official Plan. If it is intended to alter the use of a property, alter or erect a building
or structure, or alter a lot, you should be aware that it may be necessary to consult
other additional legislation or City By-Laws or other agencies.
The following applications, legislation or processes are outlined simply to assist in
understanding the scope of potential requirements:
1. Building Permit (Building Code and Zoning By-Law compliance);
How to Use the Zoning By-law
Updated: October 2010
2. Site Plan Control Approval (detailed plans showing the building envelope and
illustrating building massing, height, floor space, yard setbacks, parking,
loading, landscaping, etc., which may be implemented through a Site Plan
Control Agreement);
3. Consent Approval (alteration of a lot configuration, easement, right-of-way,
creation of a single lot, etc.);
4. Subdivision or Condominium Approval (to create multiple lots, to establish
new roads or to divide a building into multiple ownerships);
5. Minor Variance (to vary a zone regulation, a general provision or to extend or
change a non-conforming use);
6. Zoning Amendment (to amend sections of the Zoning By-Law as it relates to
a specific property);
7. Official Plan Amendment (to amend the Official Plan as it relates to a specific
property or a general policy consideration);
8. Heritage Permission (required if alterations are contemplated for a property
designated under Part IV or Part V of the Ontario Heritage Act);
9. Other City Permits or Licenses; and,
10.Permits, licenses of other agencies.
The Zoning By-Law should be considered in conjunction with all other relevant
legislative and City By-Laws.
For further information, the City of Owen Sound Planning Department and/or
Building Department should be consulted.
It is the landowner's responsibility to ensure that their actions are in compliance
with all federal, provincial, and City legislation and by-laws as well as other agency
requirements.
In addition to the requirements of this Zoning By-law certain lands within the City of
Owen Sound are regulated by Ontario Regulation 151/06. If a permit is required
from the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority for any work within a 'regulated area'
it must be obtained prior to obtaining a building permit from the City.
There are certain lands the Niagara Escarpment Development Control Area. Any
land, building or structure identified within the Niagara Escarpment Development
Control Area are subject to the Niagara Escarpment Plan and any permit
requirements of the Niagara Escarpment Commission."