Planning Act Applications and How To Apply
Anyone wishing to place a building or structure on their property from a deck or garden shed to a new shopping plaza or apartment building should contact the Planning and Heritage Division to ensure the proposal is permitted and located appropriately. Each application is evaluated on its merits and compliance with applicable laws.
Please use the City's Development Application Guidelines to inform and assist you through the Planning Act application and approvals process.
Be advised, as of July 1, 2023, our Planning Application fees have changed. An updated list of our fees can be found here. The City's Fees and Charges By-law can be found in its entirety on our By-laws and Policies webpage.
General Information - Planning Application Form
When formal application under the Planning Act is required, in accordance with the Official Plan, the applicant is required to consult with the Planning and Heritage Division to initially outline the City's requirements for the proposed application. Through the pre-consultation process, applicants will be made aware of the necessary requirements of a 'complete' formal application under the Planning Act.
This initial step provides the applicant with an understanding of the necessary application processes, expected studies, drawings, and documents that will be required for the City to make an informed decision on the merits of a formal application. Pre-consultation allows the applicant to understand the potential costs and timeline of the project at the outset.
Staff will also be able to advise applicants if the application is difficult to support on a policy basis. Staff will also let you know if there are any opportunities for financial assistance under the Community Improvement Plan to support your proposal.
Under Section 41 of the Planning Act, the City of Owen Sound has passed a Site Plan Control By-law to designate the City a site plan control area.
The following types of development are subject to site plan approval:
- Industrial, commercial and institutional development
- Multiple residential development in excess of 4 units
Site plans are required for new projects and redevelopment projects. There are exceptions to this general list (i.e. low density residential and additions less than 30 square metres). Please contact the Planning and Heritage Division to determine if a particular development project is subject to site plan approval.
Plan of Subdivision/Condominium
Prior to submitting an application for Draft Plans of Subdivision or Condominium, all applicants must first undertake a mandatory Pre-consultation process to outline the City's requirements to support an application. Applications submitted prior to pre-consultation will not be considered complete. Please contact the Planning and Heritage Division for more information regarding the fees and requirements for this process.
City Development Charges Exemption
City Engineering Services Review
Grey Sauble Conservation Planning Review
Complete the Property Inquiry Request Form and submit your cheque via mail or drop off in person at City Hall (808 2nd Avenue East, Owen Sound, ON N4K 2H4).
Prior to submitting an application to amend the Official Plan, all applicants must first undertake a mandatory Pre-consultation process. Please contact the Planning and Heritage Division for more information regarding the fees and requirements for this process.
Prior to submitting an application to amend the Zoning By-law, all applicants must first undertake a mandatory Pre-consultation process. Please contact the Planning and Heritage Division for more information regarding the fees and requirements for this process.
Contact Us
808 2nd Avenue East,
Owen Sound, ON
N4K 2H4
Phone: 519-376-1440
Email us
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