The Planning and Heritage Division provides a 'one window' main contact to applicants seeking information on potential property development or change of use in the City of Owen Sound. The Planning and Heritage Division together with the Engineering Services Division form the basis of the City of Owen Sound Development Team. Together, when a development proposal is brought forward, they will determine which of the other City departments and key external agencies would be most helpful to bring to the Development Team table.
Planning Pre-consultation
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
A cornerstone of the development process is a plan showing the proposal. On the basis of a site plan (sample site plan), the Planning and Heritage Division can confirm whether your proposal can proceed to building permit and if additional steps or information is required.
Depending on the complexity of the application, the pre-consultation process as a whole may take up to two (2) months. Complete pre-consultation packages will significantly shorten the review time of any formal application.
Who Gets my Application after the Planning and Heritage Division?
The Planning and Heritage Division uses the requirements of the Planning Act to write a report to either Council or the Committee of Adjustment.
The Committee of Adjustment considers applications for minor variance to the Zoning By-law and applications for consent.
For Official Plan amendments and Zoning By-law amendments, the application will go to Council. The Planning and Heritage Division also works with the Community Services Committee and Grey County Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee.
Contact Us
808 2nd Avenue East,
Owen Sound, ON
N4K 2H4
Phone: 519-376-1440
Email us
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