Responsibilities
Planning, Building and Development is responsible for land use management and building construction. Growth to 2031 is directed through a long range planning document called the Official Plan. Zoning By-laws set out regulation on permitted uses, setbacks and development requirements. Construction is implemented through Building and Demolition permits issued under the Ontario Building Code.
The Planning Division is comprised of the Policy and Current Development Sections. These Sections are responsible for amendments to the Official Plan and Zoning By-laws which are considered at Public Meetings held by City Council. Minor Variances to the Zoning By-laws are considered by the Committee of Adjustment. Secondary Plans are prepared to direct future development in new “greenfield” areas.
In new growth areas, development occurs through the Subdivision Process to create streets, lots for houses and blocks for apartments, parks and schools. Within the built-up areas of the City, individual lots may be created through consents to sever land, where roads and services exist. Prior to construction of new commercial and industrial operations or apartment and townhouse projects, builders and developers must obtain a Site Plan Agreement through Planning staff.
Planning and Building maintain statistics on building permits, housing population and future land supply. Planning also maintains an inventory of built and natural environmental hazards and heritage architecture.
Functions & Services
Current Planning
Long Range Planning
Contact
Planning Division
City of Niagara Falls
4310 Queen Street, PO Box 1023
Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
L2E 6X5
[email protected]
