A Zoning By-Law controls the use of land in your community, such as:
- How land may be used
- Where buildings and other structures can be located
- The types of buildings that are permitted and how they may be used
- The lot sizes and dimensions, parking requirements, building heights and setbacks from the street.
If a proposed development is not permitted in a zone or if it does not meet the standards of that zone, a Zoning Bylaw may need to be changed or 'amended'. A Zoning Bylaw amendment is a Bylaw passed by City Council.
Zoning Bylaw Amendment Process
1) Preconsultation Meeting
The City of Burlington requires that preconsultation with City and Agency staff occurs prior to the submission of a development application.
- Submit a Preconsultation Request Form [PDF] and a development concept plan to City Staff.
- A preconsultation meeting is scheduled with staff from the City of Burlington, Halton Region, and (if required) Conservation Halton to discuss the development proposal.
- Applicant will be advised of planning applications required and whether background studies will be needed.
- A Preconsultation Agreement outlining the requirements for a complete application will be signed by applicant and staff at the meeting.
Contact the Planning & Building Department at 905-335-7642 or by email at city@burlington.ca to submit your request for a preconsultation meeting.
2) Application
- Submit a complete application (PDF) to Burlington's Planning Division, including the required fees (PDF) and background studies.
- Post a sign on the property describing the proposed development.
- Application will be given to agencies and city departments for comments.
- Planning will make a recommendation that City Council approve, modify, or refuse the application.
3) Neighbourhood Notification
- Notices will be sent to properties located within 120 m of the subject property (300 m in the rural area).
- Neighbours are invited to send written comments by mail, fax or email.
- A neighbourhood meeting may be held to review the planning process and the development proposal.
Read more about the planning process and how to get involved.