After an eight-month delay of the approval by the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Ottawa’s Official Plan came into effect November 4, 2022.
This delay, combined with the complexities of Bill 23, (More Homes Built Faster Act), Bill 109 (More Homes for Everyone Act, April 2022), and the potential impact of these bills on Zoning By-law means more time is needed to review the work that was previously completed on the new Zoning By-law to ensure it is consistent with the revised Official Plan, and Bill 23.
This week Staff outlined the revised timeline, which will result in Staff delivering the final draft of the new by-law to Council six months later than initially planned (in Q4 of 2025, rather than Q2). While the By-law amendments will be delayed, the City has 3 years to complete the amendments, and the new timeline will still meet this goal.
Staff also outlined the opportunities the public will have to provide input for each draft.
The Zoning Discussion Papers will be the first opportunity for residents to have their say about the future of zoning in the city of Ottawa. Residents can expect discussion papers on the following topics:
- Climate Change, Resiliency and Public Health
- Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
- Land Use
- Neighbourhood Zoning
- Neighbourhood Character
- Rural Zoning Issues
- Trees
A public information session will be held March 7th that will review the impacts of Provincial Legislation and how the City is adapting to these changes. Topics will include Bill 109, Bill 23, the Official Plan, and the impact on planning related matters.
You may register HERE.
The City also has a webpage devoted to Provincial legislation affecting Planning, Real Estate and Economic Development to help keep residents up to date on these Bills, as well as communications to councillors, and an FAQ section.
