The Planning and Approvals Division develops and maintains the Official Plan and Zoning By-laws. The Official Plan and Zoning By-law provide the framework for land use planning in the City.
We also review development proposals and process various planning and development applications under the Planning Act. These include:
- Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments;
- Consent to Sever and Minor Variances;
- Plan of Subdivision and Plan of Condominium; and
- Site Plan Approval.
Planning Services can help you determine if your proposal requires an application and what type is appropriate.
Planning Guidelines
The Planning Act |
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The Planning Act is provincial legislation that sets out the ground rules for land use planning in Ontario. It describes how land uses may be controlled, and who may control them. The purpose of the Act is to:
The Citizen's Guide to The Planning Act offers more information. |
Provincial Policy Statement |
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The Provincial Policy Statement, 2020 applies province wide. Its policies set out the government's land use vision for how we settle our landscape, create our built environment, and manage our land and resources over the long term to achieve livable and resilient communities. Planning decisions in Ontario must be consistent with the Provincial Policy Statement. |
Official Plan and Zoning |
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The Official Plan is our City's key land use document. It describes what kind of community we want to become in the future. It sets goals, objectives, and policies which guide our land use planning decisions. Everything the City does related to land use needs to conform to the Plan. The Zoning By-Law manages the present and future land use in the City. It is a tool used to implement the Official Plan's vision for the City on a day-to-day basis. The Zoning By-law divides the City into land use zones. Each zone has a list of permitted land uses and a set of regulations. There are regulations that apply to specific uses permitted in each zone. There are also general regulations that apply to all properties in any zone. |
Planning Applications and Fees |
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You should contact Planning Services before you buy land or apply for a building permit. A Planner can determine if you need to complete a planning application and what type is appropriate. They can also identify what information you may need to submit with your application. |
Community Improvement Plans |
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A Community Improvement Plan (CIP) allows the City to direct funds and implement initiatives towards specific projects that encourage rehabilitation and/or development. |
Heritage Conservation |
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Heritage Conservation in Belleville is an important part of the City's commitment to creating a sustainable community. |
Second Units Policy |
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Second Dwelling Units, sometimes referred to as accessory apartments are permitted in detached, semi-detached, townhouse dwellings or accessory buildings, subject to zoning requirements and restrictions. |
Planning Resources |
To obtain copies of any of the above documents please e-mail planning@belleville.ca. |
Frequently Asked Planning Questions |
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Please visit our frequently asked planning questions page to help answer general planning questions that you may have. |