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Official Plan

Explore what an official plan is in Canadian real estate, how it guides municipal growth, and why it’s essential for development and land use planning.

Official Plan

May 22, 2025


What is an Official Plan?

An official plan is a long-term policy document created by a municipality that outlines its vision for land use, growth, and development over a set planning horizon.

Why Official Plans Matter in Real Estate

In Canadian real estate, an official plan guides decisions about zoning, infrastructure, housing, transportation, environmental protection, and economic development. These plans are approved by municipal councils and reviewed by provincial authorities.



Key elements of an official plan may include:


  • Designated land uses (residential, commercial, industrial)
  • Areas for intensification or urban expansion
  • Policies on heritage conservation or environmental protection
  • Future road networks, transit corridors, and amenities

Developers and investors consult official plans to assess the long-term potential of a site. Landowners may apply to amend an official plan if they seek to change how their property is used. Public consultation is usually required for major updates.

Understanding a municipality’s official plan helps homeowners and stakeholders anticipate changes, navigate development approvals, and align projects with local planning objectives.

Example of an Official Plan

A developer proposes a mid-rise apartment project on land zoned for single-family homes. They must request an amendment to the city’s official plan to proceed.

Key Takeaways

  • Guides land use and development policy.
  • Adopted by municipalities and approved provincially.
  • Impacts zoning, transportation, and housing.
  • Required reading for developers and planners.
  • Can be amended through public process.

Related Terms

  • Zoning
  • Land Use Bylaws
  • Municipal Planning
  • Variance
  • Urban Growth Boundary

Additional Terms

Land Banking

Gentrification is the process by which a traditionally lower-income neighbourhood undergoes revitalization and attracts higher-income residents,. more

Land Assembly

Land assembly is the process of acquiring and consolidating multiple adjacent parcels of land under one ownership, typically for redevelopment or. more

Joint Venture

A joint venture in real estate is a partnership between two or more parties to develop, own, or operate a property or project, sharing risks, costs,. more

Infill Development

Infill development is the process of building new housing, commercial buildings, or amenities on vacant or underutilized land within existing urban areas.. more

Inclusionary Zoning

Inclusionary zoning is a municipal planning tool that requires or incentivizes developers to include a percentage of affordable housing units in new. more

Impact Fees

Impact fees are charges levied by municipalities on new developments to offset the cost of additional public infrastructure and services required by. more

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