Site Plan

Learn what a site plan is in Canadian real estate — why it’s required, what it includes, and how it supports successful project approvals.

Site Plan

July 27, 2025


What is a Site Plan?

A site plan is a detailed drawing that illustrates how a piece of land is intended to be developed or redeveloped, showing building footprints, boundaries, access points, landscaping, utilities, and other relevant features.

Why a Site Plan Matters in Real Estate

In Canadian real estate and construction, site plans are required by municipalities for reviewing and approving new development or significant redevelopment projects.



Key information included in a site plan:
  • Property boundaries and lot dimensions
  • Building footprints and setbacks
  • Parking, walkways, and vehicle access
  • Utility connections, grading, and drainage
  • Landscaping and outdoor amenities



A complete site plan ensures compliance with zoning, building codes, and urban design standards. It helps stakeholders visualize the project and identify potential issues early in the approval process.

Example of a Site Plan in Action

The architect prepared a site plan detailing proposed building locations and parking layouts to submit with the permit application.

Key Takeaways

  • Essential document for development approvals
  • Shows site layout, access, and amenities
  • Ensures zoning and code compliance
  • Helps avoid design and construction conflicts
  • Required for most major building projects

Related Terms

Additional Terms

Public Realm Improvements

Public realm improvements are enhancements to public spaces such as sidewalks, parks, plazas, and streetscapes, often funded or contributed by. more

Mortgagee in Possession

A mortgagee in possession is a lender who takes control of a property after borrower default, but before foreclosure or power of sale. The lender. more

Lease Surrender Agreement

A lease surrender agreement is a negotiated contract between a landlord and tenant that ends a lease before its scheduled expiration. Terms may. more

Green Infrastructure

Green infrastructure refers to natural or engineered systems that manage stormwater, reduce heat, and improve sustainability in developments.. more

Escrow Holdback

An escrow holdback is a portion of funds withheld at closing and held in escrow until specific conditions are met, such as completion of repairs,. more

Underused Housing Tax

The Underused Housing Tax (UHT) is a federal annual 1% tax on the value of vacant or underused residential property owned by non-resident,. more

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