What is the purpose of the Zoning and Development Bylaw?

    Zoning and Development Bylawgenerally establish 

    • The purposes for which land, buildings and structures in any zone may be used; 

    • Standards for the placement, Erection, Alteration, and use of Buildings and Structures;  

    • The use of a Permit system that includes the application for a Development Permit, Building Permit, Sign Permit, Footing Permit, Demolition Permit and Moving Permit; 

    • Standards for Subdivision approval and the Subdivision application process; Standards for the design and placement of a Sign. 

    This Zoning and Development Bylaw Update will look for opportunities to expand and refine each section of the bylaw to enhance clarity and efficiency of the overall bylaw.  

    Who is involved in the development of the Zoning and Development Bylaw?

    The Zoning and Development Bylaw update is being developed with consultant support from Fathom Studios and Trace Studios who will be working in partnership with City staff.  

    A key component of establishing a new Zoning and Development Bylaw is engagement with residents, stakeholders, business owners, City staff and members of Council. 

    Why update the Zoning and Development Bylaw?

    As the community continues to evolve, it is essential that our Zoning and Development Bylaws reflect the needs and aspirations of our residents while also promoting sustainable and responsible development. 

    The City of Charlottetown has also received funding from the Federal Government Housing Accelerator Fund to encourage local initiatives to build more homes, faster. Updating the City of Charlottetown Official Plan and Zoning and Development Bylaw are one of 8 initiatives established as part of this funding.  

    How will an Updated Zoning and Development Bylaw benefit Charlottetown?

    Updating the Zoning and Development Bylaw allows City regulatory documents (i.e, the Official Plan, Zoning and Development Bylaw, Heritage Preservation Bylaw) and Provincial Regulations to work together more efficiently. This update process also allows the Zoning and Development Bylaw to establish regulations that better meet the current and future needs of the City.  

    How can I participate in the Zoning and Development Bylaw Update?

    Engagement opportunities for the Draft Zoning and Development Bylaw, begin on April 7th2025, and will be ongoing throughout the summer and fall. During the engagement process, the City will provide numerous opportunities to provide feedback, including a Public Survey, Open Houses, Community Meetings, as well as other forms of engagement and opportunities. 

    What is the difference between the Zoning and Development Bylaw and the Official Plan?

    The Official Plan is a long-term plan that establishes the strategic direction for how land will be used and developed in the City. It also establishes goals, objectives, and policies for the management of growth in the City.  

    The Zoning and Development Bylaw is a regulatory planning document that establishes zoning uses and regulations to govern development and growth in the City  

    Both documents complement each other and are developed with extensive community engagement. The Official Plan and the Zoning and Development Bylaw are key planning documents that guide future growth in the City of Charlottetown.