PLANNING SERVICES ...

Planning Policy evolves over time in response to changing economic, social and environmental factors. It involves the preparation of long term land use plans for the Municipality which guide the management of land and resources. The key document for governing future growth is the Clarington Official Plan. The Plan is based on 3 principals - sustainable development; managed growth; and, a healthy community - and is implemented (in part) through the regulations detailed in the Municipality's Zoning By-Law.

Development Approval Services is the branch responsible for processing applications for land use development and/or change. Applications include plans of subdivision; rezoning; site plan agreements; sign permits and registration of in-house apartments. Staff work closely with both applicants and the staff of the Municipality's Building Services Division to ensure the project meets municipal objectives and complies with all associated Provincial legislation (e.g. fire and building codes). The Committee of Adjustment is a Council appointed group of citizens who review projects that do not fit within the exact regulations of the Municipality's Zoning By-law. The Committee can authorize minor variances provided that the intent of the Official Plan and Zoning By-law are not compromised and is compatible with the surrounding area.

Community Development Initiatives are activities in which staff work with community volunteers to improve our quality of life. Planning Services consult with local committees assisting them in committee development, funding proposals and administrative support. Committees assisted include: Local Architectural Heritage Conservation Advisory Committee (LACAC); Agricultural Advisory Committee of Clarington; Valleys 2000; and the St Marys Cement Community Relations Committee.

Research and Special Studies involves social, economic, demographic and land use issues which are undertaken to assist Council in it's decision making. Planning Services is also responsible for the hiring and locating of School Crossing Guards.

This is to ensure the safe movement of students across major roads to and from elementary schools in Clarington. This service is provided in partnership with the the Public and Separate School Districts who are responsible for submitting requests for new crossing guard locations. Geomatic Services are available to internal and external customers. The service includes digitized mapping, thematic analysis, orthophots and property addresses.