Buying and Selling Property

What do I need to know and what should I be asking?

Buying a property is a big decision. It is wise to arm yourself with as much information as possible about the property. You can call or visit the Planning and Development Services Department to learn about the property, including the existing approved use, as well as any future uses that are permitted, and any historical information on that property. It is helpful to bring a Land Survey Plan of the property so staff can verify that it conforms to the applicable Zoning By-Law.

Planning and Development Services Staff can advise you on:

• Availability of a building permit
• Development charges and lot levies
• Other approvals that may be required
• Permitted uses on your property and neighbouring properties
• Future land uses and infrastructure identified in the Official Plan
• Potential for future land severance
• Potential for creating an apartment-in-house within the dwelling
• Historical property use, if known
• Tree removal
• General development in your area, including plans of subdivision, housing types and densities, commercial development, location of proposed schools and parks, location and capacity of roads and environmentally sensitive areas
• Provincial policies

Apply for a zoning clearance letter

To obtain an official verification that a property complies with the Zoning By-law, you can apply for a land use information and compliance letter. Please refer to the fee schedule for the current fees. The zoning clearance letter application fee must be paid online at the time of application.

Apply for a zoning clearance letter

How long does it take?

A zoning clearance letter is usually completed within 10 business days and will be emailed to the address provided on the application form.