Municipal Planning Data Report

• The Official Plan sets out goals, objectives and policies that guide how the municipality will grow and develop over time.
• An Official Plan amendment application is a formal request to change specific policies or land use designations in Clarington’s Official Plan.

• Clarington’s two Zoning By-laws implement the policies of the Official Plan and allow for its day-to-day administration by overseeing things like land uses (retail stores, factories, residential dwellings, etc.), building size and height, parking, and other provisions that result in high-quality development.
• A Zoning By-law amendment is a change to the local laws or regulations that govern the community. The amendment usually requires a formal process, like public hearings and a vote by the local council. 

• A site plan is a detailed drawing that illustrates the layout of a proposed development, including building locations, access points, landscaping, and utilities, to ensure compliance with local regulations.
• Site plan applications are requests submitted for approval of the detailed design and layout of a specific development project on a particular site. This process ensures that the proposed development is designed in a manner that is both functional and attractive, while minimizing adverse impacts on the surrounding lands.

• Minor variances are requests made to a municipality to allow deviations from specific zoning by-law requirements.
• Minor variance applications are typically sought when a property owner wants to make small changes that don't significantly alter the overall character or use of the property. 

• Land severances refer to the legal process of dividing a single parcel of land into two or more separate lots. This is typically done to allow for the sale, development, or use of the newly created lots independently.
• A land severance consent is an official approval granted by the Municipality to divide a piece of land into separate parcels. The consent ensures that the division complies with local zoning laws, planning policies, and regulations. 

• Plans of subdivision are detailed proposals for dividing a larger parcel of land into smaller lots or parcels for development purposes, such as residential, commercial, or industrial use. This process is crucial for organizing land use and ensuring that new developments meet local planning and zoning regulations.
• An application for a plan of subdivision typically involves submitting detailed plans that show how the land will be divided, along with information about infrastructure, utilities, and compliance with local regulations. The application is reviewed by the Municipality to ensure it meets zoning laws and community standards before approval.

Minister's Zoning Orders (MZOs) are directives issued by the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing in Ontario that allow for specific land use changes without the usual municipal planning processes.