Zoning

Our Zoning By-law* is a legal document that regulates the use of land within the municipality. The by-law regulates, among other things:

  • What each parcel of land can be used for (permitted uses);
  • Where and what types of buildings or structures may be located on the land; and
  • Lot sizes, parking lots, building heights and setbacks.

Bill 23 has created new opportunities for additional residential units which are not yet reflected in the zoning by-law. Find out more in this Explanatory Note to Bill 23 – Accessory Residential Units. Please contact the Building Department at 519-396-3468 for permitting requirements to create an Accessory Residential Unit or Secondary Suite.

 

General information is also available on our Building and Renovating webpage.

*This By-Law is not a live document and may not contain all recently updated changes and amendments – please consult the Development Services Department regarding any updates and zoning inquiries.

Comprehensive Zoning By-Law Review

View our Comprehensive Zoning By-Law Engagement content on KincardineTalks.ca

Zoning Review - Public Comment Map

July 2022 / prepared by MHBC

Introduction

The Municipality of Kincardine is embarking on an important project to update the comprehensive Zoning By-law, and has retained MHBC Planning to complete this work.

What is a Zoning By-Law?

The Zoning By-law is a legal document which specifies how land can be used through regulations that govern a variety of topics (e.g. property setbacks, building heights etc.) and permissions (e.g. residential, commercial, agricultural, industrial). The Municipality’s current bylaw requires an update as a result of the recent approval of the Municipality’s new Official Plan in 2021.  The Planning Act requires that municipalities amend their Zoning By-laws within three (3) years of a new Official Plan being in effect. It is also important to ensure the Zoning By-law reflects current practices, changes to provincial policy, and supports the strategic directions of the Municipality.  

What’s next?

The consultants are currently reviewing all components of the Zoning By-law including a detailed assessment of all zoning categories. The primary objective of this review will be to ensure that it is consistent with the new Official Plan. This review will also ensure that the Zoning By-law is reflective of current standards and best practices. There will be opportunities for public input and agency throughout the review process.  A preliminary report regarding the direction of the Zoning By-law changes is expected to be released in August 2022, with the first public meeting tentatively scheduled for this Fall.  If you wish to stay informed and be notified of any future meetings or decisions associated with the comprehensive review please subscribe here

What about existing applications?

Any applications for Zoning By-law amendments or minor variances may be made during the comprehensive review process in accordance with the Planning Act and will be considered on their own merits under the provisions of existing Zoning By-law.

Property Zones

The zoning by-law classifies properties into several categories such as but not limited to:

  • Residential
  • Commercial
  • Industrial
  • Agricultural
  • Environmentally Protected

Each zone has specific provisions regarding the use of land is that zone. Such as but not limited to:

  • Permitted uses
  • Location of buildings on property
  • Set backs, frontage, maximum lot coverage, maximum height etc.
  • Parking requirements
  • Driveway requirements

Zoning By-law Amendments

If you would like to use or develop your property in a way that is not a permitted use as per the Zoning By-law a zoning amendment may be required. Please contact the building department to check if your proposal requires a zoning change before applying. Municipal Council is the approval authority for zoning by-law amendments.

Apply for a Zoning Amendment

Applications for zoning by-law amendments are coordinated through the Bruce County Planning department.

Active Zoning Amendment Files

Visit the Bruce County Planning website for active planning files.

Consent or Severance

Consent or severances are planning processes regarding the division of land. There are several types of consent applications. The most common include:

  • Lot creation (severance)
  • Lot addition
  • Easement (right-of-way)

Consent (Severance) Application

If you would like to develop property that involves lot creation (severance), lot addition, or easement please contact the Building Department to set up a consultation with the County Planner. The County of Bruce is the approval authority for consent applications.

Apply for a Consent

Consent applications are coordinated through the Bruce County Planning department.

Active Consent Files

Visit the Bruce County Planning website for active planning files.

Contact(s)