What is rezoning?
Rezoning changes the zoning of a property under Zoning By-law 2016-040. It allows you to use land in a way that is not currently permitted, or to change the rules that apply to your property, such as building height, setbacks, or lot size. If your project does not match the current zoning, you will need to apply for a rezoning before you can get a building permit.
When do you need a rezoning?
- You want to build a new use that is not listed as permitted in your current zone.
- You need to change the lot lines, height limits, or parking requirements that the by-law sets out.
- You are proposing a development that requires a new zoning district to manage future design details.
If you only need a small change to the lot lines or a minor deviation from the by-law, you may qualify for a minor variance instead. Visit Minor variances to see if your project fits that route.
Step 1: Check the Official Plan
Before you start, review the City of Wrenford Official Plan (2018, office consolidation 2025). The Official Plan sets out long-term goals for land use across the city. Your rezoning request must be consistent with the Official Plan or you must show why a change to the Plan is needed. Read Official plan summary for a plain-language overview.
Step 2: Pre-application consultation
Contact the Planning and Development department to discuss your proposal. Our planners will review your site, check the zoning maps, and advise on what changes are realistic. You can email [email protected] or call 519-555-0100 to book a meeting. During this step, you may be asked to hold a community information session so neighbours can learn about your idea early on.
Step 3: Submit your application
Once you are ready, submit a formal rezoning application through our online portal or by mail. The application fee is $2,500.00 under Fees and Charges By-law 2025-151. You must include a site plan, a legal description of the property, and a letter of support from the property owner. Submit your application at Find a planning application.
Step 4: Public notification and consultation
After we receive your application, we will notify the public. This includes putting a sign on your property, mailing postcards to nearby property owners, and posting the application on our website. We will also hold an online question-and-answer period so the public can ask planners and the applicant questions. You can review the application file and share feedback on our public engagement platform.
Step 5: Staff report and Council decision
Our planning staff will review all feedback, consult with the Wrenford Police Service and Tamsin Valley Public Health where needed, and write a report for City Council. The report will recommend whether to approve, refuse, or refer the application to a public hearing. Council meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. If a public hearing is held, you can speak in person or by video link. Read more about Council meetings and how to make a presentation.
Step 6: Enactment and conditions
If Council approves the rezoning, they will pass a by-law to change the zoning. The approval will include conditions you must meet, such as paying a community amenity contribution, installing new utilities, or providing public trails. Once all conditions are satisfied, Council will enact the by-law. After enactment, you can apply for a development permit and then a building permit to start construction.
Tips for a smooth process
- Start with a pre-application meeting to avoid delays.
- Engage your neighbours early to address concerns before the public hearing.
- Work with a qualified engineer or architect who knows Wrenford's engineering standards.
- Check the Find a planning application page to see if a similar request was made nearby.
Contact
For questions about rezoning applications, contact the Planning and Development department at [email protected] or call 519-555-0100. If you need help with accessibility accommodations for a Council meeting, contact Katrina Doucet, our Accessibility Coordinator, at 519-555-0142.