Official Plan

What is an Official Plan?

An Official Plan is a statutory document which sets out the land use policy directions for long-term growth and development in a municipality. It is not to be confused with the Zoning By-law which further details the broad range of land uses set out in the Official Plan. The current Official Plan for the City of Oshawa was approved by the Minister of Municipal Affairs on February 12, 1987.

The Oshawa Official Plan contains policies governing various land use designations, such as Residential, Commercial, Industrial, Agricultural and Open Space and Recreation. These designations are broadly established on a land use map. Other policies relate to Environmental Management, Transportation and Community Improvement. More detailed policies and land uses for certain areas of the City are found in Part II (Secondary) Plans.

While the Official Plan is intended to establish the policies for long-term growth, the Plan is periodically reviewed to ensure that it continues to meet the changing economic, social and environmental needs of the municipality. Occasionally, it is necessary to amend the policies and/or designations contained in the Official Plan in order to facilitate new development or redevelopment proposals. Opportunities for public review and input are provided prior to the City adopting any Official Plan Amendments.

For information on how to apply for an amendment to the Official Plan, click here.

What is the process for Official Plan Amendments?

What is the process for Official Plan Amendments?

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