The Land Use Bylaw regulates the acceptable land uses within the County. Uses can be either permitted or discretionary under a district. Permitted Uses refers to the use of a piece of land or a building for which a development permit must be issued with or without conditions once the application is made and which conforms to the Land Use Bylaw. Discretionary Uses are the use of a piece of land or a building for which a development permit may or may not be issued with or without conditions.
Amending the Municipal Development Plan or Land Use Bylaw
The Land Use Bylaw (LUB) contains rules and regulations for development on private land. An application to amend the LUB is required if you wish to develop a site in a manner that is not allowed in the current land use district or development regulations. A LUB amendment requires three readings by Council and a public hearing.
A Municipal Development Plan (MDP) is a high-level plan that establishes land use patterns and development policies for the entire County. All other statutory and non-statutory plans must be consistent with the MDP. Amendments are required if a landowner wants to deviate from the existing land use concept or policies. MDP amendments require three readings by Council and a public hearing.
Before submitting an application, the applicant should meet with Planning & Development Department staff to discuss their proposal, the purpose of the amendment, and the amendment process. Please arrange a meeting by calling 780-523-5955.