COUNCIL CONNECTION: Georgina in the process of updating its zoning bylaw

Yorkregion.com
Sept. 7, 2021

First phase of review will start in Keswick, Sutton and other rural countrysides, writes Mayor Margaret Quirk

The Town of Georgina is starting the process to update our zoning bylaw to ensure it follows our official plan. This is a process required by provincial legislation.

So just what does that mean? What is a zoning bylaw and an official plan?

An official plan has policies and objectives to manage and direct land use and future growth for a municipality.

A zoning bylaw is used to implement those policies.

Zoning bylaws outline how a property can be used, what type of use of the building is permitted, where buildings can be located, how high they can be, the setback from the street and other property lines.

In order to receive a building permit, the property must have the proper zoning for the intended use.

For example, zoning can determine if a property can be used for residential purposes or commercial and industrial purposes.

Further details with residential zoning will determine if the property can be a single family home, townhouses or an apartment building.

The first phase of the review will start with the rural countryside area. That includes all lands located outside of settlement areas, such as Keswick, Sutton, Jackson’s Point, Pefferlaw, hamlets and the Lake Shore Residential area.

So what does this review mean for my property?

If your property is located within the study area, there is a good chance it will be rezoned in some way. This may affect the uses that are permitted on your property, and where buildings and structures for permitted uses may be located.

Where can I get more information?

The town has a dedicated web page with details of the review process, maps and links to staff reports and information on the public engagement process. Visit georgina.ca/ZoningBylawUpdate for more information.

The town will be holding a public open house and notices will be placed in the Georgina Advocate and on the town’s social media and website.

To receive updates or to ask questions, email ZoningBylawUpdate@georgina.ca.

An introductory letter on the process is being mailed to assessed property owners in the rural countryside area in the next few days.

I encourage residents to become aware and engaged in this important process.