A development proposal may need a zoning amendment, official plan amendment, site plan approval or another planning process. Start by establishing the correct application route with the local municipality.
Discuss the proposal early
Ask what consultation process is available, which applications are needed, and which plans or studies apply. Do not assume every proposal has the same mandatory consultation process.
Identify every reviewing authority
Ask whether Regional roads or water and sewer services are affected and whether other agency input is needed. Record each authority’s requirements so that one approval is not mistaken for all approvals.
Confirm the decision process
Ask about current fees, complete-application requirements, notices, public input, decision authority and any appeal rights. These depend on the application and current law.
Continue your research here
Who to check with: your municipality, Durham Region, or both. Use our municipality guides to prepare property-specific questions.
Official sources and verification
Sources checked October 1, 2026. These links support verification; the practical guidance is provided above.
This guide is a research starting point, not a determination of what is allowed on a property. We try to keep content updated, but cannot guarantee accuracy, completeness or currency. Confirm requirements with your municipality, Durham Region, or both, as applicable. Illustrations are not official boundary maps.