Rules and guidance

Provincial Planning Statement, 2024

Learn how the Provincial Planning Statement sets the rules for land use planning in Ontario.

Citizen’s guide to land use planning

Learn about the rules and processes municipalities follow for community development and growth in Ontario.

Agricultural land use

Resources and information about best practices for agricultural land use.

Site plan control guide

Learn about the site plan review process and how it can be improved.

Zoning order framework

Read the framework for guidance on how to request a zoning order.

Provincial land use development plans

Learn how the Ontario government can propose development plans and get details on plans for Halton, Peel, York, Hamilton and Toronto.

Growth Plan for Northern Ontario

Learn how the province plans to attract investment and grow the economy in Northern Ontario.

Resources and services

Overview of land registry

Search land records or securely register documents and survey plans for a property – all in one place.

Search government land registration documents

Search a range of government documents, from technical bulletins to minister’s orders, regarding land registration.

Resources for transportation planners

Find resources, advice and guidelines to support municipalities and other transportation planners.

Applications, assessments and permissions

Applying for changes to land use

Find your planning approval authority and learn how to apply for changes to land use.

Environmental assessments

The environmental assessments process ensures that governments and public bodies consider potential environmental effects before an infrastructure project begins.

Environmental permissions

Find out about the different types of environmental permissions you or your business may need and how to apply for each.

Costs and funding

Brownfields financial tax incentive program

Learn how municipalities can apply for a tax incentive to help revitalize vacant property.

Municipal development and community benefits charges, and parklands

Information on how municipalities can predict and recover costs of development and help increase housing supply in Ontario.

Crown land

Ontario’s Crown land represents 87% of the province. It provides opportunities for economic development, tourism and recreation.

Contact us

Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing

Working with local governments and partners across Ontario to build safe and strong urban and rural communities with dynamic local economies, a high quality of life and affordable and suitable homes for everyone.

Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks

Leading to healthier communities and economic prosperity through protecting Ontario’s air, land and water.