Planning

The basic intent of this Official Plan is to guide future development to areas where it is most suited and to protect the environment of the Township in order to preserve, protect and enhance the character and economy of the Township.

The Official Plan is intended to form the foundation for decisions of Council and government agencies. This Official Plan is also intended to provide members of the public with a sense of assurance as to the future development of their lands and the lands around them. The policies of this Official Plan are intended to clearly describe development policies and the plans of the Township and to delineate a future development plan for the Township. In addition, this Plan will guide public works and other capital investments of the Township.

This Official Plan is intended to manage land use change in a manner that has the greatest positive impact on the Township while ensuring the sustainability of the environment and the character of the community. This Official Plan establishes the pattern that development within the Township of Nipigon should follow until 2032. In accordance with the Planning Act, this Plan will be reviewed at least every five years to determine whether the basis has changed and whether the Official Plan continues to manage change and growth in the Township. Where the term ‘development’ is used in this Plan, the policies apply to proposals that requiring planning approval from the Township.

Zoning

The Township of  Nipigon’s Zoning By-law regulates the use of land and location of any buildings and structures. It states exactly what land uses are allowed and provides details such as:

• where buildings or structures can be located
• types of uses and dwellings permitted
• standards for lot size, yard dimensions and setbacks, building height and parking requirements

You can view the maps in Zoning By-law - Schedule A.

Zoning By-law Amendments

If you are planning a new development, you need to ensure that your proposal complies with the Zoning By-law. If not, you will need to apply for a Zoning By-law Amendment.

Please contact our Township Planner to discuss your project prior to completing the Zoning By-law Amendment Application.

You are required to get a building permit before you begin a new construction or renovation project on your property. Your project must comply with the Zoning By-law and the Ontario Building Code.

Permit Application

Complete the Building Permit Application and submit it to the Chief Building Official for the Township at 52 Front Street or by email.  A preliminary appointment will be scheduled to review your application and supporting site plan, drawings etc.

In up to 10 working days, you will receive notification of your building permit approval if all requirements have been met.

For more information call the Building Department at 887-3135 ex. 228.

Fees

How To Plan Your Construction Project

Slide 1 - Plan

Slide 2 - Connect

Slide 3 - Hire a Designer

Slide 4 - Get Proper Approvals

Slide 5 - Hire Professionals

Slide 6 - Call for Inspections

Slide 7 - Get Final Approval

Slide 8 - ENJOY

Source: Ontario Building Officials Association (OBOA), May 2021

Projects That Require a Building Permit

According to the Building Code Act, a building permit is required for the construction or installation of a new structure or the construction of an addition or alteration of any structure. The following projects require a building permit:

• new structures (residential, commercial, industrial and institutional)
• accessory buildings (larger than 10 square metres)
• any addition to a structure, regardless of the size of the addition
• interior alterations to create new rooms in a basement/attic or converting a garage to living space
• any structural changes including interior partitions
• adding structural features such as decks, balconies, canopies, etc.
• repairs or renovations
• a new entrance or new window opening
• adding new dormers
• raising the house to provide a full basement or first storey or to excavate the basement to provide a full basement
• enclosing a porch/roof or sundeck
• constructing a retaining wall larger than 3 feet and 3 inches of exposed height
• installing a pool or hot tub
• installing a fireplace or woodstove
• interior alterations to non-residential units
• any installation or alteration of a plumbing system
• replacing a sewer line/water service line
• converting from a septic system to Town sewer or water
• change of use