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PLANNING SERVICES DEPARTMENT- 

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The Planning Services Department is responsible for the preparation of and recommendation to City Council regarding proposed changes (amendments) to the City's principal land use planning documents,  the Official Plan which incorporates the general goals, objectives and policies governing land use within the City and in conformity with the Official Plan, the Comprhensive Zoning By-law 85-95.  The administration of the Zoning By-law with respect to interpretation of permitted uses, the provisions of the by-law such as set backs, building permits, licensing and complaints regarding illegal uses through the Zoning Branch of the Building Services Department.

The Planning Services Department is also responsible for the processing and management of applications to develop land through Plans of Subdivision, Condominium Developments and Site Plans.  In addition, the Department administers Heritage Barrie,  a Committee which deals with Heritage preservation and designation of historic buildings. The Planning Department in conjunction with the Finance Department administers Financial Incentives in the form of grants and loan programs for improvements and rehabilitation projects within The Next Wave Community Improvement Project Area. The Department  also prepares recommendations related to Committee of Adjustment applications for consents and minor variances.

The Department is also actively involved in a number of long term and special research projects relating to issues which may affect land use planning and development, environmental protection, heritage conservation and economic development opportunities for the future of the City.

The Department responds to general enquires related to land use in the City as well as specific enquires related to proposed development applications, prepares statistical information and mapping, and provides expert planning evidence at Ontario Municipal Board hearings.

Branches

The Planning Services Department is located on the 9th floor of City Hall

Policy Planning, Research and Special Studies

• Preparation of the City of Barrie Official Plan.
• Preparation of Secondary Plans.
• Review of applications and recommendations related to proposed changes to the City's Official Plan and Zoning By-Law.
• Research and Special Studies related to land use issues.
• Review and Recommendations re: Façade and Streetscape Program

Development Services

• Review and Recommendations re: Plan of Subdivision applications.
• Review and Recommendations re: Site Plan applications.
• Review and Recommendations re: Committee of Adjustments applications.

Technical Services

• Population and Land Use Statistics
• The Subdivision Paper outlining the status of subdivisions and their mix of housing
• General Mapping and Air Photos
• Area Specific Mapping