What is city planning

City planning is a process that helps us manage land and resources. It shapes our communities by identifying where we should build homes, businesses, parks and schools, while considering social, economic and environmental concerns.

It’s guided by rules found in different planning policies. City planners must follow these rules as we plan for the future growth of our city and review proposals for new private development.

Public consultation is a critical part of the process and information gathered through public feedback helps shape how neighbourhoods are developed.

Why planning is important

It’s important to plan so we can change and grow in a way that benefits everyone in the community.​

Planning helps us:

• Adapt to change
• Identify where essential services are needed
• Make sure infrastructure supports new development
• Conserve our heritage land and properties
• Protect the biodiversity, ecosystems, land and rock formations that make up our natural heritage
• Address challenges like climate change, housing, social inequity, affordability and transportation through policy

The City's role in planning

City planners collaborate with residents, businesses, developers and other parties to balance their needs with legislative requirements, while considering environmental, economic and social impacts.

Planners help set the vision for how land should be used. They work on city-led studies and policies that guide how and where future growth should happen and address challenges the city is facing.

Planners also review all applications for changes to the use of land, the design of new buildings, changes to existing buildings and other new development to make sure they meet our vision for the city.