FAQs

A Zoning By-law sets out the rules for how land can be used and developed in Wasaga Beach. It provides clear direction on what is permitted on individual properties and helps ensure development is functional and compatible with surrounding uses.

The Zoning By-law regulates matters such as:

• What a property can be used for (for example, residential, commercial, or employment uses);
• Minimum lot sizes and dimensions;
• Where buildings can be located on a property (such as setbacks from property lines and maximum building coverage of the property);
• Minimum landscaped open space requirements;
• The height, size, and number of buildings permitted on a property, including accessory structures like sheds and gazebos; and,
• Parking requirements, including the number of spaces required and where parking can be located.

Under the Planning Act, a municipality’s Zoning By-law must conform with its Official Plan. Wasaga Beach’s current Zoning By-law (By-law 2003-60) was approved in 2003 to implement the policies of the Town’s former Official Plan.

Since that time, Wasaga Beach has experienced significant change. Planning policy at the provincial and county levels has evolved, and the Town has undertaken several major initiatives to guide growth, transportation, housing, and economic development.

In November 2025, Council approved a new Official Plan that sets out an updated vision, goals, and policies for land use, growth, and development in Wasaga Beach. To ensure consistency with this new direction, the Town is undertaking a comprehensive review and update of its Zoning By-law.

The new Zoning By-law will be designed to better implement the Official Plan and will be clearer, more user-friendly, and easier to navigate than the existing by-law.

The Official Plan provides the policy framework that guides generally how the Town grows and develops, while the Zoning By-law is one of the primary tools used to implement those policies on the ground.

Now that the new Official Plan is in the process of being approved, the Comprehensive Zoning By-law Review will focus on bringing zoning regulations into conformity with that plan. This includes ensuring that permitted uses, development standards, and zoning regulations align with the Official Plan’s policies and other community priorities.

Through this review, the Town will also work to ensure that zoning supports broader objectives such as:

• Building complete and inclusive neighbourhoods;
• Providing a range of housing types and options;
• Protecting people and property from natural hazards; and
• Supporting sustainable growth and economic development.

There will be multiple opportunities for residents, landowners, businesses, and stakeholders to get involved throughout the Comprehensive Zoning By-law Review. Engagement activities may include public open houses, online engagement opportunities, and meetings with key stakeholder groups.

This project webpage will be updated regularly with project information, background materials, and opportunities for public input. You can also subscribe to the page to receive updates and notifications as the project moves forward.