The Planning Department maintains the vision set out in the County of Essex Official Plan.
The Planning Department:
- Advises County Council on land use, economic development and strategic planning
- Provides information to our municipalities and residents
- Develops land use policies
- Approves local Official Plans, part lot control by-laws and plans of subdivision and condominium.
Official Plan
The County of Essex Official Plan outlines how land should be used. It was prepared with input from our municipalities and the public to make sure future development meets community needs. The plan guides our growth until 2031.
Official Plan Amendments
You must provide supporting documentation if you are applying to amend the Official Plan and you must answer the following questions:
- Is your plan consistent with the Provincial Policy Statement?
- Is it consistent with the official plan's vision?
- What are the benefits? How will it impact the County's financial and human resources?
- What impact does it have on transportation?
- If it proposes to expand a Settlement Area boundary, has it been justified as part of a comprehensive review?
- If it proposes a change of employment area to non-employment uses, has it been justified as part of a comprehensive review?
Site Plans
Local municipalities prepare and approve site plans. County approval is required when a County Road is affected and appropriate permits must be obtained.
Planning Department Fees:
County Official Plan Amendment: $2,000
Plan of Subdivision/Condo:
- $2,000 – up to 20 Lots/Blocks/Units
- $4,000 – 21 to 50 Lots/Blocks/Units
- $6,000 – More than 50 Lots/Blocks/Units
Subdivision and Condo Approvals
This application form must be used if the County of Essex is the approval authority and the plan calls for four or more new units or a service extension.
The County only approves plans that comply with the Official Plan and local Official Plans. The development must have:
- Public Utilities
- Power
- Street Lighting
- Water Supply
- Sewage Treatment
- Storm Drainage
Condominium Conversions
The County of Essex will only consider condominium conversions if the rental housing supply is not reduced.
Further Information and Guidelines:
- County of Essex Official Plan
- Essex County Agricultural Lot Size Study
- Planning Act
- Citizens' Guide to the Planning Act
- Provincial Policy Statement
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