The Planning Department

 

The Planning Department is responsible for ensuring that all new development is in accordance with the Official Plan for the Bonfield Planning Area. The Planning Department also plays a diverse role in leading community planning conversations for the municipality. Bonfield’s Official Plan can be viewed here: Bonfield Official Plan - April 2013 Consolidation

The Planning department is also responsible for the administration of the Township’s Comprehensive Zoning By-Law. The Zoning By-Law sets out various regulations with respect to buildings and permitted land uses.  If you are planning to erect a new building or adding onto and existing structure, contact the Planning department for assistance to ensure that the proposed construction, use and location is in compliance with Bonfield’s current Zoning By-Law. Bonfield Zoning By-Law - May 7, 2013 w adoption By-Law. The regulations set out in the zoning by-law can also assist anyone who is proposing to purchase property in the Township of Bonfield. The zoning by-law sets out the permitted uses and zoning of the property you are proposing to purchase.

The Manager of Planning and Development is responsible for all statutory enforcement functions under the Planning Act and oversees the activities of the Planning and Development Department. The Manager of Planning & Development reports to the Chief Administrative Officer.

All inquiries related to the Ontario Building Code or Ontario Building Code Act should be directed to the Building Department.

 

How to connect with Bonfield’s Planning Office

The Township of Bonfield is committed to providing exceptional service. If you are planning a development project, property improvement, or have questions about zoning or land use, scheduling an appointment with the Planning Office is your first step. Here’s what you need to know:

The Planning Office helps ensure that your project aligns with local regulations, zoning bylaws, and the Official Plan. By meeting with our team, you will:

  • Gain clarity on the development potential of your property.
  • Understand any planning constraints or requirements.
  • Avoid potential issues that could delay your project.
  1. Fill Out the Planning & Development Inquiry Form
    Download the form from our website or pick up a copy at the municipal office.
  2. Submit the Form
    Email the completed form to planning@bonfieldtownship.com, or deliver it in person to the Township Office.
  3. Receive Confirmation
    Once we review your form, we will contact you to confirm an appointment time or discuss next steps.

 

Planning & Development - Schedule and Timeframes 2025 

As we plan ahead for 2025, the Planning & Development Department has produced a schedule which summarizes the steps and timeframes involved as we continue to process new planning applications received by the Township. 
The attached schedule summarizes the actions required and the deadlines in place to ensure applications are processed as efficiently as possible. 
 
2025 Planning Timeframes
 
Only once an application is deemed 'complete for planning purposes' does the process begin; so applicants are encouraged to contact the Township's Planning Administrator early in the process and gain any necessary feedback - prior to making an application.    
 
Please note: 
The proposed deadlines and timeframes shown are provided for information purposes only and are potentially subject to change. 
Where no applications, or other planning-related matters, require immediate consideration - a meeting could be postponed, and/or cancelled at any time.            
 
If unclear on the timeframes presented, please reach out to the Planning Administrator at: planning@bonfieldtownship.com
 

Planning Advisory Committee (PAC)

PAC is a 5-member Committee of Council that is composed of 2 appointed members of Council and 3 residents of the community. The Committee is responsible for making recommendations to Council on all Land Severance’s as well as commenting on all private Official Plan and Zoning By-Law Amendments applications.

PAC is also responsible for any in-house review of and or amendments to the Official Plan or Implementing Zoning By-Law for the Bonfield Planning Area including the Official Plan mandatory 5-year review.

Current Applications for Consent

 

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment for minor variances is the Council of the Corporation of the Township of Bonfield who are appointed by By-Law in accordance with the Planning act. What is a Minor Variance? A Minor Variance provides relief from specific requirements set out in the Zoning By-Law to suit special circumstances however it does not change the existing Zoning By-Law.

 

Shoreline Licence

A shoreline licence must be applied for if you wish to erect or alter any building or structure, to cut or plant any trees, to park or leave standing any vehicle, store any boats, trailers fish huts or any type of materials on the original 66-foot Lakeshore Road Allowance, in accordance with By-Law 96-23

 

Secondary Dwelling Units

The Township of Bonfield has outlined a vision to promote compact development and mixeduses in support of complete communities and to encourage infilling and intensification in built up areas within the two settlement areas of Bonfield and Rutherglen through Official Plan and Comprehensive Zoning Bylaw. Learn more: Secondary Dwelling Units in Bonfield

 

To access any Planning Department Applications please visit Applications & Forms. For further information on any Planning matters contact:

The Planning Department
Phone: 705-776-2641
Fax: 705-776-1154
Email: planning@bonfieldtownship.com