Oakville aligns Official Plan with Provincial legislation

Council adopts OPA 73 to reflect Ontario’s updated land use framework

At last night’s meeting, Council adopted Official Plan Amendment 73 (OPA 73), which was brought forward through the Town’s scoped Provincial Consistency Exercise. This amendment updates Oakville’s planning framework to reflect recent changes in Provincial legislation and the new Provincial Planning Statement, 2024.

OPA 73 builds on the Town’s on-going Official Plan Review, which began in 2015 and has included 15 major studies and 18 Council-adopted amendments. It addresses key updates to Ontario’s land use planning system, including:

• Changes to the Planning Act (Bill 23 and Bill 185), such as revised parkland dedication rules, exemptions for post-secondary institutions, and updated notice and pre-consultation requirements.
• Repeal of the Growth Plan, and integration of the new Provincial Planning Statement (2024).
• Updates related to the Conservation Authorities Act, Parkway Belt West Plan, and the role of Halton Region.

Oakville’s planning framework is shaped by three Official Plans: the Livable Oakville Plan, the North Oakville East Secondary Plan, and the Halton Region Official Plan. This layered structure reflects historical planning responsibilities and geographic distinctions. As part of future work, the Town will consolidate these plans into a single, unified document, starting in 2026.

Next steps

OPA 73 will be submitted to the Province for exemption from Ministerial approval. The amendment will be considered approved as of Council’s adoption date, pending any appeals.

Quote

“Council’s adoption of OPA 73 ensures consistency with provincial plans and legislation. The amendment reinforces Oakville’s urban structure, guiding growth that protects our natural areas and cultural heritage, and maintains the character of existing neighbourhoods.”
– Mayor Rob Burton