A Zoning Certificate of Occupancy is a certificate that approves a change in use of land, building or structure in accordance with the town's zoning by-law. You are not allowed to change the use of any land, building or structure until you have applied for and received an approved zoning certificate.
The certificate is required when there is a proposed change in the use of land, building or structure from what was previously approved. For example, when the use of a building unit is a retail store and the proposed change is to a restaurant.
All non-residential uses as well as the following residential uses require the certificate:
The certificate does not ensure compliance with all applicable zoning regulations, such as minimum yard or setback requirements, and floor area and height restrictions. Additional permits and approvals may be required dependent upon your project plans such as a building permit, a minor variance or other required approvals from Halton Region, Halton Conservation Authority or Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council (OMVIC).
Please note, a Zoning Certificate of Occupancy is not an occupancy permit pursuant to Section 11 of the Building Code Act and does not give permission to construct or occupy a building or structure.
Use the town’s zoning map to view the applicable zoning designation.
Residential use examples that may require a zoning certificate include:
All non-residential uses require a zoning certificate including:
If your construction project is not able to comply with the regulations of the zoning by-law, there is an option to submit a minor variance application to the Committee of Adjustment.
A minor variance is a small variation from the requirements of the zoning by-law. For more information, visit the Committee of Adjustment, Minor Variance and Land Division page. It is also recommended that you consult with the Planning department at 905-845-6601, ext. 3955 before submitting an application.
Each submission for a zoning certificate requires:
Drawings are assessed to confirm parking requirements and applicable zone regulations (i.e. maximum size for a proposed use such as an accessory dwelling or seasonal garden centre).
Label each drawing sheet with the property address, legal description and project name. Save drawings as scalable and clearly dimensioned so that staff can calculate floor area.
The cost for a Zoning Certificate of Occupancy is $156. Fees can now be paid by credit card at time of online application submission.
You can now submit your zoning certificate application online. Use Chrome or Safari for the best experience.
If it is your first time using the town’s online services, you will need to create a user name and password. Select sign in and then the option to sign up. If you already have an account, you can use the same username and password.
Provide information about your application and upload your drawings and documents.
Please follow the submission standards outlined in Step 2 of 3 to help us process your application quickly.
Please contact a zoning officer at 905-845-6601, ext. 3955 or zoningrequests@oakville.ca.