Can I build on my land?

A: Canada’s municipalities have strict limitations on what you can build on your property. Zoning by-laws are intended to regulate land usage for the benefit of the entire community. Every piece of land in the Greater Toronto Area is subject to zoning regulations that reflect how the property fits into the municipality's official plan.

These regulations specify, among other things, the distance that buildings are located from the property boundaries (setbacks), building height, maximum floor space, lot coverage, required parking and an array of other requirements enforceable by law. Applying for a building permit requires a site plan or grading plan. Zoning deficiencies shown on the plans can be appealed with an application to the Committee of Adjustment for permission to get a minor variance.

Additional zoning requirements encompass tree and ravine protection, floodplain and conservation zoning, airport height restrictions, greenbelt and hazard land restrictions, and more. Knowing the exact location of your property boundaries is important in order to comply with zoning and other municipal regulations.