A site plan shows both design and technical aspects of development proposals and ensures that the project contributes to an attractive streetscape, blends with the character of the neighbourhood, or local area, and meets Town and Region (if applicable) requirements.
Site Plan approvals are regulated by Section 41 of the Ontario Planning Act. The entire Town of Newmarket is designated, by Council, as a "Site Plan Control Area". Development of any kind may not be undertaken in the Town of Newmarket until the Town has reviewed and approved the plans.
The site plan process is guided by the Site Plan Approval Process Manual. This document guides staff and applicants through the review of site plan approval applications. The manual explains the review process and types of applications, explains requirements for types of studies and plans, sets out minimum expected development standards, and provides guidance for applicants to have clear expectations of the development review process.
Applicants for site plan approval are encouraged to review the manual in detail and address any questions with Planning Services at a preliminary meeting or prior to making an application in order to reduce the need for revisions and resubmissions.
Site Plan Approvals
As the Town both grows and redevelops, there is a need to ensure good urban design which provides for the needs of all citizens, minimizes potential conflicting land uses, integrates the built environment with the natural environment, and ensures new development fits in with its surrounding community.
Site Plan Approval is an essential component of the development review process. It is intended to:
- Implement the objectives of the Official Plan;
- Ensure conformity to the Zoning By-law and other appropriate by-laws and regulations;
- Ensure sufficient municipal services and on-site facilities; and
- Eliminate or reduce negative impacts on adjacent land uses.
Newmarket's site plan approval process aims to be efficient, clear and transparent. It has been created with clear gateway milestones marking achievements in the process. This give us all a clear understanding of where we are in the process and how much is left to achieve. View the milestones of Newmarket's site plan process or watch the video below explaining our process.
