The Planning Act is provincial legislation that sets out the framework for land use planning in Muskoka. Through this Act and the Provincial Policy Statement, the Province requires that a number of interests must be identified and protected in all municipal official plans. The Act also requires that the District Municipality of Muskoka prepare and maintain an official plan.
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| District Interests in Planning |
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What is an Official Plan?
An Official Plan is a policy document that guides the short-term and long-term development in your community. An Official Plan sets out a vision and goals and ensures that new development and growth considers a broad range of policies to protect the natural environment, align growth and development with municipal infrastructure, and promote complete, safe, accessible and inclusive communities.
The Muskoka Official Plan (MOP) covers:
- Environmental protection
- Water quality
- Resource Management
- Housing
- Growth and settlement patterns
- Community vision and objectives
- Economic development
- Tourism and resorts
- Transportation
- Services and utilities
- Implementation
Where Can I Find the Muskoka Official Plan?
The June 28, 2019 office consolidation of the Muskoka Official Plan is available online at the following link: Muskoka Official Plan (Please note the MOP is large document and may take a few moments to download)
The MOP can also be obtained from the Community and Planning Services department.
For a cost of $46.81 excluding HST, $52.90 including HST you can purchase the Muskoka Official Plan and it will include an 8.5x11” set of schedules and appendices. Larger schedules and appendices are available upon request for an additional charge.
Adopted Official Plan Amendments Not Yet Consolidated
- Official Plan Amendment 48 Notice of Adoption
- By-law to Adopt Official Plan Amendment 48
- Schedules and Appendices updated by Official Plan Amendment 48 - Please note not all schedules were impacted by this amendment
Active Amendments to the Muskoka Official Plan
From time to time, it may be necessary to amend an official plan to permit a site specific development or to add new, or change existing policy. Current amendments to the Muskoka Official Plan include:
- OPA 50 (2020 Lake System Health Update)
- OPA 51 (McColl)
Amendments can also be requested by members of the public. Contact the District Planning and Economic Department for more information regarding this type of applications.
Area Municipal Official Plans
Muskoka's six Area Municipalities each have an official plan which recognizes the unique physical characteristics of that community and implements the policies of the Muskoka Official Plan.
The District is the approval authority for Area Municipal Official Plans and approval of amendments to those plans.