What is a Master Plan?

A master plan facilitates land development by establishing the vision and framework for an area. A master plan contains two key components:

A land use concept map – This map illustrates the approximate location and type of development, parks, open spaces, and the major infrastructure, such as road and trails, water, and sewer lines; and

A report – This report provides guidance on land use (land use compatibility and environmental impacts), density, land remediation, gravel hauling, on and off-site infrastructure, and financial feasibility.

A master plan will:

• Ensure the new area will be compatible with existing nearby areas;
• Ensure the area develops in a logical, functional, and cost-effective manner;
• Identify and protect key environmental features;
• Provide direction on what types of land uses will occur, and where;
• Integrate with existing and/or identify new major future roads;
• Provide recommendations on all other relevant aspects of future development; and
• Guide future developer-led planning work, including detailed engineering studies, YESAB applications, and Zoning By-law amendment applications.

Since a master plan is a high-level guiding document, it does not include details such as zoning, lot lines, or the location of minor roads. These details, along with more specific studies and engineering, will be completed by individual landowners before developing their land.