Description of Service / Summary
Toronto Building provides zoning information and guidance for properties in the Toronto and East York District through appointment-based services. General zoning questions can be answered by Customer Service, while detailed reviews are available through the Zoning Applicable Law Certificate (ZAP) program. Residents and developers can access zoning bylaws and maps online to determine permitted land uses, building requirements, and development standards.
Zoning Inquiries
- By Appointment Only: Zoning inquiries for properties in the Toronto and East York District are available via a new online appointment request process.
- General Advice: Customers may call Toronto Building Customer Service for general zoning questions.
- Detailed Advice: For comprehensive zoning guidance, apply for a Zoning Applicable Law Certificate (ZAP).
Zoning Bylaw Information
- City-wide Bylaw: Zoning Bylaw 569-2013, as amended, is enforceable and accessible through the interactive zoning map.
- Former Bylaws: Some properties remain governed by former municipal bylaws, which may have limited online information. Grey areas on maps indicate properties not governed by the new bylaw.
Definition of Zoning:
Zoning regulates the use of land and buildings, specifying permitted uses (e.g., residential, commercial, industrial) and controlling structure size, placement, and type.
Purpose of the Zoning Bylaw:
The bylaw implements Official Plan policies, regulating:
- Permitted land uses by area
- Lot size, frontage, and building setbacks
- Building height and form
- Parking and loading requirements
- Open space requirements
The Planning Act grants the City authority to enforce these controls.
Zoning Map
- A Zoning Map shows the zoning designation for a specific property.
- Maps help determine permitted uses, setbacks, and parking requirements.
Zoning Bylaw Amendments (Re-zoning)
- If a proposed property use or development does not comply with the bylaw, an amendment is required.
- Options include:
- Rezoning – major revisions such as land use changes or increased building height/density
- Minor Variance – small adjustments like setbacks or parking requirements
- Consider applying for a Zoning Applicable Law Certificate (ZAP) to identify non-compliant features.
- Projects requiring a zoning amendment may also require Site Plan Approval.
Viewing Former Municipality Zoning Bylaws & Maps
- Etobicoke & York: Legacy bylaws are not available at Customer Service; partial copies are also unavailable.
- Scarborough, Toronto & East York District: Zoning maps can be viewed during business hours; bylaws may be viewed with a zoning examiner.
- North York District: Bylaw books are not available at the Toronto Building office. Copies can be viewed at North York Central Library; zoning maps are available at the touch-down computer beside Toronto Building Customer Service.
