Rezoning Public Hearing Process - Barrie Bylaws

Land Use and Zoning Ontario 3 Minutes Read · published May 24, 2026 Flag of Ontario

Barrie, Ontario residents and applicants seeking a zoning by-law amendment must follow the city planning process to request a rezoning public hearing. The application begins with the City of Barrie planning department and requires submission of the formal zoning amendment application and supporting materials; see the City of Barrie zoning by-law amendment guidance for required documentation[1]. Public notice, a city planning report, and a council public meeting are typical parts of the process. This page explains steps to request the hearing, who enforces rules, expected timelines, appeals, typical violations, and how to find and submit the official application.

Overview of the Rezoning Public Hearing Request

A rezoning request (zoning by-law amendment) is a formal development application asking Council to change land-use permissions for a parcel or area. The City reviews completeness, circulation to internal departments and external agencies, and public notification. Council holds a public meeting where staff present a report and members of the public and the applicant may speak. After the meeting Council may defer, approve, deny, or approve with conditions.

Start with the pre-consultation to avoid delays.

Typical Timeline and Deadlines

  • Pre-consultation meeting recommended before formal submission.
  • Initial completeness review typically takes several weeks; exact timing is case-specific.
  • Public notice periods are set by the Planning Act and city procedures; dates are posted with the application file.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of zoning and development approvals in Barrie is carried out by the Planning Division together with the By-law Enforcement section when compliance issues arise. Specific monetary fines for zoning contraventions are not listed on the cited application pages; for exact fines see By-law Enforcement or applicable by-law texts (not specified on the cited page). Enforcement options include orders to discontinue activity, orders to comply, fines, and court prosecution where applicable. Appeals of enforcement orders and related timelines follow statutory processes; time limits for appeals are case-specific and should be confirmed with the City and the Ontario Land Tribunal where applicable.

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offences procedures are outlined in enforcement policies or the controlling by-law; specific ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: compliance orders, stop-work orders, and court action may be used.
  • Enforcers: Planning Division and By-law Enforcement; use the City contact pages in Help and Support / Resources below to report issues.

Applications & Forms

The official form is the Zoning By-law Amendment application available from the City of Barrie development applications pages; fees, required studies, and submission instructions are listed on the City of Barrie development applications and fees page[2]. If a specific municipal fee or a form number is required, it is shown on the City application pages; where not published, the fee is not specified on the cited page. Applications are submitted to the Planning Division as described on the City website.

Common Violations

  • Unauthorised land use prior to amendment approval.
  • Construction or site alteration without approved permits or conditions.
  • Failure to provide required studies or inaccurate application materials.
Non-compliance can lead to orders and possible prosecution.

How-To

  1. Pre-consult with City planning staff to identify required studies and expectations.
  2. Prepare and submit the Zoning By-law Amendment application with supporting materials and fees as specified on the City applications page.[2]
  3. Once accepted, the City issues public notice and schedules a council public meeting for the rezoning.
  4. Attend the public meeting to present the application and respond to public input; Council issues a decision or defers for more information.
  5. If dissatisfied with Council's decision, consider appeal routes and timelines with the Ontario Land Tribunal; confirm deadlines with City staff.

FAQ

How long does a rezoning public hearing take?
Timing varies by complexity; expect weeks to months from submission to the public meeting depending on completeness and required studies.
Can the public speak at the hearing?
Yes. Public notice is provided and members of the public may attend and speak at the council meeting.
Where do I get the application form and fees?
The Zoning By-law Amendment form and fee schedule are on the City of Barrie development applications and fees page.[2]

Key Takeaways

  • Begin with pre-consultation to clarify requirements.
  • Use the official City application form and include all required studies.
  • Public meetings are scheduled by Council after staff review and notice.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Barrie Zoning By-law Amendment guidance
  2. [2] City of Barrie Development Applications and Fees

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