Project Introduction and Purpose
The Town of Fort Erie is developing a Community Planning Permit System (CPPS) for the key areas in the Town where growth will be focused over the next 25 years: our Strategic Growth Areas (see map below). We are also developing Urban Design Guidelines that will apply Town-wide, to support the design of comfortable, inviting, and appealing public spaces and provide consistent guidance for private development.
This initiative serves as a critical step in implementing the Town’s Official Plan that was adopted in August 2025, translating high-level policy into clear, easy-to-implement regulations and guidance. Learn more about the Official Plan here.
These tools will help us to proactively manage growth, welcome new neighbours, and plan for services and infrastructure, while providing the framework necessary to preserve the distinct identity and heritage of communities in Fort Erie.
Streamlining the development process
The Community Planning Permit System (CPPS) is a transformative tool available to Ontario municipalities that streamlines development approvals by combining Zoning By-law Amendments, Minor Variances, and Site Plan applications into a single approval process. This system provides several benefits, including increased transparency with the public, reduced planning approval timelines, and accelerated delivery of housing options to meet community needs. In Fort Erie, this system will specifically target the Town’s seven Strategic Growth Areas (SGAs):
- Crystal Beach SGA
- Ridgeway SGA
- Garrison-Sunset SGA
- Garrison West SGA
- Garrison East SGA
- Niagara Boulevard SGA
- Bridgeburg SGA
To implement the CPPS, we will be developing a Community Planning Permit By-law that will apply in place of the Zoning By-law in the SGAs.
The Urban Design Guidelines will complement the CPPS and apply across the entire municipality to guide development in all areas to respect Fort Erie's character and sense of place.
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We need everyone’s input to create a Community Planning Permit By-law and Urban Design Guidelines that will guide development for years to come.
Subscribe to this page for updates on open houses, public meetings, and new project materials. You can also reach out to our project team anytime with questions or feedback – check out the contact information under the ‘Who’s Listening’ section to the right.
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