Residents interested in renovating, developing, or redeveloping their properties are encouraged to contact the Planning Department to confirm if a development application is required. The Town of Carleton Place utilizes a Development Permit By-law in place of a traditional Zoning By-law, Site Plan By-law, and Minor Variance process.

Similar to a Zoning By-law, the Development Permit By-law provides permitted uses and setbacks for properties in different “designated areas” in Town. The By-law also includes prescriptive Design Guidelines for each area of Town to ensure cohesive community growth.

The Development Permit Review Process

The application process generally follows these stages:

• Stage 1: Pre-Consultation – Mandatory meeting with Planning staff to determine the application "Class" and required studies.
• Stage 2: Submission – Filing of the application, fees, and technical documents.
• Stage 3: Review & Circulation – Internal and external review. Class 2 and 3 applications involve public notification and a 15-day comment period.
• Stage 4: Decision – Approval (with or without conditions) or refusal by the Director or Town Council.
• Stage 5: Agreement & Building Permit – Finalizing any required Development Agreements before moving to the building permit stage.

Resources and Reference Documents

• Development Permit Review Process (PDF Guide)
• Schedule A: Designation Map
• Development Permit By-law 15-2015

Please complete the Development Permit Inquiry below. If you have already confirmed with the Planning Department that an application is necessary, please complete the Development Permit Pre-Consultation below.