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Building and Planning

The Planning Services Division and Building Services Division, with help from other divisions and agencies, oversee private development in Thunder Bay. Each division offers their own expertise and plays a different role in the development process. 

Building and Planning
The Planning Services Division and Building Services Division, with help from other divisions and agencies, oversee private development in Thunder Bay. Each division offers their own expertise and plays a different role in the development process. 
 
You have a business idea and are looking for land to buy or you own land and want to develop it. Either way, your first stop should be the City of Thunder Bay. City staff have the information you need to make informed decisions about buying land and developing it.
 
The Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission (CEDC) is also responsible for business development in Thunder Bay. They can assist you with site selection and identify funding that may be available for your project. Find more information on their website.
 
Building
 
If you are planning any type of construction project, whether it is building a new home or renovating an existing building, you will need a building or plumbing permit. Building demolitions require demolition permits.
 
You can apply for a building permit at the Development Services Office on the second floor of the Victoriaville Civic Centre. All blank forms are available at the Development Services Office or for download here. You may also apply for small projects, such as decks, garages and pool fences online.
 
Learn more about building or renovating in and around your home, including demolition, driveways, decks, sheds and more.
 
  • The Building Code Act
  • Applicable law 
 
 
Planning
 
The Planning Services Division develops and maintains the Official Plan and Zoning By-law. The Official Plan and Zoning By-law provide the framework for land use planning in Thunder Bay. The Official Plan describes what kind of community we want to become in the future. It sets goals, objectives, and policies which guide our land use planning decisions. The Zoning By-law aims to implement these goals and objectives on a day-to-day basis. Our goal as planners is a safe, happy, healthy, efficient, and beautiful city.
 
Planning Services also reviews development proposals and processes various planning applications under the Planning Act. These include:
 
  • Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments
  • Consent to Sever, Minor Variances, and Permission
  • Plan of Subdivision and Plan of Condominium
  • Site Plan Approval
 
Planning Services can help you determine if your proposal requires a planning application and what type is appropriate.  
 
The Planning Act
Provincial Policy Statement
Growth Plan for Northern Ontario
The Official Plan
Zoning By-law
Urban design guidelines
Planning application forms and fees
Active development proposals and planning notices
Appeal process and support
Community Improvement Plans
 
If you require a PDF in an accessible format, contact our Municipal Accessibility Specialist.
 
Contact Us
 
Building Services
Victoriaville Civic Centre
111 Syndicate Ave S.
Thunder Bay, ON, P7E 6S4
807-625-2574
 
Planning Services
Victoriaville Civic Centre
111 Syndicate Ave S.
Thunder Bay, ON, P7E 6S4
807-625-2216