County invites public input as planning overhaul moves forward

Casandra Turnbull

Managing Editor

The County of Brant is taking the next step in overhauling its planning framework and is inviting residents to weigh in at a series of upcoming open houses.

The county is proposing to replace its current zoning system with a new Community Planning Permit System (CPPS), a tool designed to streamline development approvals and modernize how growth is managed across Brant.

As previously reported, council endorsed moving forward with drafting the new system after hearing it could significantly reduce approval timelines by consolidating zoning bylaw amendments, site-plan approvals and minor variances into a single permit process.

Now, staff are seeking feedback on the draft Community Planning Permit (CPP) bylaw and overall framework before it returns to council for consideration.

According to the county, the proposed CPPS is intended to make planning rules easier to understand, provide more predictability for property owners and builders, and support a faster and more responsive approvals process. It would also allow the municipality to secure community benefits, such as parks or heritage protections, as part of development approvals.

The county has released short videos comparing the current development approval process with the proposed CPPS model to help residents understand the differences. Residents can provide input in several ways. An online survey is available until Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Printed copies can be picked up at County of Brant customer service locations, and surveys can also be completed by phone by calling 519-442-7268 or 1-855-442-7268.

Four in-person open houses will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the following locations:

Monday, Feb. 23 at the Gaukel Memorial Community Centre, 7 Gaukel Dr., St. George

Wednesday, Feb. 25 at the Brant Sports Complex, Lafarge Hall, 944 Powerline Rd., Paris

Thursday, Feb. 26 at the TF Warren Group Cainsville Community Centre, 15 Ewart Ave., Cainsville

Monday, March 2 at the Burford Community Centre, 14 Potter Dr., Burford

Staff will be available at each session to answer questions and gather feedback.

Residents can also participate in an online Community Conversations Forum through EngageBrant, where discussions focus on development challenges, housing needs, public engagement and what makes a complete community. The forum remains open until March 3.

The CPPS would replace Brant’s current zoning bylaw, which was last comprehensively updated in 2016 and is rooted in pre-amalgamation standards. If adopted, the new system would introduce broader land-use “precincts” and establish clear, measurable development standards.

Following public consultation, staff are expected to bring a finalized CPPS and accompanying Official Plan amendment to council later this year. 

Residents seeking more information or wishing to subscribe for project updates can visit EngageBrant.ca/CPPS.