Tillsonburg updating zoning bylaw

As part of the process to update its comprehensive zoning bylaw, the town held an open house in the Lion’s Den recently. On the left, Marc Davidson, senior development planner for Tillsonburg with Oxford County, and Eric Gilbert, manager of development and planning with Oxford County, outlined the proposed changes. (Jeff Helsdon Photo).

Jeff Helsdon, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Tillsonburg is currently in the process of updating it comprehensive zoning bylaw, and that could be good news for residents.

The main goals of the update is to review the zoning bylaws and make it simpler to reflect local trends, and also reflect any changes in the Provincial Policy Statement. The changes won’t have an impact on the majority of residents, but those who apply for a building permit or a minor variance may see a difference.

“We’re trying to streamline it,” said Eric Gilbert, manager of development planning for Oxford County.

He provided an example, saying if eight people asked for the same thing and council granted all eight, then changes could be made to reflect that. For instance, one possible change is covered decks will be able to be built larger without the need for a minor variance. Another change will make it easier to meet parking requirements for off-street parking.

There have been 14 changes to the Provincial Policy Statement, the document that sets the rules for land use planning in the province, in the last 14 years. The zoning update needs to reflect the latest of these.

While some municipalities are dealing with mandated targets for growth set by the province, that is not the case in Tillsonburg. Tillsonburg is growing fast enough that no targets will be needed.

As part of the process, a public consultation was held in the Lion’s Den on Oct. 29. This is one step in the process to bring in the new zoning bylaw. There will be input from stakeholders, an online survey and another public meeting which will occur at the same time as council is updated on the results of the input sessions. The goal is to have it passed in early 2025.

More information is available on the town’s web page at Tillsonburg.ca