Question 1

What are Edmonton's District Plans?

Accepted Answer

Edmonton's District Planning project divides the city into 15 distinct districts, each with a unique plan outlining future growth and development. These plans aim to create '15-minute communities' where residents can access daily necessities like shops, employment, recreation, and essential services within a 15-minute walk, bike ride, or transit trip from their homes. The project involves two key components: the District Policy, which provides overarching citywide objectives for all districts, and individual District Plans tailored to each district's specific context.

Question 2

How will the District Plans change my neighborhood?

Accepted Answer

While every area will experience some level of growth, the most significant changes are expected within designated 'nodes' and 'corridors.' These areas are envisioned as densely populated, mixed-use hubs well-connected to various transportation options. You can anticipate seeing increased density, enhanced amenities, and improved transportation infrastructure. Development will occur gradually over time, guided by zoning regulations and the rezoning process.

Question 3

What is the '15-Minute City' concept?

Accepted Answer

The '15-minute city' is a planning concept aiming to improve residents' quality of life by ensuring easy access to daily needs within a 15-minute radius of their homes. This reduces reliance on cars, promotes active transportation, and fosters vibrant, self-sufficient communities.

Question 4

Are the District Plans an attempt to restrict my movement?

Accepted Answer

No. The District Plans and the 15-minute city concept are not about restricting movement or confining residents to their neighborhoods. They are about providing better access to amenities and services closer to home, offering greater convenience and choice in how you live, work, and play within your community.

Question 5

What happens to existing neighborhood plans?

Accepted Answer

To streamline the planning system, the District Plans will replace over 50 existing neighborhood plans. The City conducted an extensive review to determine which plans are outdated or conflict with the City Plan's goals. While some plans will be retired entirely, others will be integrated into the new District Plans.

Question 6

How are the District Plans connected to the Zoning Bylaw?

Accepted Answer

The District Plans set the long-term policy direction for development, while the Zoning Bylaw dictates the specific regulations for what can be built on a site today. When a rezoning application is submitted, the Development Planner assesses its alignment with the relevant District Plan to ensure it contributes to the community's vision.

Question 7

How can I stay informed and provide input?

Accepted Answer

You can stay up-to-date on the District Planning project by visiting the City of Edmonton's website, signing up for the City Building Newsletter, attending public engagement events, or contacting your City Councillor.

Question 8

When will the District Plans be implemented?

Accepted Answer

The District Plans were presented at a public hearing at the end of May 2024. Following review by the Edmonton Metropolitan Region Board, the City Council will vote on their final adoption, anticipated in Fall 2024.

Question 9

What is the purpose of Edmonton's new Zoning Bylaw?

Accepted Answer

Edmonton's new Zoning Bylaw (Bylaw 20001) replaces a nearly 60-year-old bylaw to better reflect the city's current size and future growth. Its purpose is to guide development in an orderly way, minimize conflicts between different activities, and contribute to the safety, public health, welfare, and environmental sustainability of Edmonton.

Question 10

How do I find out what zone my property is in?

Accepted Answer

You can find your property's zoning information using the City of Edmonton's online zoning map. Enter your address to view the interactive map and locate your property. The zoning label will indicate the zone and any applicable modifiers.

Question 11

What types of housing are allowed in the different residential zones?

Accepted Answer

The new bylaw simplifies residential development by using a single 'Residential Use' category across all zones. This allows for diverse housing types, such as detached homes, townhouses, apartments, secondary suites, and backyard housing, to be built in any residential zone.

Question 12

Are commercial uses allowed in residential zones?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the new bylaw allows for limited commercial and community uses in residential zones to provide amenities and services within walking distance for residents. The permitted uses and their location within a residential zone are subject to specific regulations.

Question 13

What is the difference between the RS and RSF Zones?

Accepted Answer

Both the RS (Small Scale Residential) and RSF (Small Scale Flex Residential) zones allow for a variety of housing types up to three stories high. The RS Zone applies to Edmonton's 'redeveloping area,' while the RSF Zone applies to the 'developing area' with additional flexibility.

Question 14

What are Zone Modifiers, and how do they work?

Accepted Answer

Zone Modifiers are a new tool in Bylaw 20001 that allow for different scales of development within the same zone. There are three types: Height Modifier, Floor Area Ratio Modifier, and Commercial Frontage Modifier. Modifiers are indicated in the zoning label and require a rezoning process to change.

Question 15

How does the new Zoning Bylaw address climate change?

Accepted Answer

Bylaw 20001 supports climate action by encouraging compact development, preserving natural areas, and promoting landscaping and tree planting through specific requirements for new developments.

Question 16

Where can I find more information about the Zoning Bylaw?

Accepted Answer

Visit the City of Edmonton's Zoning Bylaw webpage for detailed information, educational resources, and answers to frequently asked questions about Bylaw 20001.

2023 Edmonton Zone Map - Find Homes for Sale on Edmonton MLS® System

Central Edmonton

Zone 05

Zone 08

Zone 06

Zone 09

Zone 23

Zone 35

Downtown

Zone 12

Zone 13

University Whyte Ave Area

Zone 15

West Central

Zone 10

Zone 11

Zone 22

Terwillegar Area

Zone 14

South West Century Park Area

Zone 16

South Central

Zone 17

Zone 18

Zone 19

West End

Zone 20

Millwoods

Zone 29

The Meadows

Zone 30

Zone 50

Zone 51

South East

Zone 53

Zone 54

Windermere, Woodbend Estates, Blackburne, MacEwan, and Richford

Zone 55

Zone 56

Zone 57

West Edmonton - The Grange and Lewis Farms

Zone 58

North Central

Zone 01

Zone 02

Zone 03

The Palisades, Albany and Lake District

Zone 27

Zone 28

Northwest & Big Lake District

Zone 04

Zone 07

Zone 21

Zone 59

Edmonton's New Zoning Bylaw (Charter Bylaw 20001)

Introduction

Key Themes

Modernization & Alignment with The City Plan

Promoting Housing Diversity & Affordability

Supporting Complete & Compact Communities

Emphasis on Equity and Inclusion

Environmental Sustainability

Important Ideas & Facts

Conclusion

Location

Contact