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Zoning
The City of St. Catharines is currently covered by 11 different zoning by-laws, each with its own wide range of zoning requirements. This section contains general details with respect to zoning.
Comprehensive Zoning By-law
Certain current general zoning area restrictions were established between 1959 and 1988. To simplify the current system, the City has begun the process of updating the zoning by-laws and consolidating them into one new by-law.
Work is proceeding on the review of a number of technical issues. It is anticipated that preliminary meetings to review a draft by-law will be held in 2013. After the preliminary meetings, staff will review the comments and prepare a revised draft by-law that will formally be presented to City Council. Before the by-law can be passed, a public meeting before Council is required. That meeting will be advertised on this website and in the local media.
Download the Composite Zoning Map for St. Catharines.
Note: The composite zoning map has been uploaded for convenience purpose only and must be read in conjunction with the original zoning by-law and any amendments thereto.
Zoning Inquiries
Zoning by-laws are approved by City Council to regulate the use of land and the character, location and use of buildings and structures therein. Each parcel within the City will have a zoning designation and corresponding regulations.
Things that are regulated by zoning by-laws include: location of buildings, decks, fences, air conditioners, accessory buildings, building height, lot sizes, coverage and parking requirements.
When sufficient information has been provided, a Zoning Technician from the Planning and Development Services Department will advise:
- How land may be used
- Where buildings and other structures can be located or "setback" from the property line
- The types of building structures that are permitted and how they are used
- Written confirmation regarding the zoning of a property is subject to a fee.
