What is Zoning?
Zoning is like a guide that says what can be built on a property.
What is Rezoning?
Rezoning is when someone wants to change the guide to allow new things to be built on a property. Sometimes, we need to adjust the plan if the new rule doesn't match the old one.
How Can Rezoning Impact Ritchie?
Changing the guide can affect what's allowed on a property. This might raise concerns in the community. It could also change parking or how many buildings are on your street.
How to Stay Updated?
Online Map: Check the City's website for rezoning updates.
Speak Up and Learn More: You can find contact info for City staff on the online map.
Join Meetings: Go to public meetings and share your thoughts on rezoning. If you want to talk at a meeting, you can sign up online or call the City Clerk's office at 780-496-8178.
For more info on the meeting process, look at the Quick Guide: Land Use Statutory Public Hearing or the Public Hearing Playbook.
What is Ritchie Community League's Role in Rezoning?
In a nutshell, the League's involvement in zoning decisions is determined by how it affects our neighborhood. This is laid out and guided by the Ritchie Community League Civic Engagement Guidelines
Here's how we approach it:
Neighbourhood-wide Issues:
Examples: Changes in speed limits, school shutdowns, crime prevention plans, and housing regulations
League's Role: Spread the word, gather feedback through meetings or surveys, and potentially represent the community's viewpoint to the city council
Significant Neighbourhood Portion:
Examples: Changes to shopping centers or the construction of tall buildings or large complexes
League's Role: Connect with those impacted, discuss in board meetings, and potentially voice concerns to the city council
Localized Matters:
Examples: Building a new house or garage, or rezoning that will adjust things in one specific location
League's Role: Provide advice, but may not take a definitive stance. If the issue has broader community implications, the League may follow Guidelines 1 or 2
City of Edmonton Zoning Updates and Changes
The City of Edmonton is has recently undergone a Zoning Bylaw Renewal. The new zoning bylaw was passed by City Council in October 2023 and will come into effect on January 1, 2024. For more information visit the City of Edmonton website for details.
The City of Edmonton is also undertaking a District Planning project. This will introduce a new planning tool called districts. Districts are collections of diverse neighbourhoods where residents can meet most of their daily needs within a 15-minute walk, roll or transit trip from their homes.
The Ritchie community league will next engage with EFLC on the drafted Scona District Plan. You can read more about the drafted plans here.