Land Designation Popup

Municipalities are encouraged to pass sign by-laws to ensure that the cultural heritage resources, attractive streetscapes and scenic resources of Minor Urban Centres are conserved.

Mineral Extraction

The Mineral Resource Extraction Area designation includes mineral aggregate operations licensed pursuant to the Aggregate Resources Act and areas where mineral aggregate resource extraction may be permitted, subject to the policies of this Plan.

1.9.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To designate Mineral Resource Extraction Areas where licensed mineral aggregate operations are permitted.

1. To minimize the impact of mineral aggregate operations on the Escarpment environment.

1. To encourage progressive rehabilitation of mineral aggregate operations.

1. To encourage rehabilitated mineral aggregate operations to be restored to a state that is of equal or greater ecological or agricultural value than the original characteristics of the site.

1. To ensure that, after a licence is surrendered, the land is re-designated to a land use designation that is compatible with the rehabilitation of the site, the designation criteria of adjacent lands, the surrounding Escarpment environment and existing land uses in the area.

1. To encourage, where possible, the integration of rehabilitated lands into the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System.

1.9.2 CRITERION FOR DESIGNATION

Licensed pits and quarries producing more than 20,000 tonnes annually.

1.9.3 PERMITTED USES

Subject to conformity with Part 2, Development Criteria, official plans and where applicable, zoning by-laws that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan, the following uses may be permitted:

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Existing uses.

1. Mineral aggregate operations licensed pursuant to the Aggregate Resources Act but not including associated facilities unless they are permitted as an accessory use.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Recreational uses.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Watershed management, and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. Accessory uses normally associated with the mineral aggregate operation, such as temporary offices serving the subject site, signage, crushing and washing facilities, or facilities for recycling and re- processing of mineral aggregate resources. Asphalt plants, concrete plants, brick manufacturing plants and other similar manufacturing uses shall not be permitted.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space Master/Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges and boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Policy expired.

1.9.4 LOT CREATION

1. Any new lot created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area shall require an amendment to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.9.4.1 and as provided for in Part 2.4.12 of this Plan, a new lot may be created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area by a NEPOSS agency or approved conservation organization specifically for the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System or for the establishment of a nature preserve, provided there is not more than one remnant lot.

1.9.5 AFTER USES

Following the surrender of the licence issued pursuant to the Aggregate Resources Act, an amendment to the Niagara Escarpment Plan is required. The amendment will change the land use designation of the lot from Mineral Resource Extraction Area to a land use designation that has designation criteria consistent with the rehabilitation completed on the property and will be processed in accordance with Part 1.2.1.

1. Development and growth, including the creation of new lots, shall not extend into the Escarpment Natural Areas.

1. The Escarpment Natural Area designation and its policies must be incorporated into the official plan/secondary plan or development proposal.

1. Development and growth should avoid Escarpment Protection Areas and be directed to Escarpment Rural Areas in a manner consistent with Escarpment Rural Area Objectives and Part 2, the Development Criteria of this Plan.

1. Development and growth should be limited to minimize land use conflicts (e.g., with agriculture) and all development should be of a design compatible with the scenic resources of the Escarpment. Where appropriate, provision for adequate setbacks, and maximum heights for buildings, structures and screening shall be required to minimize the visual impact of development, consistent with any applicable provincial guidance.

1. Development within Minor Urban Centres should encourage reduced energy consumption, improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions (consistent with provincial reduction targets to 2030 and 2050) and work towards the long-term goals of low carbon communities, net-zero communities and increased resilience to climate change, through maximizing opportunities for the use of green infrastructure and appropriate low impact development.

1. Development and growth should be minor only, relative to the size and capacity of the settlement to absorb new growth, so that the community character is maintained.

1. Development and growth should take place as a logical extension of existing development in the form of planned groups, rather than linear or scattered development. Expansion in depth, rather than extension along existing roads, is favoured.

1. Limited infilling may be permitted in the built-up portions of Minor Urban Centres that do not have an approved official plan and/or secondary plan.

1. Growth and development in Minor Urban Centres shall be compatible with and provide for:
  - - a) the protection of natural heritage features and functions;
  - - b) the protection of hydrologic features and functions;
  - - c) the protection of agricultural lands, including prime agricultural areas;
  - - d) the conservation of cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Metis communities;
  - - e) considerations for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improved resilience to the impacts of a changing climate;
  - - f) sustainable use of water resources for ecological and servicing needs; and First Nation and Métis communities;
  - - g) compliance with the targets, criteria and recommendations of applicable water, wastewater and stormwater master plans, approved watershed planning and/or subwatershed plan in land use planning.

1. Municipal sewage and water services will be the preferred form of servicing. Where municipal sewage services and municipal water services are not provided, the use of private communal sewage services and private communal water services may be permitted. Individual on-site sewage services and individual on-site water services may only be permitted where municipal or private communal services are not available.

1. Adequate public access to the Escarpment should be provided by such means as parking areas, walkways or pedestrian trails (e.g., the Bruce Trail).

1. Development and growth should be compatible with adjacent existing Mineral Resource Extraction Area designations and, where appropriate, incorporate methods of minimizing land use conflicts (e.g., staging, site design, berming).

Municipalities are encouraged to pass sign by-laws to ensure that the cultural heritage resources, attractive streetscapes and scenic resources of Minor Urban Centres are conserved.

Mineral Extraction

1.9.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To designate Mineral Resource Extraction Areas where licensed mineral aggregate operations are permitted.

1. To minimize the impact of mineral aggregate operations on the Escarpment environment.

1. To encourage progressive rehabilitation of mineral aggregate operations.

1. To encourage rehabilitated mineral aggregate operations to be restored to a state that is of equal or greater ecological or agricultural value than the original characteristics of the site.

1. To ensure that, after a licence is surrendered, the land is re-designated to a land use designation that is compatible with the rehabilitation of the site, the designation criteria of adjacent lands, the surrounding Escarpment environment and existing land uses in the area.

1. To encourage, where possible, the integration of rehabilitated lands into the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System.

1.9.2 CRITERION FOR DESIGNATION

Licensed pits and quarries producing more than 20,000 tonnes annually.

1.9.3 PERMITTED USES

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Existing uses.

1. Mineral aggregate operations licensed pursuant to the Aggregate Resources Act but not including associated facilities unless they are permitted as an accessory use.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Recreational uses.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Watershed management, and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. Accessory uses normally associated with the mineral aggregate operation, such as temporary offices serving the subject site, signage, crushing and washing facilities, or facilities for recycling and re- processing of mineral aggregate resources. Asphalt plants, concrete plants, brick manufacturing plants and other similar manufacturing uses shall not be permitted.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space Master/Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges and boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Policy expired.

1.9.4 LOT CREATION

1. Any new lot created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area shall require an amendment to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.9.4.1 and as provided for in Part 2.4.12 of this Plan, a new lot may be created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area by a NEPOSS agency or approved conservation organization specifically for the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System or for the establishment of a nature preserve, provided there is not more than one remnant lot.

1.9.5 AFTER USES

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there has been no more than one previous lot severed from one of the affected original township lot or original township half lot. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.5.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or
  - - d) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. New lots may be created for agricultural uses, provided both the severed and remnant lots are of sufficient size to remain useful for agricultural purposes, and such lots are not less than 16 hectares in a specialty crop area or 40 hectares in any other prime agricultural area. These new lots shall only be permitted in municipalities where the official plan has identified specialty crop areas and/or prime agriculture areas.

1. New lots may be created for agriculture-related uses, provided that any new lot is limited to the minimum size needed to accommodate the use. A lot created for an agriculture-related use shall not be used for residential purposes.

1. Provided no lots have been created in the past from the original township lot, or original township half lot, where the original township lot is 80 hectares or more, and where the proposed lot is not in conflict with the Agricultural Policies of the Provincial Policy Statement, one lot may be severed for a permitted use.

1. No new lots are permitted where one or more lots have been severed from the original township lot, or original township half lot, where the original township lot is 80 hectares or more.

1. The severance of a lot with a residence that has been rendered surplus to an agricultural operation as a result of a farm consolidation is permitted, subject to the policies found in Section 2.4 and Section 2.8 of this Plan that apply to such a severance and the associated APO lot created by this severance.

A lot created by a public body (e.g., for a road or park) or by an approved conservation organization for a nature preserve will not be considered a previous lot. A remnant lot(s) created as a result of a lot acquired by a public body or an approved conservation organization, which may be used as a building lot(s), shall be considered an existing lot of record if the pre-existing lot was an existing lot of record and shall be considered a previous lot for the purpose of determining entitlement to additional severances if the pre-existing lot was a previous lot.

Recreation

Designated Recreation Areas are areas of existing or potential recreational development associated with the Escarpment. Such areas may include both seasonal and permanent residences.

1.8.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To minimize negative impacts of recreational development on the Escarpment environment.

1. To provide areas where new recreation and associated development can be concentrated around established, identified or approved downhill ski centres.

1. To provide areas where new recreation and associated development can be concentrated around established, identified or approved lakeshore residential areas in Grey and Bruce Counties.

1. To recognize the importance of the four-season recreation resort areas in the Town of the Blue Mountains to the tourism sector of Ontario’s economy.

1. To provide for the development of new ski centres or other recreational areas.

1. To ensure that recreational development protects and maintains community character, hydrologic and natural heritage features and functions, and the scenic resources of the Escarpment.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1.8.2 CRITERION FOR DESIGNATION

Established, identified or approved recreation areas (e.g., ski centres, lakeshore residential areas, and resort development areas).

1.8.3 PERMITTED USES

Subject to Part 2, Development Criteria, the development objectives and Lot Creation policies in this section, and the requirements of applicable official plans and/or secondary plans and, where applicable, zoning by-laws that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan, the following uses may be permitted:

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Secondary dwelling units.

1. In ski centres, facilities such as ski runs, ski lifts, slide rides and toboggan runs that require the Escarpment slope.

1. Commercial development normally associated with a ski centre or a lakeshore residential area, such as marinas, lodges, retail stores and service establishments.

1. Golf courses.

1. Trail activities.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Billboards.

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot)

1. Accessory uses (e.g., garage, swimming pools, tennis courts, ponds or signs).

1. Infrastructure.

1.8.4 LOT CREATION

Subject to the Development Criteria in Part 2, the Development Objectives of this section and the requirements of applicable official plans, secondary plans and/or by-laws that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan, new lots may be created for permitted uses.

1.8.5 DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES

1. Development within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas.

1. Development within Recreation Areas should encourage reduced energy consumption, improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions (consistent with provincial reduction targets to 2030 and 2050) and working towards the long-term goals of lowcarbon communities, net-zero communities and increased resilience to climate change, through maximizing opportunities for the use of green infrastructure and appropriate low impact development.

1. New lots within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not be created if such lots encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas adjacent to the Urban Area.

1. Lots within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not be enlarged to encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas in order to provide more area for development.

1. Notwithstanding Objectives 3 and 4 above, new lots may include Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas designation under the following circumstances:
  - - a) correcting conveyances;
  - - b) where the land has, or is to be, acquired by a public body or an approved conservation organization; or
  - - c) enlarging existing lots, provided that no further fragmentation of the Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas adjacent to the Escarpment Recreation Area would result and that there is sufficient area within the Escarpment Recreation Area to accommodate development.

1. In ski centres and four-season recreational resort areas, development on prominent Escarpment slopes shall be limited to:
  - - a) recreational facilities, such as ski runs, ski lifts or slides that require the slope for the proper functioning of the operation;
  - - b) recreational uses, including walking or hiking trails (e.g., the Bruce Trail);
  - - c) accessory uses and accessory facilities, except for infrastructure, that are underground, localized in nature, and do not result in visual impacts, permanent loss of ground vegetation or trees, or permanent contour changes;
  - - d) accessory uses, and accessory facilities related to existing uses that have minimal negative impact on the Escarpment environment and maintain the open landscape character; and
  - - e) existing registered plans of subdivision or condominium.

1. In the Town of The Blue Mountains and the Municipality of Grey Highlands no additional development, including the creation of new lots, shall be permitted on the Escarpment slope above the contour identifying the toe of the Escarpment slope or the applicable property boundary deemed to be the toe of the Escarpment slope, except for those uses approved as part of the Town of The Blue Mountains Official Plan (as approved by the County of Grey on December 10, 2004), the Castle Glen Official Plan (dated October 23, 2006, and approved by the Ontario Municipal Board on December 4, 2006) or the Municipality of Grey Highlands Official Plan (as approved by the Ontario Municipal Board on September 29, 2003).

1. Lakeshore residential areas may extend inland to permit new development in a planned group provided that it does not encroach upon the Escarpment Natural Area or the Escarpment Protection Area designations and does not exceed approximately 200 metres in depth measured from the high water mark.

1. Within lakeshore residential areas, where proposed lots within a subdivision have no lake frontage, provision shall be made with the municipality (land or cash in lieu) prior to registration for public lake frontage to be part of or adjacent to the subdivision.

1. Growth and development in Escarpment Recreation Areas shall be compatible with and provide for:
  - - a) the protection of natural heritage features and functions;
  - - b) the protection of hydrologic features and functions;
  - - c) the protection of agricultural lands, including prime agricultural areas;
  - - d) the conservation of cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities;
  - - e) considerations for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improved resilience to the impacts of a changing climate;
  - - f) sustainable use of water resources for ecological and servicing needs; and compliance with the targets, criteria and recommendations of applicable water, wastewater and stormwater master plans, approved watershed planning and/or subwatershed plans in land use planning.

1. Recreational uses shall be designed to utilize existing site and topographical conditions. Minimum regrading, placement/excavation of fill and vegetation removal are allowed only if they are essential to the use and there are minimal negative impacts on the Escarpment environment.

1. Municipalities are encouraged to pass sign by-laws to ensure that community character, open landscape character and scenic resources of the Escarpment are maintained and enhanced.

1. Municipal sewer and water services will be the preferred form of servicing and, in the Town of The Blue Mountains, will be required in the Service Districts of Craigleith, Camperdown, Castle Glen, and Swiss Meadows, in accordance with the municipal official plan.

1.8.6 OFFICIAL PLANS, SECONDARY PLANS AND/OR BYLAWS

Official plans, secondary plans and/or by-laws for the designated Escarpment Recreation Areas may be amended without requiring an amendment to the Niagara Escarpment Plan, provided that these amendments are not in conflict with the objectives or the de

Minor Urban

This land use designation identifies those rural settlements, villages and hamlets that are distributed throughout the Niagara Escarpment Plan area.

1.6.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To recognize, maintain and enhance existing rural settlements or provide concentration points for development and growth in rural areas.

1. To ensure that cumulatively the existing Minor Urban Centres and any associated development and growth can be accommodated and serviced in a manner that would be environmentally sustainable over the long term.

1. To promote the co-location of compatible public services to address local community needs in convenient locations that are accessible by walking, cycling and public transit, where available.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To ensure that new development is compatible with the identity and traditional character of Minor Urban Centres.

1. To direct the growth of villages, hamlets, and settlement areas away from Escarpment Natural Areas and Escarpment Protection Areas into Escarpment Rural Areas in a logical manner with the least possible environmental and agricultural disruption.

1. To ensure that any growth will be in accordance with a municipal official plan and/or secondary plan that is not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.2 LIST OF MINOR URBAN CENTRES

The Minor Urban Centre designation includes the following list of villages and hamlets that are designated in local, regional or county official plans:

Balmy Beach, Glen Huron, Mount Nemo, Barrow Bay, Greensville, Oxenden, Belfountain, Henderson’s Corners, Queenston, Campbellville, Inglewood, Silver Creek, Cataract, Kilbride, Singhampton, Cheltenham, Kimberley, Springmount, Colpoys Bay, Limehouse, St. Davids, Copetown, Lowville, Terra Cotta (Caledon), Dunedin, Massie, Walters Falls, Dyers Bay, Mono Centre, Winona, Eugenia, Mono Mills, and Woodford

Additions to this list and the designations on Maps 1 to 9 require amendments to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

When a Minor Urban Centre is deleted as a designated rural settlement area by a municipality in an approved official plan and/or secondary plan, it may be removed from the list of Minor Urban Centres and the Maps of the Niagara Escarpment Plan modified accordingly, without an amendment to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.3 APPLICATION OF DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OBJECTIVES

The general Objectives and Development and Growth Objectives of this designation are to be applied in the preparation and approval of official plans and/or secondary plans for Minor Urban Centres. In the area of Development Control, the Development and Growth Objectives will be applied to all proposed development in conjunction with the other policies in this Plan.

1.6.4 BOUNDARIES

Minor Urban Centre boundaries will identify existing rural settlements, villages and hamlets. These Minor Urban Centres shall be maintained and enhanced either in their present form, or may accommodate growth and development within their boundaries, so long as it does not conflict with the community character and can be achieved in an environmentally sustainable manner. Any proposal to expand the boundary of a Minor Urban Centre shall require an amendment to the Niagara Escarpment Plan. An amendment is not required to reduce the boundary of a Minor Urban Centre, if the proposed boundary reduction is within the area of the former boundary and has been approved in a municipal official plan or secondary plan. Any reconfiguration of a Minor Urban Centre boundary, even if there is no net gain of Minor Urban Centre area, shall require an amendment if it includes lands outside the existing boundary.

1.6.5 PERMITTED USES AND LOT CREATION

Subject to Part 2, the Development Criteria, the range of permitted uses and the creation of new lots in a Minor Urban Centre will be those in an approved official plan and/or secondary plan not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan, subject to the Development and Growth Objectives of this designation.

1.6.6 AMENDMENTS TO MUNICIPAL PLANS AND/ OR SECONDARY PLANS

Amendments to designations and/or land use policies within the boundaries of an approved official plan and/or secondary plan that is not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan may be made without requiring an amendment to the Niagara Escarpment Plan provided such an amendment does not involve Escarpment Natural Areas, Mineral Resource Extraction Areas or conflict with the Objectives and Development and Growth Objectives of this designation.

1.6.7 LAND USE CONTROL

Land use control within a Minor Urban Centre with an approved official plan and/or secondary plan that is not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan may be exercised either through by-laws passed under the Planning Act or through Development Control as authorized under the provisions of the Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act.

By-laws or by-law amendments must not conflict with the Objectives and Development and Growth Objectives of this designation, and the Development Criteria in Part 2 of the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.8 DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OBJECTIVES

1. Development and growth, including the creation of new lots, shall not extend into the Escarpment Natural Areas.

1. The Escarpment Natural Area designation and its policies must be incorporated into the official plan/secondary plan or development proposal.

1. Development and growth should avoid Escarpment Protection Areas and be directed to Escarpment Rural Areas in a manner consistent with Escarpment Rural Area Objectives and Part 2, the Development Criteria of this Plan.

1. Development and growth should be limited to minimize land use conflicts (e.g., with agriculture) and all development should be of a design compatible with the scenic resources of the Escarpment. Where appropriate, provision for adequate setbacks, and maximum heights for buildings, structures and screening shall be required to minimize the visual impact of development, consistent with any applicable provincial guidance.

1. Development within Minor Urban Centres should encourage reduced energy consumption, improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions (consistent with provincial reduction targets to 2030 and 2050) and work towards the long-term goals of low carbon communities, net-zero communities and increased resilience to climate change, through maximizing opportunities for the use of green infrastructure and appropriate low impact development.

1. Development and growth should be minor only, relative to the size and capacity of the settlement to absorb new growth, so that the community character is maintained.

1. Development and growth should take place as a logical extension of existing development in the form of planned groups, rather than linear or scattered development. Expansion in depth, rather than extension along existing roads, is favoured.

1. Limited infilling may be permitted in the built-up portions of Minor Urban Centres that do not have an approved official plan and/or secondary plan.

1. Growth and development in Minor Urban Centres shall be compatible with and provide for:
  - - a) the protection of natural heritage features and functions;
  - - b) the protection of hydrologic features and functions;
  - - c) the protection of agricultural lands, including prime agricultural areas;
  - - d) the conservation of cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Metis communities;
  - - e) considerations for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improved resilience to the impacts of a changing climate;
  - - f) sustainable use of water resources for ecological and servicing needs; and First Nation and Métis communities;
  - - g) compliance with the targets, criteria and recommendations of applicable water, wastewater and stormwater master plans, approved watershed planning and/or subwatershed plan in land use planning.

1. Municipal sewage and water services will be the preferred form of servicing. Where municipal sewage services and municipal water services are not provided, the use of private communal sewage services and private communal water services may be permitted. Individual on-site sewage services and individual on-site water services may only be permitted where municipal or private communal services are not available.

1. Adequate public access to the Escarpment should be provided by such means as parking areas, walkways or pedestrian trails (e.g., the Bruce Trail).

1. Development and growth should be compatible with adjacent existing Mineral Resource Extraction Area designations and, where appropriate, incorporate methods of minimizing land use conflicts (e.g., staging, site design, berming).

Municipalities are encouraged to pass sign by-laws to ensure that the cultural heritage resources, attractive streetscapes and scenic resources of Minor Urban Centres are conserved.

Mineral Extraction

1.9.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To designate Mineral Resource Extraction Areas where licensed mineral aggregate operations are permitted.

1. To minimize the impact of mineral aggregate operations on the Escarpment environment.

1. To encourage progressive rehabilitation of mineral aggregate operations.

1. To encourage rehabilitated mineral aggregate operations to be restored to a state that is of equal or greater ecological or agricultural value than the original characteristics of the site.

1. To ensure that, after a licence is surrendered, the land is re-designated to a land use designation that is compatible with the rehabilitation of the site, the designation criteria of adjacent lands, the surrounding Escarpment environment and existing land uses in the area.

1. To encourage, where possible, the integration of rehabilitated lands into the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System.

1.9.2 CRITERION FOR DESIGNATION

Licensed pits and quarries producing more than 20,000 tonnes annually.

1.9.3 PERMITTED USES

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Existing uses.

1. Mineral aggregate operations licensed pursuant to the Aggregate Resources Act but not including associated facilities unless they are permitted as an accessory use.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Recreational uses.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Watershed management, and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. Accessory uses normally associated with the mineral aggregate operation, such as temporary offices serving the subject site, signage, crushing and washing facilities, or facilities for recycling and re- processing of mineral aggregate resources. Asphalt plants, concrete plants, brick manufacturing plants and other similar manufacturing uses shall not be permitted.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space Master/Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges and boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Policy expired.

1.9.4 LOT CREATION

1. Any new lot created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area shall require an amendment to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.9.4.1 and as provided for in Part 2.4.12 of this Plan, a new lot may be created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area by a NEPOSS agency or approved conservation organization specifically for the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System or for the establishment of a nature preserve, provided there is not more than one remnant lot.

1.9.5 AFTER USES

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Secondary dwelling units.

1. Mobile or portable dwelling unit(s) accessory to agriculture.

1. Recreational uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Accessory uses (e.g., a garage, swimming pools, tennis courts, ponds, or signs).

1. Institutional uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Home occupations and home industries.

1. Watershed management and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. New licensed mineral aggregate operations producing up to 20,000 tonnes annually.

1. Wayside pits and quarries.

1. Recycling depots for paper, glass and cans etc., serving the local community.

1. Bed and breakfast.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot).

1.5.4 LOT CREATION

New lots may be created, subject to conformity with the provisions of this section, the applicable policies in Part 2, Development Criteria, and official plans and, where applicable, zoning by-laws that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there has been no more than one previous lot severed from one of the affected original township lot or original township half lot. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.5.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or
  - - d) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. New lots may be created for agricultural uses, provided both the severed and remnant lots are of sufficient size to remain useful for agricultural purposes, and such lots are not less than 16 hectares in a specialty crop area or 40 hectares in any other prime agricultural area. These new lots shall only be permitted in municipalities where the official plan has identified specialty crop areas and/or prime agriculture areas.

1. New lots may be created for agriculture-related uses, provided that any new lot is limited to the minimum size needed to accommodate the use. A lot created for an agriculture-related use shall not be used for residential purposes.

1. Provided no lots have been created in the past from the original township lot, or original township half lot, where the original township lot is 80 hectares or more, and where the proposed lot is not in conflict with the Agricultural Policies of the Provincial Policy Statement, one lot may be severed for a permitted use.

1. No new lots are permitted where one or more lots have been severed from the original township lot, or original township half lot, where the original township lot is 80 hectares or more.

1. The severance of a lot with a residence that has been rendered surplus to an agricultural operation as a result of a farm consolidation is permitted, subject to the policies found in Section 2.4 and Section 2.8 of this Plan that apply to such a severance and the associated APO lot created by this severance.

A lot created by a public body (e.g., for a road or park) or by an approved conservation organization for a nature preserve will not be considered a previous lot. A remnant lot(s) created as a result of a lot acquired by a public body or an approved conservation organization, which may be used as a building lot(s), shall be considered an existing lot of record if the pre-existing lot was an existing lot of record and shall be considered a previous lot for the purpose of determining entitlement to additional severances if the pre-existing lot was a previous lot.

Recreation

Designated Recreation Areas are areas of existing or potential recreational development associated with the Escarpment. Such areas may include both seasonal and permanent residences.

1.8.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To minimize negative impacts of recreational development on the Escarpment environment.

1. To provide areas where new recreation and associated development can be concentrated around established, identified or approved downhill ski centres.

1. To provide areas where new recreation and associated development can be concentrated around established, identified or approved lakeshore residential areas in Grey and Bruce Counties.

1. To recognize the importance of the four-season recreation resort areas in the Town of the Blue Mountains to the tourism sector of Ontario’s economy.

1. To provide for the development of new ski centres or other recreational areas.

1. To ensure that recreational development protects and maintains community character, hydrologic and natural heritage features and functions, and the scenic resources of the Escarpment.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1.8.2 CRITERION FOR DESIGNATION

Established, identified or approved recreation areas (e.g., ski centres, lakeshore residential areas, and resort development areas).

1.8.3 PERMITTED USES

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Secondary dwelling units.

1. In ski centres, facilities such as ski runs, ski lifts, slide rides and toboggan runs that require the Escarpment slope.

1. Commercial development normally associated with a ski centre or a lakeshore residential area, such as marinas, lodges, retail stores and service establishments.

1. Golf courses.

1. Trail activities.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Billboards.

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot)

1. Accessory uses (e.g., garage, swimming pools, tennis courts, ponds or signs).

1. Infrastructure.

1.8.4 LOT CREATION

1.8.5 DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES

1. Development within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas.

1. Development within Recreation Areas should encourage reduced energy consumption, improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions (consistent with provincial reduction targets to 2030 and 2050) and working towards the long-term goals of lowcarbon communities, net-zero communities and increased resilience to climate change, through maximizing opportunities for the use of green infrastructure and appropriate low impact development.

1. New lots within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not be created if such lots encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas adjacent to the Urban Area.

1. Lots within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not be enlarged to encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas in order to provide more area for development.

1. Notwithstanding Objectives 3 and 4 above, new lots may include Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas designation under the following circumstances:
  - - a) correcting conveyances;
  - - b) where the land has, or is to be, acquired by a public body or an approved conservation organization; or
  - - c) enlarging existing lots, provided that no further fragmentation of the Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas adjacent to the Escarpment Recreation Area would result and that there is sufficient area within the Escarpment Recreation Area to accommodate development.

1. In ski centres and four-season recreational resort areas, development on prominent Escarpment slopes shall be limited to:
  - - a) recreational facilities, such as ski runs, ski lifts or slides that require the slope for the proper functioning of the operation;
  - - b) recreational uses, including walking or hiking trails (e.g., the Bruce Trail);
  - - c) accessory uses and accessory facilities, except for infrastructure, that are underground, localized in nature, and do not result in visual impacts, permanent loss of ground vegetation or trees, or permanent contour changes;
  - - d) accessory uses, and accessory facilities related to existing uses that have minimal negative impact on the Escarpment environment and maintain the open landscape character; and
  - - e) existing registered plans of subdivision or condominium.

1. In the Town of The Blue Mountains and the Municipality of Grey Highlands no additional development, including the creation of new lots, shall be permitted on the Escarpment slope above the contour identifying the toe of the Escarpment slope or the applicable property boundary deemed to be the toe of the Escarpment slope, except for those uses approved as part of the Town of The Blue Mountains Official Plan (as approved by the County of Grey on December 10, 2004), the Castle Glen Official Plan (dated October 23, 2006, and approved by the Ontario Municipal Board on December 4, 2006) or the Municipality of Grey Highlands Official Plan (as approved by the Ontario Municipal Board on September 29, 2003).

1. Lakeshore residential areas may extend inland to permit new development in a planned group provided that it does not encroach upon the Escarpment Natural Area or the Escarpment Protection Area designations and does not exceed approximately 200 metres in depth measured from the high water mark.

1. Within lakeshore residential areas, where proposed lots within a subdivision have no lake frontage, provision shall be made with the municipality (land or cash in lieu) prior to registration for public lake frontage to be part of or adjacent to the subdivision.

1. Growth and development in Escarpment Recreation Areas shall be compatible with and provide for:
  - - a) the protection of natural heritage features and functions;
  - - b) the protection of hydrologic features and functions;
  - - c) the protection of agricultural lands, including prime agricultural areas;
  - - d) the conservation of cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities;
  - - e) considerations for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improved resilience to the impacts of a changing climate;
  - - f) sustainable use of water resources for ecological and servicing needs; and compliance with the targets, criteria and recommendations of applicable water, wastewater and stormwater master plans, approved watershed planning and/or subwatershed plans in land use planning.

1. Recreational uses shall be designed to utilize existing site and topographical conditions. Minimum regrading, placement/excavation of fill and vegetation removal are allowed only if they are essential to the use and there are minimal negative impacts on the Escarpment environment.

1. Municipalities are encouraged to pass sign by-laws to ensure that community character, open landscape character and scenic resources of the Escarpment are maintained and enhanced.

1. Municipal sewer and water services will be the preferred form of servicing and, in the Town of The Blue Mountains, will be required in the Service Districts of Craigleith, Camperdown, Castle Glen, and Swiss Meadows, in accordance with the municipal official plan.

1.8.6 OFFICIAL PLANS, SECONDARY PLANS AND/OR BYLAWS

Minor Urban

This land use designation identifies those rural settlements, villages and hamlets that are distributed throughout the Niagara Escarpment Plan area.

1.6.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To recognize, maintain and enhance existing rural settlements or provide concentration points for development and growth in rural areas.

1. To ensure that cumulatively the existing Minor Urban Centres and any associated development and growth can be accommodated and serviced in a manner that would be environmentally sustainable over the long term.

1. To promote the co-location of compatible public services to address local community needs in convenient locations that are accessible by walking, cycling and public transit, where available.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To ensure that new development is compatible with the identity and traditional character of Minor Urban Centres.

1. To direct the growth of villages, hamlets, and settlement areas away from Escarpment Natural Areas and Escarpment Protection Areas into Escarpment Rural Areas in a logical manner with the least possible environmental and agricultural disruption.

1. To ensure that any growth will be in accordance with a municipal official plan and/or secondary plan that is not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.2 LIST OF MINOR URBAN CENTRES

The Minor Urban Centre designation includes the following list of villages and hamlets that are designated in local, regional or county official plans:

Additions to this list and the designations on Maps 1 to 9 require amendments to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.3 APPLICATION OF DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OBJECTIVES

1.6.4 BOUNDARIES

1.6.5 PERMITTED USES AND LOT CREATION

1.6.6 AMENDMENTS TO MUNICIPAL PLANS AND/ OR SECONDARY PLANS

1.6.7 LAND USE CONTROL

By-laws or by-law amendments must not conflict with the Objectives and Development and Growth Objectives of this designation, and the Development Criteria in Part 2 of the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.8 DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OBJECTIVES

1. Development and growth, including the creation of new lots, shall not extend into the Escarpment Natural Areas.

1. The Escarpment Natural Area designation and its policies must be incorporated into the official plan/secondary plan or development proposal.

1. Development and growth should avoid Escarpment Protection Areas and be directed to Escarpment Rural Areas in a manner consistent with Escarpment Rural Area Objectives and Part 2, the Development Criteria of this Plan.

1. Development and growth should be limited to minimize land use conflicts (e.g., with agriculture) and all development should be of a design compatible with the scenic resources of the Escarpment. Where appropriate, provision for adequate setbacks, and maximum heights for buildings, structures and screening shall be required to minimize the visual impact of development, consistent with any applicable provincial guidance.

1. Development within Minor Urban Centres should encourage reduced energy consumption, improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions (consistent with provincial reduction targets to 2030 and 2050) and work towards the long-term goals of low carbon communities, net-zero communities and increased resilience to climate change, through maximizing opportunities for the use of green infrastructure and appropriate low impact development.

1. Development and growth should be minor only, relative to the size and capacity of the settlement to absorb new growth, so that the community character is maintained.

1. Development and growth should take place as a logical extension of existing development in the form of planned groups, rather than linear or scattered development. Expansion in depth, rather than extension along existing roads, is favoured.

1. Limited infilling may be permitted in the built-up portions of Minor Urban Centres that do not have an approved official plan and/or secondary plan.

1. Growth and development in Minor Urban Centres shall be compatible with and provide for:
  - - a) the protection of natural heritage features and functions;
  - - b) the protection of hydrologic features and functions;
  - - c) the protection of agricultural lands, including prime agricultural areas;
  - - d) the conservation of cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Metis communities;
  - - e) considerations for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improved resilience to the impacts of a changing climate;
  - - f) sustainable use of water resources for ecological and servicing needs; and First Nation and Métis communities;
  - - g) compliance with the targets, criteria and recommendations of applicable water, wastewater and stormwater master plans, approved watershed planning and/or subwatershed plan in land use planning.

1. Municipal sewage and water services will be the preferred form of servicing. Where municipal sewage services and municipal water services are not provided, the use of private communal sewage services and private communal water services may be permitted. Individual on-site sewage services and individual on-site water services may only be permitted where municipal or private communal services are not available.

1. Adequate public access to the Escarpment should be provided by such means as parking areas, walkways or pedestrian trails (e.g., the Bruce Trail).

1. Development and growth should be compatible with adjacent existing Mineral Resource Extraction Area designations and, where appropriate, incorporate methods of minimizing land use conflicts (e.g., staging, site design, berming).

Municipalities are encouraged to pass sign by-laws to ensure that the cultural heritage resources, attractive streetscapes and scenic resources of Minor Urban Centres are conserved.

Mineral Extraction

1.9.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To designate Mineral Resource Extraction Areas where licensed mineral aggregate operations are permitted.

1. To minimize the impact of mineral aggregate operations on the Escarpment environment.

1. To encourage progressive rehabilitation of mineral aggregate operations.

1. To encourage rehabilitated mineral aggregate operations to be restored to a state that is of equal or greater ecological or agricultural value than the original characteristics of the site.

1. To ensure that, after a licence is surrendered, the land is re-designated to a land use designation that is compatible with the rehabilitation of the site, the designation criteria of adjacent lands, the surrounding Escarpment environment and existing land uses in the area.

1. To encourage, where possible, the integration of rehabilitated lands into the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System.

1.9.2 CRITERION FOR DESIGNATION

Licensed pits and quarries producing more than 20,000 tonnes annually.

1.9.3 PERMITTED USES

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Existing uses.

1. Mineral aggregate operations licensed pursuant to the Aggregate Resources Act but not including associated facilities unless they are permitted as an accessory use.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Recreational uses.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Watershed management, and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. Accessory uses normally associated with the mineral aggregate operation, such as temporary offices serving the subject site, signage, crushing and washing facilities, or facilities for recycling and re- processing of mineral aggregate resources. Asphalt plants, concrete plants, brick manufacturing plants and other similar manufacturing uses shall not be permitted.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space Master/Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges and boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Policy expired.

1.9.4 LOT CREATION

1. Any new lot created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area shall require an amendment to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.9.4.1 and as provided for in Part 2.4.12 of this Plan, a new lot may be created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area by a NEPOSS agency or approved conservation organization specifically for the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System or for the establishment of a nature preserve, provided there is not more than one remnant lot.

1.9.5 AFTER USES

1. To maintain the scenic resources of lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment and the open landscape character of the Escarpment.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To encourage forest management and recreation.

1. To provide for compatible rural land uses.

1. To encourage agriculture and protect agricultural lands and prime agricultural areas.

1. To provide a buffer for ecologically sensitive areas of the Escarpment.

To provide for the consideration of new Mineral Resource Extraction Areas which can be accommodated by an amendment to this Plan.

1.5.2 CRITERIA FOR DESIGNATION

1. Minor Escarpment slopes and Escarpment Related Landforms.

1. Lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment necessary to provide an open landscape character.

1. Lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment which are of ecological importance to the Escarpment environment.

1. Lands that have potential for enhanced ecological values through natural succession processes or due to their proximity to other ecologically sensitive lands, areas or features.

1.5.3 PERMITTED USES

Subject to Part 2, Development Criteria, the following are some common uses for Escarpment Rural lands:

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Secondary dwelling units.

1. Mobile or portable dwelling unit(s) accessory to agriculture.

1. Recreational uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Accessory uses (e.g., a garage, swimming pools, tennis courts, ponds, or signs).

1. Institutional uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Home occupations and home industries.

1. Watershed management and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. New licensed mineral aggregate operations producing up to 20,000 tonnes annually.

1. Wayside pits and quarries.

1. Recycling depots for paper, glass and cans etc., serving the local community.

1. Bed and breakfast.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot).

1.5.4 LOT CREATION

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there has been no more than one previous lot severed from one of the affected original township lot or original township half lot. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.5.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or
  - - d) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. New lots may be created for agricultural uses, provided both the severed and remnant lots are of sufficient size to remain useful for agricultural purposes, and such lots are not less than 16 hectares in a specialty crop area or 40 hectares in any other prime agricultural area. These new lots shall only be permitted in municipalities where the official plan has identified specialty crop areas and/or prime agriculture areas.

1. New lots may be created for agriculture-related uses, provided that any new lot is limited to the minimum size needed to accommodate the use. A lot created for an agriculture-related use shall not be used for residential purposes.

1. Provided no lots have been created in the past from the original township lot, or original township half lot, where the original township lot is 80 hectares or more, and where the proposed lot is not in conflict with the Agricultural Policies of the Provincial Policy Statement, one lot may be severed for a permitted use.

1. No new lots are permitted where one or more lots have been severed from the original township lot, or original township half lot, where the original township lot is 80 hectares or more.

1. The severance of a lot with a residence that has been rendered surplus to an agricultural operation as a result of a farm consolidation is permitted, subject to the policies found in Section 2.4 and Section 2.8 of this Plan that apply to such a severance and the associated APO lot created by this severance.

A lot created by a public body (e.g., for a road or park) or by an approved conservation organization for a nature preserve will not be considered a previous lot. A remnant lot(s) created as a result of a lot acquired by a public body or an approved conservation organization, which may be used as a building lot(s), shall be considered an existing lot of record if the pre-existing lot was an existing lot of record and shall be considered a previous lot for the purpose of determining entitlement to additional severances if the pre-existing lot was a previous lot.

Recreation

Designated Recreation Areas are areas of existing or potential recreational development associated with the Escarpment. Such areas may include both seasonal and permanent residences.

1.8.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To minimize negative impacts of recreational development on the Escarpment environment.

1. To provide areas where new recreation and associated development can be concentrated around established, identified or approved downhill ski centres.

1. To provide areas where new recreation and associated development can be concentrated around established, identified or approved lakeshore residential areas in Grey and Bruce Counties.

1. To recognize the importance of the four-season recreation resort areas in the Town of the Blue Mountains to the tourism sector of Ontario’s economy.

1. To provide for the development of new ski centres or other recreational areas.

1. To ensure that recreational development protects and maintains community character, hydrologic and natural heritage features and functions, and the scenic resources of the Escarpment.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1.8.2 CRITERION FOR DESIGNATION

Established, identified or approved recreation areas (e.g., ski centres, lakeshore residential areas, and resort development areas).

1.8.3 PERMITTED USES

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Secondary dwelling units.

1. In ski centres, facilities such as ski runs, ski lifts, slide rides and toboggan runs that require the Escarpment slope.

1. Commercial development normally associated with a ski centre or a lakeshore residential area, such as marinas, lodges, retail stores and service establishments.

1. Golf courses.

1. Trail activities.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Billboards.

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot)

1. Accessory uses (e.g., garage, swimming pools, tennis courts, ponds or signs).

1. Infrastructure.

1.8.4 LOT CREATION

1.8.5 DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES

1. Development within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas.

1. Development within Recreation Areas should encourage reduced energy consumption, improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions (consistent with provincial reduction targets to 2030 and 2050) and working towards the long-term goals of lowcarbon communities, net-zero communities and increased resilience to climate change, through maximizing opportunities for the use of green infrastructure and appropriate low impact development.

1. New lots within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not be created if such lots encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas adjacent to the Urban Area.

1. Lots within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not be enlarged to encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas in order to provide more area for development.

1. Notwithstanding Objectives 3 and 4 above, new lots may include Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas designation under the following circumstances:
  - - a) correcting conveyances;
  - - b) where the land has, or is to be, acquired by a public body or an approved conservation organization; or
  - - c) enlarging existing lots, provided that no further fragmentation of the Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas adjacent to the Escarpment Recreation Area would result and that there is sufficient area within the Escarpment Recreation Area to accommodate development.

1. In ski centres and four-season recreational resort areas, development on prominent Escarpment slopes shall be limited to:
  - - a) recreational facilities, such as ski runs, ski lifts or slides that require the slope for the proper functioning of the operation;
  - - b) recreational uses, including walking or hiking trails (e.g., the Bruce Trail);
  - - c) accessory uses and accessory facilities, except for infrastructure, that are underground, localized in nature, and do not result in visual impacts, permanent loss of ground vegetation or trees, or permanent contour changes;
  - - d) accessory uses, and accessory facilities related to existing uses that have minimal negative impact on the Escarpment environment and maintain the open landscape character; and
  - - e) existing registered plans of subdivision or condominium.

1. In the Town of The Blue Mountains and the Municipality of Grey Highlands no additional development, including the creation of new lots, shall be permitted on the Escarpment slope above the contour identifying the toe of the Escarpment slope or the applicable property boundary deemed to be the toe of the Escarpment slope, except for those uses approved as part of the Town of The Blue Mountains Official Plan (as approved by the County of Grey on December 10, 2004), the Castle Glen Official Plan (dated October 23, 2006, and approved by the Ontario Municipal Board on December 4, 2006) or the Municipality of Grey Highlands Official Plan (as approved by the Ontario Municipal Board on September 29, 2003).

1. Lakeshore residential areas may extend inland to permit new development in a planned group provided that it does not encroach upon the Escarpment Natural Area or the Escarpment Protection Area designations and does not exceed approximately 200 metres in depth measured from the high water mark.

1. Within lakeshore residential areas, where proposed lots within a subdivision have no lake frontage, provision shall be made with the municipality (land or cash in lieu) prior to registration for public lake frontage to be part of or adjacent to the subdivision.

1. Growth and development in Escarpment Recreation Areas shall be compatible with and provide for:
  - - a) the protection of natural heritage features and functions;
  - - b) the protection of hydrologic features and functions;
  - - c) the protection of agricultural lands, including prime agricultural areas;
  - - d) the conservation of cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities;
  - - e) considerations for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improved resilience to the impacts of a changing climate;
  - - f) sustainable use of water resources for ecological and servicing needs; and compliance with the targets, criteria and recommendations of applicable water, wastewater and stormwater master plans, approved watershed planning and/or subwatershed plans in land use planning.

1. Recreational uses shall be designed to utilize existing site and topographical conditions. Minimum regrading, placement/excavation of fill and vegetation removal are allowed only if they are essential to the use and there are minimal negative impacts on the Escarpment environment.

1. Municipalities are encouraged to pass sign by-laws to ensure that community character, open landscape character and scenic resources of the Escarpment are maintained and enhanced.

1. Municipal sewer and water services will be the preferred form of servicing and, in the Town of The Blue Mountains, will be required in the Service Districts of Craigleith, Camperdown, Castle Glen, and Swiss Meadows, in accordance with the municipal official plan.

1.8.6 OFFICIAL PLANS, SECONDARY PLANS AND/OR BYLAWS

Minor Urban

This land use designation identifies those rural settlements, villages and hamlets that are distributed throughout the Niagara Escarpment Plan area.

1.6.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To recognize, maintain and enhance existing rural settlements or provide concentration points for development and growth in rural areas.

1. To ensure that cumulatively the existing Minor Urban Centres and any associated development and growth can be accommodated and serviced in a manner that would be environmentally sustainable over the long term.

1. To promote the co-location of compatible public services to address local community needs in convenient locations that are accessible by walking, cycling and public transit, where available.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To ensure that new development is compatible with the identity and traditional character of Minor Urban Centres.

1. To direct the growth of villages, hamlets, and settlement areas away from Escarpment Natural Areas and Escarpment Protection Areas into Escarpment Rural Areas in a logical manner with the least possible environmental and agricultural disruption.

1. To ensure that any growth will be in accordance with a municipal official plan and/or secondary plan that is not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.2 LIST OF MINOR URBAN CENTRES

The Minor Urban Centre designation includes the following list of villages and hamlets that are designated in local, regional or county official plans:

Additions to this list and the designations on Maps 1 to 9 require amendments to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.3 APPLICATION OF DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OBJECTIVES

1.6.4 BOUNDARIES

1.6.5 PERMITTED USES AND LOT CREATION

1.6.6 AMENDMENTS TO MUNICIPAL PLANS AND/ OR SECONDARY PLANS

1.6.7 LAND USE CONTROL

By-laws or by-law amendments must not conflict with the Objectives and Development and Growth Objectives of this designation, and the Development Criteria in Part 2 of the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.8 DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OBJECTIVES

1. Development and growth, including the creation of new lots, shall not extend into the Escarpment Natural Areas.

1. The Escarpment Natural Area designation and its policies must be incorporated into the official plan/secondary plan or development proposal.

1. Development and growth should avoid Escarpment Protection Areas and be directed to Escarpment Rural Areas in a manner consistent with Escarpment Rural Area Objectives and Part 2, the Development Criteria of this Plan.

1. Development and growth should be limited to minimize land use conflicts (e.g., with agriculture) and all development should be of a design compatible with the scenic resources of the Escarpment. Where appropriate, provision for adequate setbacks, and maximum heights for buildings, structures and screening shall be required to minimize the visual impact of development, consistent with any applicable provincial guidance.

1. Development within Minor Urban Centres should encourage reduced energy consumption, improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions (consistent with provincial reduction targets to 2030 and 2050) and work towards the long-term goals of low carbon communities, net-zero communities and increased resilience to climate change, through maximizing opportunities for the use of green infrastructure and appropriate low impact development.

1. Development and growth should be minor only, relative to the size and capacity of the settlement to absorb new growth, so that the community character is maintained.

1. Development and growth should take place as a logical extension of existing development in the form of planned groups, rather than linear or scattered development. Expansion in depth, rather than extension along existing roads, is favoured.

1. Limited infilling may be permitted in the built-up portions of Minor Urban Centres that do not have an approved official plan and/or secondary plan.

1. Growth and development in Minor Urban Centres shall be compatible with and provide for:
  - - a) the protection of natural heritage features and functions;
  - - b) the protection of hydrologic features and functions;
  - - c) the protection of agricultural lands, including prime agricultural areas;
  - - d) the conservation of cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Metis communities;
  - - e) considerations for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improved resilience to the impacts of a changing climate;
  - - f) sustainable use of water resources for ecological and servicing needs; and First Nation and Métis communities;
  - - g) compliance with the targets, criteria and recommendations of applicable water, wastewater and stormwater master plans, approved watershed planning and/or subwatershed plan in land use planning.

1. Municipal sewage and water services will be the preferred form of servicing. Where municipal sewage services and municipal water services are not provided, the use of private communal sewage services and private communal water services may be permitted. Individual on-site sewage services and individual on-site water services may only be permitted where municipal or private communal services are not available.

1. Adequate public access to the Escarpment should be provided by such means as parking areas, walkways or pedestrian trails (e.g., the Bruce Trail).

1. Development and growth should be compatible with adjacent existing Mineral Resource Extraction Area designations and, where appropriate, incorporate methods of minimizing land use conflicts (e.g., staging, site design, berming).

Municipalities are encouraged to pass sign by-laws to ensure that the cultural heritage resources, attractive streetscapes and scenic resources of Minor Urban Centres are conserved.

Mineral Extraction

1.9.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To designate Mineral Resource Extraction Areas where licensed mineral aggregate operations are permitted.

1. To minimize the impact of mineral aggregate operations on the Escarpment environment.

1. To encourage progressive rehabilitation of mineral aggregate operations.

1. To encourage rehabilitated mineral aggregate operations to be restored to a state that is of equal or greater ecological or agricultural value than the original characteristics of the site.

1. To ensure that, after a licence is surrendered, the land is re-designated to a land use designation that is compatible with the rehabilitation of the site, the designation criteria of adjacent lands, the surrounding Escarpment environment and existing land uses in the area.

1. To encourage, where possible, the integration of rehabilitated lands into the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System.

1.9.2 CRITERION FOR DESIGNATION

Licensed pits and quarries producing more than 20,000 tonnes annually.

1.9.3 PERMITTED USES

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Existing uses.

1. Mineral aggregate operations licensed pursuant to the Aggregate Resources Act but not including associated facilities unless they are permitted as an accessory use.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Recreational uses.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Watershed management, and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. Accessory uses normally associated with the mineral aggregate operation, such as temporary offices serving the subject site, signage, crushing and washing facilities, or facilities for recycling and re- processing of mineral aggregate resources. Asphalt plants, concrete plants, brick manufacturing plants and other similar manufacturing uses shall not be permitted.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space Master/Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges and boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Policy expired.

1.9.4 LOT CREATION

1. Any new lot created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area shall require an amendment to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.9.4.1 and as provided for in Part 2.4.12 of this Plan, a new lot may be created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area by a NEPOSS agency or approved conservation organization specifically for the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System or for the establishment of a nature preserve, provided there is not more than one remnant lot.

1.9.5 AFTER USES

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot, from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there have been no previous lots severed from one of the affected original township lots or original township half lots. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.3.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or
  - - d) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. In the Town Plot of Brooke, Grey County, a lot may be created by severing one of the original Town Plot lots from another, provided there have been no previous lots severed from one of the affected Town Plot lots. Such severances shall only occur along the original Town Plot lines.

A lot created by a public body (e.g., for a road or park) or by an approved conservation organization for a nature preserve will not be considered a previous lot. A remnant lot(s) created as a result of a lot acquired by a public body, or an approved conservation organization, which may be used as a building lot(s) shall be considered an existing lot of record if the pre-existing lot was an existing lot of record and will be considered a previous lot for the purpose of determining entitlement to further severances if the pre-existing lot was a previous lot.

Protection

Escarpment Protection Areas are important because of their visual prominence and their environmental significance, including increased resilience to climate change through the provision of essential ecosystem services. They are often more visually prominent than Escarpment Natural Areas. Included in this designation are Escarpment Related Landforms and natural heritage and hydrologic features that have been significantly modified by land use activities, such as agriculture or residential development, as well as lands needed to buffer Escarpment Natural Areas and natural areas of regional significance.

The policies aim to protect and enhance natural and hydrologic features and the open landscape character of the Escarpment and lands in its vicinity.

1.4.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To maintain and enhance the scenic resources and open landscape character of the Escarpment.

1. To provide a buffer to prominent Escarpment features.

1. To recognize, protect and where possible enhance the natural heritage system associated with the Niagara Escarpment Plan area and protect natural areas of regional significance.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features and areas of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To encourage forest management, compatible recreation, conservation and educational activities.

To encourage agriculture and protect agricultural lands and prime agricultural areas.

1.4.2 CRITERIA FOR DESIGNATION

1. Escarpment slopes and Escarpment Related Landforms where existing land uses have significantly altered the natural environment (e.g., agricultural lands or residential development).

1. Areas in close proximity to Escarpment slopes that are visually part of the landscape unit.

Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (Life Science), or environmentally sensitive or environmentally significant areas identified by municipalities or conservation authorities.

1.4.3 PERMITTED USES

Common uses permitted under Escarpment Protection lands, subject to Part 2, Development Criteria, included:

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses, in prime agricultural areas.

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Mobile or portable dwelling unit(s) accessory to agriculture.

1. Non-motorized trail activities and snowmobiling, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Unserviced camping on public and institutional land, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Accessory uses (e.g., a garage, swimming pool, tennis court, ponds or signs).

1. Institutional uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Home occupations and home industries.

1. Watershed management and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Recycling depots for paper, glass and cans etc., serving the local community.

1. Bed and breakfast.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot).

1.4.4 LOT CREATION

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot, from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there have been no previous lots severed from one of the affected original township lots or original township half lots. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.4.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. New lots may be created for agricultural uses, provided both the severed and remnant lots are of sufficient size to remain useful for agricultural purposes, and such lots are not less than 16 hectares in a specialty crop area or 40 hectares in any other prime agricultural area. These new lots shall only be permitted in municipalities where the official plan has identified specialty crop areas and/or prime agricultural areas.

New lots may be created for agriculture-related uses, provided that any new lot is limited to the minimum size needed to accommodate the use. A lot created for an agriculture-related use shall not be used for residential purposes.

Rural

Escarpment Rural Areas are an essential component of the Escarpment corridor, including portions of the Escarpment and lands in its vicinity. They provide a buffer to the more ecologically sensitive areas of the Escarpment.

1.5.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To maintain the scenic resources of lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment and the open landscape character of the Escarpment.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To encourage forest management and recreation.

1. To provide for compatible rural land uses.

1. To encourage agriculture and protect agricultural lands and prime agricultural areas.

1. To provide a buffer for ecologically sensitive areas of the Escarpment.

To provide for the consideration of new Mineral Resource Extraction Areas which can be accommodated by an amendment to this Plan.

1.5.2 CRITERIA FOR DESIGNATION

1. Minor Escarpment slopes and Escarpment Related Landforms.

1. Lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment necessary to provide an open landscape character.

1. Lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment which are of ecological importance to the Escarpment environment.

1. Lands that have potential for enhanced ecological values through natural succession processes or due to their proximity to other ecologically sensitive lands, areas or features.

1.5.3 PERMITTED USES

Subject to Part 2, Development Criteria, the following are some common uses for Escarpment Rural lands:

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Secondary dwelling units.

1. Mobile or portable dwelling unit(s) accessory to agriculture.

1. Recreational uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Accessory uses (e.g., a garage, swimming pools, tennis courts, ponds, or signs).

1. Institutional uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Home occupations and home industries.

1. Watershed management and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. New licensed mineral aggregate operations producing up to 20,000 tonnes annually.

1. Wayside pits and quarries.

1. Recycling depots for paper, glass and cans etc., serving the local community.

1. Bed and breakfast.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot).

1.5.4 LOT CREATION

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there has been no more than one previous lot severed from one of the affected original township lot or original township half lot. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.5.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or
  - - d) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. New lots may be created for agricultural uses, provided both the severed and remnant lots are of sufficient size to remain useful for agricultural purposes, and such lots are not less than 16 hectares in a specialty crop area or 40 hectares in any other prime agricultural area. These new lots shall only be permitted in municipalities where the official plan has identified specialty crop areas and/or prime agriculture areas.

1. New lots may be created for agriculture-related uses, provided that any new lot is limited to the minimum size needed to accommodate the use. A lot created for an agriculture-related use shall not be used for residential purposes.

1. Provided no lots have been created in the past from the original township lot, or original township half lot, where the original township lot is 80 hectares or more, and where the proposed lot is not in conflict with the Agricultural Policies of the Provincial Policy Statement, one lot may be severed for a permitted use.

1. No new lots are permitted where one or more lots have been severed from the original township lot, or original township half lot, where the original township lot is 80 hectares or more.

1. The severance of a lot with a residence that has been rendered surplus to an agricultural operation as a result of a farm consolidation is permitted, subject to the policies found in Section 2.4 and Section 2.8 of this Plan that apply to such a severance and the associated APO lot created by this severance.

A lot created by a public body (e.g., for a road or park) or by an approved conservation organization for a nature preserve will not be considered a previous lot. A remnant lot(s) created as a result of a lot acquired by a public body or an approved conservation organization, which may be used as a building lot(s), shall be considered an existing lot of record if the pre-existing lot was an existing lot of record and shall be considered a previous lot for the purpose of determining entitlement to additional severances if the pre-existing lot was a previous lot.

Recreation

Designated Recreation Areas are areas of existing or potential recreational development associated with the Escarpment. Such areas may include both seasonal and permanent residences.

1.8.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To minimize negative impacts of recreational development on the Escarpment environment.

1. To provide areas where new recreation and associated development can be concentrated around established, identified or approved downhill ski centres.

1. To provide areas where new recreation and associated development can be concentrated around established, identified or approved lakeshore residential areas in Grey and Bruce Counties.

1. To recognize the importance of the four-season recreation resort areas in the Town of the Blue Mountains to the tourism sector of Ontario’s economy.

1. To provide for the development of new ski centres or other recreational areas.

1. To ensure that recreational development protects and maintains community character, hydrologic and natural heritage features and functions, and the scenic resources of the Escarpment.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1.8.2 CRITERION FOR DESIGNATION

Established, identified or approved recreation areas (e.g., ski centres, lakeshore residential areas, and resort development areas).

1.8.3 PERMITTED USES

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Secondary dwelling units.

1. In ski centres, facilities such as ski runs, ski lifts, slide rides and toboggan runs that require the Escarpment slope.

1. Commercial development normally associated with a ski centre or a lakeshore residential area, such as marinas, lodges, retail stores and service establishments.

1. Golf courses.

1. Trail activities.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Billboards.

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot)

1. Accessory uses (e.g., garage, swimming pools, tennis courts, ponds or signs).

1. Infrastructure.

1.8.4 LOT CREATION

1.8.5 DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES

1. Development within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas.

1. Development within Recreation Areas should encourage reduced energy consumption, improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions (consistent with provincial reduction targets to 2030 and 2050) and working towards the long-term goals of lowcarbon communities, net-zero communities and increased resilience to climate change, through maximizing opportunities for the use of green infrastructure and appropriate low impact development.

1. New lots within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not be created if such lots encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas adjacent to the Urban Area.

1. Lots within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not be enlarged to encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas in order to provide more area for development.

1. Notwithstanding Objectives 3 and 4 above, new lots may include Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas designation under the following circumstances:
  - - a) correcting conveyances;
  - - b) where the land has, or is to be, acquired by a public body or an approved conservation organization; or
  - - c) enlarging existing lots, provided that no further fragmentation of the Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas adjacent to the Escarpment Recreation Area would result and that there is sufficient area within the Escarpment Recreation Area to accommodate development.

1. In ski centres and four-season recreational resort areas, development on prominent Escarpment slopes shall be limited to:
  - - a) recreational facilities, such as ski runs, ski lifts or slides that require the slope for the proper functioning of the operation;
  - - b) recreational uses, including walking or hiking trails (e.g., the Bruce Trail);
  - - c) accessory uses and accessory facilities, except for infrastructure, that are underground, localized in nature, and do not result in visual impacts, permanent loss of ground vegetation or trees, or permanent contour changes;
  - - d) accessory uses, and accessory facilities related to existing uses that have minimal negative impact on the Escarpment environment and maintain the open landscape character; and
  - - e) existing registered plans of subdivision or condominium.

1. In the Town of The Blue Mountains and the Municipality of Grey Highlands no additional development, including the creation of new lots, shall be permitted on the Escarpment slope above the contour identifying the toe of the Escarpment slope or the applicable property boundary deemed to be the toe of the Escarpment slope, except for those uses approved as part of the Town of The Blue Mountains Official Plan (as approved by the County of Grey on December 10, 2004), the Castle Glen Official Plan (dated October 23, 2006, and approved by the Ontario Municipal Board on December 4, 2006) or the Municipality of Grey Highlands Official Plan (as approved by the Ontario Municipal Board on September 29, 2003).

1. Lakeshore residential areas may extend inland to permit new development in a planned group provided that it does not encroach upon the Escarpment Natural Area or the Escarpment Protection Area designations and does not exceed approximately 200 metres in depth measured from the high water mark.

1. Within lakeshore residential areas, where proposed lots within a subdivision have no lake frontage, provision shall be made with the municipality (land or cash in lieu) prior to registration for public lake frontage to be part of or adjacent to the subdivision.

1. Growth and development in Escarpment Recreation Areas shall be compatible with and provide for:
  - - a) the protection of natural heritage features and functions;
  - - b) the protection of hydrologic features and functions;
  - - c) the protection of agricultural lands, including prime agricultural areas;
  - - d) the conservation of cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities;
  - - e) considerations for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improved resilience to the impacts of a changing climate;
  - - f) sustainable use of water resources for ecological and servicing needs; and compliance with the targets, criteria and recommendations of applicable water, wastewater and stormwater master plans, approved watershed planning and/or subwatershed plans in land use planning.

1. Recreational uses shall be designed to utilize existing site and topographical conditions. Minimum regrading, placement/excavation of fill and vegetation removal are allowed only if they are essential to the use and there are minimal negative impacts on the Escarpment environment.

1. Municipalities are encouraged to pass sign by-laws to ensure that community character, open landscape character and scenic resources of the Escarpment are maintained and enhanced.

1. Municipal sewer and water services will be the preferred form of servicing and, in the Town of The Blue Mountains, will be required in the Service Districts of Craigleith, Camperdown, Castle Glen, and Swiss Meadows, in accordance with the municipal official plan.

1.8.6 OFFICIAL PLANS, SECONDARY PLANS AND/OR BYLAWS

Minor Urban

This land use designation identifies those rural settlements, villages and hamlets that are distributed throughout the Niagara Escarpment Plan area.

1.6.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To recognize, maintain and enhance existing rural settlements or provide concentration points for development and growth in rural areas.

1. To ensure that cumulatively the existing Minor Urban Centres and any associated development and growth can be accommodated and serviced in a manner that would be environmentally sustainable over the long term.

1. To promote the co-location of compatible public services to address local community needs in convenient locations that are accessible by walking, cycling and public transit, where available.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To ensure that new development is compatible with the identity and traditional character of Minor Urban Centres.

1. To direct the growth of villages, hamlets, and settlement areas away from Escarpment Natural Areas and Escarpment Protection Areas into Escarpment Rural Areas in a logical manner with the least possible environmental and agricultural disruption.

1. To ensure that any growth will be in accordance with a municipal official plan and/or secondary plan that is not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.2 LIST OF MINOR URBAN CENTRES

The Minor Urban Centre designation includes the following list of villages and hamlets that are designated in local, regional or county official plans:

Additions to this list and the designations on Maps 1 to 9 require amendments to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.3 APPLICATION OF DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OBJECTIVES

1.6.4 BOUNDARIES

1.6.5 PERMITTED USES AND LOT CREATION

1.6.6 AMENDMENTS TO MUNICIPAL PLANS AND/ OR SECONDARY PLANS

1.6.7 LAND USE CONTROL

By-laws or by-law amendments must not conflict with the Objectives and Development and Growth Objectives of this designation, and the Development Criteria in Part 2 of the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.8 DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OBJECTIVES

1. Development and growth, including the creation of new lots, shall not extend into the Escarpment Natural Areas.

1. The Escarpment Natural Area designation and its policies must be incorporated into the official plan/secondary plan or development proposal.

1. Development and growth should avoid Escarpment Protection Areas and be directed to Escarpment Rural Areas in a manner consistent with Escarpment Rural Area Objectives and Part 2, the Development Criteria of this Plan.

1. Development and growth should be limited to minimize land use conflicts (e.g., with agriculture) and all development should be of a design compatible with the scenic resources of the Escarpment. Where appropriate, provision for adequate setbacks, and maximum heights for buildings, structures and screening shall be required to minimize the visual impact of development, consistent with any applicable provincial guidance.

1. Development within Minor Urban Centres should encourage reduced energy consumption, improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions (consistent with provincial reduction targets to 2030 and 2050) and work towards the long-term goals of low carbon communities, net-zero communities and increased resilience to climate change, through maximizing opportunities for the use of green infrastructure and appropriate low impact development.

1. Development and growth should be minor only, relative to the size and capacity of the settlement to absorb new growth, so that the community character is maintained.

1. Development and growth should take place as a logical extension of existing development in the form of planned groups, rather than linear or scattered development. Expansion in depth, rather than extension along existing roads, is favoured.

1. Limited infilling may be permitted in the built-up portions of Minor Urban Centres that do not have an approved official plan and/or secondary plan.

1. Growth and development in Minor Urban Centres shall be compatible with and provide for:
  - - a) the protection of natural heritage features and functions;
  - - b) the protection of hydrologic features and functions;
  - - c) the protection of agricultural lands, including prime agricultural areas;
  - - d) the conservation of cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Metis communities;
  - - e) considerations for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improved resilience to the impacts of a changing climate;
  - - f) sustainable use of water resources for ecological and servicing needs; and First Nation and Métis communities;
  - - g) compliance with the targets, criteria and recommendations of applicable water, wastewater and stormwater master plans, approved watershed planning and/or subwatershed plan in land use planning.

1. Municipal sewage and water services will be the preferred form of servicing. Where municipal sewage services and municipal water services are not provided, the use of private communal sewage services and private communal water services may be permitted. Individual on-site sewage services and individual on-site water services may only be permitted where municipal or private communal services are not available.

1. Adequate public access to the Escarpment should be provided by such means as parking areas, walkways or pedestrian trails (e.g., the Bruce Trail).

1. Development and growth should be compatible with adjacent existing Mineral Resource Extraction Area designations and, where appropriate, incorporate methods of minimizing land use conflicts (e.g., staging, site design, berming).

Municipalities are encouraged to pass sign by-laws to ensure that the cultural heritage resources, attractive streetscapes and scenic resources of Minor Urban Centres are conserved.

Mineral Extraction

1.9.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To designate Mineral Resource Extraction Areas where licensed mineral aggregate operations are permitted.

1. To minimize the impact of mineral aggregate operations on the Escarpment environment.

1. To encourage progressive rehabilitation of mineral aggregate operations.

1. To encourage rehabilitated mineral aggregate operations to be restored to a state that is of equal or greater ecological or agricultural value than the original characteristics of the site.

1. To ensure that, after a licence is surrendered, the land is re-designated to a land use designation that is compatible with the rehabilitation of the site, the designation criteria of adjacent lands, the surrounding Escarpment environment and existing land uses in the area.

1. To encourage, where possible, the integration of rehabilitated lands into the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System.

1.9.2 CRITERION FOR DESIGNATION

Licensed pits and quarries producing more than 20,000 tonnes annually.

1.9.3 PERMITTED USES

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Existing uses.

1. Mineral aggregate operations licensed pursuant to the Aggregate Resources Act but not including associated facilities unless they are permitted as an accessory use.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Recreational uses.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Watershed management, and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. Accessory uses normally associated with the mineral aggregate operation, such as temporary offices serving the subject site, signage, crushing and washing facilities, or facilities for recycling and re- processing of mineral aggregate resources. Asphalt plants, concrete plants, brick manufacturing plants and other similar manufacturing uses shall not be permitted.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space Master/Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges and boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Policy expired.

1.9.4 LOT CREATION

1. Any new lot created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area shall require an amendment to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.9.4.1 and as provided for in Part 2.4.12 of this Plan, a new lot may be created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area by a NEPOSS agency or approved conservation organization specifically for the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System or for the establishment of a nature preserve, provided there is not more than one remnant lot.

1.9.5 AFTER USES

Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1.3.4 LOT CREATION

New lots may be created, subject to conformity with the provisions of this section, the applicable policies in Part 2, Development Criteria, and official plans and, where applicable, zoning by-laws that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot, from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there have been no previous lots severed from one of the affected original township lots or original township half lots. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.3.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or
  - - d) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. In the Town Plot of Brooke, Grey County, a lot may be created by severing one of the original Town Plot lots from another, provided there have been no previous lots severed from one of the affected Town Plot lots. Such severances shall only occur along the original Town Plot lines.

A lot created by a public body (e.g., for a road or park) or by an approved conservation organization for a nature preserve will not be considered a previous lot. A remnant lot(s) created as a result of a lot acquired by a public body, or an approved conservation organization, which may be used as a building lot(s) shall be considered an existing lot of record if the pre-existing lot was an existing lot of record and will be considered a previous lot for the purpose of determining entitlement to further severances if the pre-existing lot was a previous lot.

Protection

The policies aim to protect and enhance natural and hydrologic features and the open landscape character of the Escarpment and lands in its vicinity.

1.4.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To maintain and enhance the scenic resources and open landscape character of the Escarpment.

1. To provide a buffer to prominent Escarpment features.

1. To recognize, protect and where possible enhance the natural heritage system associated with the Niagara Escarpment Plan area and protect natural areas of regional significance.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features and areas of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To encourage forest management, compatible recreation, conservation and educational activities.

To encourage agriculture and protect agricultural lands and prime agricultural areas.

1.4.2 CRITERIA FOR DESIGNATION

1. Escarpment slopes and Escarpment Related Landforms where existing land uses have significantly altered the natural environment (e.g., agricultural lands or residential development).

1. Areas in close proximity to Escarpment slopes that are visually part of the landscape unit.

Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (Life Science), or environmentally sensitive or environmentally significant areas identified by municipalities or conservation authorities.

1.4.3 PERMITTED USES

Common uses permitted under Escarpment Protection lands, subject to Part 2, Development Criteria, included:

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses, in prime agricultural areas.

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Mobile or portable dwelling unit(s) accessory to agriculture.

1. Non-motorized trail activities and snowmobiling, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Unserviced camping on public and institutional land, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Accessory uses (e.g., a garage, swimming pool, tennis court, ponds or signs).

1. Institutional uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Home occupations and home industries.

1. Watershed management and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Recycling depots for paper, glass and cans etc., serving the local community.

1. Bed and breakfast.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot).

1.4.4 LOT CREATION

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot, from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there have been no previous lots severed from one of the affected original township lots or original township half lots. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.4.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. New lots may be created for agricultural uses, provided both the severed and remnant lots are of sufficient size to remain useful for agricultural purposes, and such lots are not less than 16 hectares in a specialty crop area or 40 hectares in any other prime agricultural area. These new lots shall only be permitted in municipalities where the official plan has identified specialty crop areas and/or prime agricultural areas.

New lots may be created for agriculture-related uses, provided that any new lot is limited to the minimum size needed to accommodate the use. A lot created for an agriculture-related use shall not be used for residential purposes.

Rural

1.5.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To maintain the scenic resources of lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment and the open landscape character of the Escarpment.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To encourage forest management and recreation.

1. To provide for compatible rural land uses.

1. To encourage agriculture and protect agricultural lands and prime agricultural areas.

1. To provide a buffer for ecologically sensitive areas of the Escarpment.

To provide for the consideration of new Mineral Resource Extraction Areas which can be accommodated by an amendment to this Plan.

1.5.2 CRITERIA FOR DESIGNATION

1. Minor Escarpment slopes and Escarpment Related Landforms.

1. Lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment necessary to provide an open landscape character.

1. Lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment which are of ecological importance to the Escarpment environment.

1. Lands that have potential for enhanced ecological values through natural succession processes or due to their proximity to other ecologically sensitive lands, areas or features.

1.5.3 PERMITTED USES

Subject to Part 2, Development Criteria, the following are some common uses for Escarpment Rural lands:

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Secondary dwelling units.

1. Mobile or portable dwelling unit(s) accessory to agriculture.

1. Recreational uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Accessory uses (e.g., a garage, swimming pools, tennis courts, ponds, or signs).

1. Institutional uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Home occupations and home industries.

1. Watershed management and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. New licensed mineral aggregate operations producing up to 20,000 tonnes annually.

1. Wayside pits and quarries.

1. Recycling depots for paper, glass and cans etc., serving the local community.

1. Bed and breakfast.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot).

1.5.4 LOT CREATION

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there has been no more than one previous lot severed from one of the affected original township lot or original township half lot. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.5.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or
  - - d) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. New lots may be created for agricultural uses, provided both the severed and remnant lots are of sufficient size to remain useful for agricultural purposes, and such lots are not less than 16 hectares in a specialty crop area or 40 hectares in any other prime agricultural area. These new lots shall only be permitted in municipalities where the official plan has identified specialty crop areas and/or prime agriculture areas.

1. New lots may be created for agriculture-related uses, provided that any new lot is limited to the minimum size needed to accommodate the use. A lot created for an agriculture-related use shall not be used for residential purposes.

1. Provided no lots have been created in the past from the original township lot, or original township half lot, where the original township lot is 80 hectares or more, and where the proposed lot is not in conflict with the Agricultural Policies of the Provincial Policy Statement, one lot may be severed for a permitted use.

1. No new lots are permitted where one or more lots have been severed from the original township lot, or original township half lot, where the original township lot is 80 hectares or more.

1. The severance of a lot with a residence that has been rendered surplus to an agricultural operation as a result of a farm consolidation is permitted, subject to the policies found in Section 2.4 and Section 2.8 of this Plan that apply to such a severance and the associated APO lot created by this severance.

A lot created by a public body (e.g., for a road or park) or by an approved conservation organization for a nature preserve will not be considered a previous lot. A remnant lot(s) created as a result of a lot acquired by a public body or an approved conservation organization, which may be used as a building lot(s), shall be considered an existing lot of record if the pre-existing lot was an existing lot of record and shall be considered a previous lot for the purpose of determining entitlement to additional severances if the pre-existing lot was a previous lot.

Recreation

Designated Recreation Areas are areas of existing or potential recreational development associated with the Escarpment. Such areas may include both seasonal and permanent residences.

1.8.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To minimize negative impacts of recreational development on the Escarpment environment.

1. To provide areas where new recreation and associated development can be concentrated around established, identified or approved downhill ski centres.

1. To provide areas where new recreation and associated development can be concentrated around established, identified or approved lakeshore residential areas in Grey and Bruce Counties.

1. To recognize the importance of the four-season recreation resort areas in the Town of the Blue Mountains to the tourism sector of Ontario’s economy.

1. To provide for the development of new ski centres or other recreational areas.

1. To ensure that recreational development protects and maintains community character, hydrologic and natural heritage features and functions, and the scenic resources of the Escarpment.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1.8.2 CRITERION FOR DESIGNATION

Established, identified or approved recreation areas (e.g., ski centres, lakeshore residential areas, and resort development areas).

1.8.3 PERMITTED USES

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Secondary dwelling units.

1. In ski centres, facilities such as ski runs, ski lifts, slide rides and toboggan runs that require the Escarpment slope.

1. Commercial development normally associated with a ski centre or a lakeshore residential area, such as marinas, lodges, retail stores and service establishments.

1. Golf courses.

1. Trail activities.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Billboards.

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot)

1. Accessory uses (e.g., garage, swimming pools, tennis courts, ponds or signs).

1. Infrastructure.

1.8.4 LOT CREATION

1.8.5 DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES

1. Development within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas.

1. Development within Recreation Areas should encourage reduced energy consumption, improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions (consistent with provincial reduction targets to 2030 and 2050) and working towards the long-term goals of lowcarbon communities, net-zero communities and increased resilience to climate change, through maximizing opportunities for the use of green infrastructure and appropriate low impact development.

1. New lots within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not be created if such lots encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas adjacent to the Urban Area.

1. Lots within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not be enlarged to encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas in order to provide more area for development.

1. Notwithstanding Objectives 3 and 4 above, new lots may include Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas designation under the following circumstances:
  - - a) correcting conveyances;
  - - b) where the land has, or is to be, acquired by a public body or an approved conservation organization; or
  - - c) enlarging existing lots, provided that no further fragmentation of the Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas adjacent to the Escarpment Recreation Area would result and that there is sufficient area within the Escarpment Recreation Area to accommodate development.

1. In ski centres and four-season recreational resort areas, development on prominent Escarpment slopes shall be limited to:
  - - a) recreational facilities, such as ski runs, ski lifts or slides that require the slope for the proper functioning of the operation;
  - - b) recreational uses, including walking or hiking trails (e.g., the Bruce Trail);
  - - c) accessory uses and accessory facilities, except for infrastructure, that are underground, localized in nature, and do not result in visual impacts, permanent loss of ground vegetation or trees, or permanent contour changes;
  - - d) accessory uses, and accessory facilities related to existing uses that have minimal negative impact on the Escarpment environment and maintain the open landscape character; and
  - - e) existing registered plans of subdivision or condominium.

1. In the Town of The Blue Mountains and the Municipality of Grey Highlands no additional development, including the creation of new lots, shall be permitted on the Escarpment slope above the contour identifying the toe of the Escarpment slope or the applicable property boundary deemed to be the toe of the Escarpment slope, except for those uses approved as part of the Town of The Blue Mountains Official Plan (as approved by the County of Grey on December 10, 2004), the Castle Glen Official Plan (dated October 23, 2006, and approved by the Ontario Municipal Board on December 4, 2006) or the Municipality of Grey Highlands Official Plan (as approved by the Ontario Municipal Board on September 29, 2003).

1. Lakeshore residential areas may extend inland to permit new development in a planned group provided that it does not encroach upon the Escarpment Natural Area or the Escarpment Protection Area designations and does not exceed approximately 200 metres in depth measured from the high water mark.

1. Within lakeshore residential areas, where proposed lots within a subdivision have no lake frontage, provision shall be made with the municipality (land or cash in lieu) prior to registration for public lake frontage to be part of or adjacent to the subdivision.

1. Growth and development in Escarpment Recreation Areas shall be compatible with and provide for:
  - - a) the protection of natural heritage features and functions;
  - - b) the protection of hydrologic features and functions;
  - - c) the protection of agricultural lands, including prime agricultural areas;
  - - d) the conservation of cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities;
  - - e) considerations for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improved resilience to the impacts of a changing climate;
  - - f) sustainable use of water resources for ecological and servicing needs; and compliance with the targets, criteria and recommendations of applicable water, wastewater and stormwater master plans, approved watershed planning and/or subwatershed plans in land use planning.

1. Recreational uses shall be designed to utilize existing site and topographical conditions. Minimum regrading, placement/excavation of fill and vegetation removal are allowed only if they are essential to the use and there are minimal negative impacts on the Escarpment environment.

1. Municipalities are encouraged to pass sign by-laws to ensure that community character, open landscape character and scenic resources of the Escarpment are maintained and enhanced.

1. Municipal sewer and water services will be the preferred form of servicing and, in the Town of The Blue Mountains, will be required in the Service Districts of Craigleith, Camperdown, Castle Glen, and Swiss Meadows, in accordance with the municipal official plan.

1.8.6 OFFICIAL PLANS, SECONDARY PLANS AND/OR BYLAWS

Minor Urban

This land use designation identifies those rural settlements, villages and hamlets that are distributed throughout the Niagara Escarpment Plan area.

1.6.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To recognize, maintain and enhance existing rural settlements or provide concentration points for development and growth in rural areas.

1. To ensure that cumulatively the existing Minor Urban Centres and any associated development and growth can be accommodated and serviced in a manner that would be environmentally sustainable over the long term.

1. To promote the co-location of compatible public services to address local community needs in convenient locations that are accessible by walking, cycling and public transit, where available.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To ensure that new development is compatible with the identity and traditional character of Minor Urban Centres.

1. To direct the growth of villages, hamlets, and settlement areas away from Escarpment Natural Areas and Escarpment Protection Areas into Escarpment Rural Areas in a logical manner with the least possible environmental and agricultural disruption.

1. To ensure that any growth will be in accordance with a municipal official plan and/or secondary plan that is not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.2 LIST OF MINOR URBAN CENTRES

The Minor Urban Centre designation includes the following list of villages and hamlets that are designated in local, regional or county official plans:

Additions to this list and the designations on Maps 1 to 9 require amendments to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.3 APPLICATION OF DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OBJECTIVES

1.6.4 BOUNDARIES

1.6.5 PERMITTED USES AND LOT CREATION

1.6.6 AMENDMENTS TO MUNICIPAL PLANS AND/ OR SECONDARY PLANS

1.6.7 LAND USE CONTROL

By-laws or by-law amendments must not conflict with the Objectives and Development and Growth Objectives of this designation, and the Development Criteria in Part 2 of the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.8 DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OBJECTIVES

1. Development and growth, including the creation of new lots, shall not extend into the Escarpment Natural Areas.

1. The Escarpment Natural Area designation and its policies must be incorporated into the official plan/secondary plan or development proposal.

1. Development and growth should avoid Escarpment Protection Areas and be directed to Escarpment Rural Areas in a manner consistent with Escarpment Rural Area Objectives and Part 2, the Development Criteria of this Plan.

1. Development and growth should be limited to minimize land use conflicts (e.g., with agriculture) and all development should be of a design compatible with the scenic resources of the Escarpment. Where appropriate, provision for adequate setbacks, and maximum heights for buildings, structures and screening shall be required to minimize the visual impact of development, consistent with any applicable provincial guidance.

1. Development within Minor Urban Centres should encourage reduced energy consumption, improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions (consistent with provincial reduction targets to 2030 and 2050) and work towards the long-term goals of low carbon communities, net-zero communities and increased resilience to climate change, through maximizing opportunities for the use of green infrastructure and appropriate low impact development.

1. Development and growth should be minor only, relative to the size and capacity of the settlement to absorb new growth, so that the community character is maintained.

1. Development and growth should take place as a logical extension of existing development in the form of planned groups, rather than linear or scattered development. Expansion in depth, rather than extension along existing roads, is favoured.

1. Limited infilling may be permitted in the built-up portions of Minor Urban Centres that do not have an approved official plan and/or secondary plan.

1. Growth and development in Minor Urban Centres shall be compatible with and provide for:
  - - a) the protection of natural heritage features and functions;
  - - b) the protection of hydrologic features and functions;
  - - c) the protection of agricultural lands, including prime agricultural areas;
  - - d) the conservation of cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Metis communities;
  - - e) considerations for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improved resilience to the impacts of a changing climate;
  - - f) sustainable use of water resources for ecological and servicing needs; and First Nation and Métis communities;
  - - g) compliance with the targets, criteria and recommendations of applicable water, wastewater and stormwater master plans, approved watershed planning and/or subwatershed plan in land use planning.

1. Municipal sewage and water services will be the preferred form of servicing. Where municipal sewage services and municipal water services are not provided, the use of private communal sewage services and private communal water services may be permitted. Individual on-site sewage services and individual on-site water services may only be permitted where municipal or private communal services are not available.

1. Adequate public access to the Escarpment should be provided by such means as parking areas, walkways or pedestrian trails (e.g., the Bruce Trail).

1. Development and growth should be compatible with adjacent existing Mineral Resource Extraction Area designations and, where appropriate, incorporate methods of minimizing land use conflicts (e.g., staging, site design, berming).

Municipalities are encouraged to pass sign by-laws to ensure that the cultural heritage resources, attractive streetscapes and scenic resources of Minor Urban Centres are conserved.

Mineral Extraction

1.9.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To designate Mineral Resource Extraction Areas where licensed mineral aggregate operations are permitted.

1. To minimize the impact of mineral aggregate operations on the Escarpment environment.

1. To encourage progressive rehabilitation of mineral aggregate operations.

1. To encourage rehabilitated mineral aggregate operations to be restored to a state that is of equal or greater ecological or agricultural value than the original characteristics of the site.

1. To ensure that, after a licence is surrendered, the land is re-designated to a land use designation that is compatible with the rehabilitation of the site, the designation criteria of adjacent lands, the surrounding Escarpment environment and existing land uses in the area.

1. To encourage, where possible, the integration of rehabilitated lands into the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System.

1.9.2 CRITERION FOR DESIGNATION

Licensed pits and quarries producing more than 20,000 tonnes annually.

1.9.3 PERMITTED USES

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Existing uses.

1. Mineral aggregate operations licensed pursuant to the Aggregate Resources Act but not including associated facilities unless they are permitted as an accessory use.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Recreational uses.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Watershed management, and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. Accessory uses normally associated with the mineral aggregate operation, such as temporary offices serving the subject site, signage, crushing and washing facilities, or facilities for recycling and re- processing of mineral aggregate resources. Asphalt plants, concrete plants, brick manufacturing plants and other similar manufacturing uses shall not be permitted.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space Master/Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges and boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Policy expired.

1.9.4 LOT CREATION

1. Any new lot created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area shall require an amendment to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.9.4.1 and as provided for in Part 2.4.12 of this Plan, a new lot may be created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area by a NEPOSS agency or approved conservation organization specifically for the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System or for the establishment of a nature preserve, provided there is not more than one remnant lot.

1.9.5 AFTER USES

Significant valleylands, provincially significant wetlands and wetlands greater than 20 hectares in size.

1.3.3 PERMITTED USES

Here are some common permitted uses in Escarpment Natural Area, subject to Part 2, Development Criteria:

1. Existing uses (for greater certainty, includes existing agricultural uses, existing agriculture-related uses and existing on-farm diversified uses).

1. Single dwellings.

1. Non-motorized trail activities, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Unserviced camping on public and institutional land, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Accessory uses (e.g., garage, swimming pools, tennis courts or signs), except for ponds.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Home occupations.

1. Essential watershed management and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Bed and breakfast.

Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1.3.4 LOT CREATION

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot, from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there have been no previous lots severed from one of the affected original township lots or original township half lots. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.3.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or
  - - d) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. In the Town Plot of Brooke, Grey County, a lot may be created by severing one of the original Town Plot lots from another, provided there have been no previous lots severed from one of the affected Town Plot lots. Such severances shall only occur along the original Town Plot lines.

A lot created by a public body (e.g., for a road or park) or by an approved conservation organization for a nature preserve will not be considered a previous lot. A remnant lot(s) created as a result of a lot acquired by a public body, or an approved conservation organization, which may be used as a building lot(s) shall be considered an existing lot of record if the pre-existing lot was an existing lot of record and will be considered a previous lot for the purpose of determining entitlement to further severances if the pre-existing lot was a previous lot.

Protection

The policies aim to protect and enhance natural and hydrologic features and the open landscape character of the Escarpment and lands in its vicinity.

1.4.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To maintain and enhance the scenic resources and open landscape character of the Escarpment.

1. To provide a buffer to prominent Escarpment features.

1. To recognize, protect and where possible enhance the natural heritage system associated with the Niagara Escarpment Plan area and protect natural areas of regional significance.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features and areas of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To encourage forest management, compatible recreation, conservation and educational activities.

To encourage agriculture and protect agricultural lands and prime agricultural areas.

1.4.2 CRITERIA FOR DESIGNATION

1. Escarpment slopes and Escarpment Related Landforms where existing land uses have significantly altered the natural environment (e.g., agricultural lands or residential development).

1. Areas in close proximity to Escarpment slopes that are visually part of the landscape unit.

Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (Life Science), or environmentally sensitive or environmentally significant areas identified by municipalities or conservation authorities.

1.4.3 PERMITTED USES

Common uses permitted under Escarpment Protection lands, subject to Part 2, Development Criteria, included:

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses, in prime agricultural areas.

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Mobile or portable dwelling unit(s) accessory to agriculture.

1. Non-motorized trail activities and snowmobiling, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Unserviced camping on public and institutional land, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Accessory uses (e.g., a garage, swimming pool, tennis court, ponds or signs).

1. Institutional uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Home occupations and home industries.

1. Watershed management and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Recycling depots for paper, glass and cans etc., serving the local community.

1. Bed and breakfast.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot).

1.4.4 LOT CREATION

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot, from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there have been no previous lots severed from one of the affected original township lots or original township half lots. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.4.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. New lots may be created for agricultural uses, provided both the severed and remnant lots are of sufficient size to remain useful for agricultural purposes, and such lots are not less than 16 hectares in a specialty crop area or 40 hectares in any other prime agricultural area. These new lots shall only be permitted in municipalities where the official plan has identified specialty crop areas and/or prime agricultural areas.

New lots may be created for agriculture-related uses, provided that any new lot is limited to the minimum size needed to accommodate the use. A lot created for an agriculture-related use shall not be used for residential purposes.

Rural

1.5.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To maintain the scenic resources of lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment and the open landscape character of the Escarpment.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To encourage forest management and recreation.

1. To provide for compatible rural land uses.

1. To encourage agriculture and protect agricultural lands and prime agricultural areas.

1. To provide a buffer for ecologically sensitive areas of the Escarpment.

To provide for the consideration of new Mineral Resource Extraction Areas which can be accommodated by an amendment to this Plan.

1.5.2 CRITERIA FOR DESIGNATION

1. Minor Escarpment slopes and Escarpment Related Landforms.

1. Lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment necessary to provide an open landscape character.

1. Lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment which are of ecological importance to the Escarpment environment.

1. Lands that have potential for enhanced ecological values through natural succession processes or due to their proximity to other ecologically sensitive lands, areas or features.

1.5.3 PERMITTED USES

Subject to Part 2, Development Criteria, the following are some common uses for Escarpment Rural lands:

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Secondary dwelling units.

1. Mobile or portable dwelling unit(s) accessory to agriculture.

1. Recreational uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Accessory uses (e.g., a garage, swimming pools, tennis courts, ponds, or signs).

1. Institutional uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Home occupations and home industries.

1. Watershed management and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. New licensed mineral aggregate operations producing up to 20,000 tonnes annually.

1. Wayside pits and quarries.

1. Recycling depots for paper, glass and cans etc., serving the local community.

1. Bed and breakfast.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot).

1.5.4 LOT CREATION

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there has been no more than one previous lot severed from one of the affected original township lot or original township half lot. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.5.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or
  - - d) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. New lots may be created for agricultural uses, provided both the severed and remnant lots are of sufficient size to remain useful for agricultural purposes, and such lots are not less than 16 hectares in a specialty crop area or 40 hectares in any other prime agricultural area. These new lots shall only be permitted in municipalities where the official plan has identified specialty crop areas and/or prime agriculture areas.

1. New lots may be created for agriculture-related uses, provided that any new lot is limited to the minimum size needed to accommodate the use. A lot created for an agriculture-related use shall not be used for residential purposes.

1. Provided no lots have been created in the past from the original township lot, or original township half lot, where the original township lot is 80 hectares or more, and where the proposed lot is not in conflict with the Agricultural Policies of the Provincial Policy Statement, one lot may be severed for a permitted use.

1. No new lots are permitted where one or more lots have been severed from the original township lot, or original township half lot, where the original township lot is 80 hectares or more.

1. The severance of a lot with a residence that has been rendered surplus to an agricultural operation as a result of a farm consolidation is permitted, subject to the policies found in Section 2.4 and Section 2.8 of this Plan that apply to such a severance and the associated APO lot created by this severance.

A lot created by a public body (e.g., for a road or park) or by an approved conservation organization for a nature preserve will not be considered a previous lot. A remnant lot(s) created as a result of a lot acquired by a public body or an approved conservation organization, which may be used as a building lot(s), shall be considered an existing lot of record if the pre-existing lot was an existing lot of record and shall be considered a previous lot for the purpose of determining entitlement to additional severances if the pre-existing lot was a previous lot.

Recreation

Designated Recreation Areas are areas of existing or potential recreational development associated with the Escarpment. Such areas may include both seasonal and permanent residences.

1.8.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To minimize negative impacts of recreational development on the Escarpment environment.

1. To provide areas where new recreation and associated development can be concentrated around established, identified or approved downhill ski centres.

1. To provide areas where new recreation and associated development can be concentrated around established, identified or approved lakeshore residential areas in Grey and Bruce Counties.

1. To recognize the importance of the four-season recreation resort areas in the Town of the Blue Mountains to the tourism sector of Ontario’s economy.

1. To provide for the development of new ski centres or other recreational areas.

1. To ensure that recreational development protects and maintains community character, hydrologic and natural heritage features and functions, and the scenic resources of the Escarpment.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1.8.2 CRITERION FOR DESIGNATION

Established, identified or approved recreation areas (e.g., ski centres, lakeshore residential areas, and resort development areas).

1.8.3 PERMITTED USES

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Secondary dwelling units.

1. In ski centres, facilities such as ski runs, ski lifts, slide rides and toboggan runs that require the Escarpment slope.

1. Commercial development normally associated with a ski centre or a lakeshore residential area, such as marinas, lodges, retail stores and service establishments.

1. Golf courses.

1. Trail activities.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Billboards.

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot)

1. Accessory uses (e.g., garage, swimming pools, tennis courts, ponds or signs).

1. Infrastructure.

1.8.4 LOT CREATION

1.8.5 DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES

1. Development within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas.

1. Development within Recreation Areas should encourage reduced energy consumption, improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions (consistent with provincial reduction targets to 2030 and 2050) and working towards the long-term goals of lowcarbon communities, net-zero communities and increased resilience to climate change, through maximizing opportunities for the use of green infrastructure and appropriate low impact development.

1. New lots within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not be created if such lots encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas adjacent to the Urban Area.

1. Lots within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not be enlarged to encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas in order to provide more area for development.

1. Notwithstanding Objectives 3 and 4 above, new lots may include Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas designation under the following circumstances:
  - - a) correcting conveyances;
  - - b) where the land has, or is to be, acquired by a public body or an approved conservation organization; or
  - - c) enlarging existing lots, provided that no further fragmentation of the Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas adjacent to the Escarpment Recreation Area would result and that there is sufficient area within the Escarpment Recreation Area to accommodate development.

1. In ski centres and four-season recreational resort areas, development on prominent Escarpment slopes shall be limited to:
  - - a) recreational facilities, such as ski runs, ski lifts or slides that require the slope for the proper functioning of the operation;
  - - b) recreational uses, including walking or hiking trails (e.g., the Bruce Trail);
  - - c) accessory uses and accessory facilities, except for infrastructure, that are underground, localized in nature, and do not result in visual impacts, permanent loss of ground vegetation or trees, or permanent contour changes;
  - - d) accessory uses, and accessory facilities related to existing uses that have minimal negative impact on the Escarpment environment and maintain the open landscape character; and
  - - e) existing registered plans of subdivision or condominium.

1. In the Town of The Blue Mountains and the Municipality of Grey Highlands no additional development, including the creation of new lots, shall be permitted on the Escarpment slope above the contour identifying the toe of the Escarpment slope or the applicable property boundary deemed to be the toe of the Escarpment slope, except for those uses approved as part of the Town of The Blue Mountains Official Plan (as approved by the County of Grey on December 10, 2004), the Castle Glen Official Plan (dated October 23, 2006, and approved by the Ontario Municipal Board on December 4, 2006) or the Municipality of Grey Highlands Official Plan (as approved by the Ontario Municipal Board on September 29, 2003).

1. Lakeshore residential areas may extend inland to permit new development in a planned group provided that it does not encroach upon the Escarpment Natural Area or the Escarpment Protection Area designations and does not exceed approximately 200 metres in depth measured from the high water mark.

1. Within lakeshore residential areas, where proposed lots within a subdivision have no lake frontage, provision shall be made with the municipality (land or cash in lieu) prior to registration for public lake frontage to be part of or adjacent to the subdivision.

1. Growth and development in Escarpment Recreation Areas shall be compatible with and provide for:
  - - a) the protection of natural heritage features and functions;
  - - b) the protection of hydrologic features and functions;
  - - c) the protection of agricultural lands, including prime agricultural areas;
  - - d) the conservation of cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities;
  - - e) considerations for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improved resilience to the impacts of a changing climate;
  - - f) sustainable use of water resources for ecological and servicing needs; and compliance with the targets, criteria and recommendations of applicable water, wastewater and stormwater master plans, approved watershed planning and/or subwatershed plans in land use planning.

1. Recreational uses shall be designed to utilize existing site and topographical conditions. Minimum regrading, placement/excavation of fill and vegetation removal are allowed only if they are essential to the use and there are minimal negative impacts on the Escarpment environment.

1. Municipalities are encouraged to pass sign by-laws to ensure that community character, open landscape character and scenic resources of the Escarpment are maintained and enhanced.

1. Municipal sewer and water services will be the preferred form of servicing and, in the Town of The Blue Mountains, will be required in the Service Districts of Craigleith, Camperdown, Castle Glen, and Swiss Meadows, in accordance with the municipal official plan.

1.8.6 OFFICIAL PLANS, SECONDARY PLANS AND/OR BYLAWS

Minor Urban

This land use designation identifies those rural settlements, villages and hamlets that are distributed throughout the Niagara Escarpment Plan area.

1.6.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To recognize, maintain and enhance existing rural settlements or provide concentration points for development and growth in rural areas.

1. To ensure that cumulatively the existing Minor Urban Centres and any associated development and growth can be accommodated and serviced in a manner that would be environmentally sustainable over the long term.

1. To promote the co-location of compatible public services to address local community needs in convenient locations that are accessible by walking, cycling and public transit, where available.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To ensure that new development is compatible with the identity and traditional character of Minor Urban Centres.

1. To direct the growth of villages, hamlets, and settlement areas away from Escarpment Natural Areas and Escarpment Protection Areas into Escarpment Rural Areas in a logical manner with the least possible environmental and agricultural disruption.

1. To ensure that any growth will be in accordance with a municipal official plan and/or secondary plan that is not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.2 LIST OF MINOR URBAN CENTRES

The Minor Urban Centre designation includes the following list of villages and hamlets that are designated in local, regional or county official plans:

Additions to this list and the designations on Maps 1 to 9 require amendments to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.3 APPLICATION OF DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OBJECTIVES

1.6.4 BOUNDARIES

1.6.5 PERMITTED USES AND LOT CREATION

1.6.6 AMENDMENTS TO MUNICIPAL PLANS AND/ OR SECONDARY PLANS

1.6.7 LAND USE CONTROL

By-laws or by-law amendments must not conflict with the Objectives and Development and Growth Objectives of this designation, and the Development Criteria in Part 2 of the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.8 DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OBJECTIVES

1. Development and growth, including the creation of new lots, shall not extend into the Escarpment Natural Areas.

1. The Escarpment Natural Area designation and its policies must be incorporated into the official plan/secondary plan or development proposal.

1. Development and growth should avoid Escarpment Protection Areas and be directed to Escarpment Rural Areas in a manner consistent with Escarpment Rural Area Objectives and Part 2, the Development Criteria of this Plan.

1. Development and growth should be limited to minimize land use conflicts (e.g., with agriculture) and all development should be of a design compatible with the scenic resources of the Escarpment. Where appropriate, provision for adequate setbacks, and maximum heights for buildings, structures and screening shall be required to minimize the visual impact of development, consistent with any applicable provincial guidance.

1. Development within Minor Urban Centres should encourage reduced energy consumption, improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions (consistent with provincial reduction targets to 2030 and 2050) and work towards the long-term goals of low carbon communities, net-zero communities and increased resilience to climate change, through maximizing opportunities for the use of green infrastructure and appropriate low impact development.

1. Development and growth should be minor only, relative to the size and capacity of the settlement to absorb new growth, so that the community character is maintained.

1. Development and growth should take place as a logical extension of existing development in the form of planned groups, rather than linear or scattered development. Expansion in depth, rather than extension along existing roads, is favoured.

1. Limited infilling may be permitted in the built-up portions of Minor Urban Centres that do not have an approved official plan and/or secondary plan.

1. Growth and development in Minor Urban Centres shall be compatible with and provide for:
  - - a) the protection of natural heritage features and functions;
  - - b) the protection of hydrologic features and functions;
  - - c) the protection of agricultural lands, including prime agricultural areas;
  - - d) the conservation of cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Metis communities;
  - - e) considerations for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improved resilience to the impacts of a changing climate;
  - - f) sustainable use of water resources for ecological and servicing needs; and First Nation and Métis communities;
  - - g) compliance with the targets, criteria and recommendations of applicable water, wastewater and stormwater master plans, approved watershed planning and/or subwatershed plan in land use planning.

1. Municipal sewage and water services will be the preferred form of servicing. Where municipal sewage services and municipal water services are not provided, the use of private communal sewage services and private communal water services may be permitted. Individual on-site sewage services and individual on-site water services may only be permitted where municipal or private communal services are not available.

1. Adequate public access to the Escarpment should be provided by such means as parking areas, walkways or pedestrian trails (e.g., the Bruce Trail).

1. Development and growth should be compatible with adjacent existing Mineral Resource Extraction Area designations and, where appropriate, incorporate methods of minimizing land use conflicts (e.g., staging, site design, berming).

Municipalities are encouraged to pass sign by-laws to ensure that the cultural heritage resources, attractive streetscapes and scenic resources of Minor Urban Centres are conserved.

Mineral Extraction

1.9.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To designate Mineral Resource Extraction Areas where licensed mineral aggregate operations are permitted.

1. To minimize the impact of mineral aggregate operations on the Escarpment environment.

1. To encourage progressive rehabilitation of mineral aggregate operations.

1. To encourage rehabilitated mineral aggregate operations to be restored to a state that is of equal or greater ecological or agricultural value than the original characteristics of the site.

1. To ensure that, after a licence is surrendered, the land is re-designated to a land use designation that is compatible with the rehabilitation of the site, the designation criteria of adjacent lands, the surrounding Escarpment environment and existing land uses in the area.

1. To encourage, where possible, the integration of rehabilitated lands into the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System.

1.9.2 CRITERION FOR DESIGNATION

Licensed pits and quarries producing more than 20,000 tonnes annually.

1.9.3 PERMITTED USES

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Existing uses.

1. Mineral aggregate operations licensed pursuant to the Aggregate Resources Act but not including associated facilities unless they are permitted as an accessory use.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Recreational uses.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Watershed management, and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. Accessory uses normally associated with the mineral aggregate operation, such as temporary offices serving the subject site, signage, crushing and washing facilities, or facilities for recycling and re- processing of mineral aggregate resources. Asphalt plants, concrete plants, brick manufacturing plants and other similar manufacturing uses shall not be permitted.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space Master/Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges and boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Policy expired.

1.9.4 LOT CREATION

1. Any new lot created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area shall require an amendment to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.9.4.1 and as provided for in Part 2.4.12 of this Plan, a new lot may be created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area by a NEPOSS agency or approved conservation organization specifically for the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System or for the establishment of a nature preserve, provided there is not more than one remnant lot.

1.9.5 AFTER USES

Significant valleylands, provincially significant wetlands and wetlands greater than 20 hectares in size.

1.3.3 PERMITTED USES

Here are some common permitted uses in Escarpment Natural Area, subject to Part 2, Development Criteria:

1. Existing uses (for greater certainty, includes existing agricultural uses, existing agriculture-related uses and existing on-farm diversified uses).

1. Single dwellings.

1. Non-motorized trail activities, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Unserviced camping on public and institutional land, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Accessory uses (e.g., garage, swimming pools, tennis courts or signs), except for ponds.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Home occupations.

1. Essential watershed management and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Bed and breakfast.

Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1.3.4 LOT CREATION

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot, from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there have been no previous lots severed from one of the affected original township lots or original township half lots. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.3.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or
  - - d) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. In the Town Plot of Brooke, Grey County, a lot may be created by severing one of the original Town Plot lots from another, provided there have been no previous lots severed from one of the affected Town Plot lots. Such severances shall only occur along the original Town Plot lines.

A lot created by a public body (e.g., for a road or park) or by an approved conservation organization for a nature preserve will not be considered a previous lot. A remnant lot(s) created as a result of a lot acquired by a public body, or an approved conservation organization, which may be used as a building lot(s) shall be considered an existing lot of record if the pre-existing lot was an existing lot of record and will be considered a previous lot for the purpose of determining entitlement to further severances if the pre-existing lot was a previous lot.

Protection

The policies aim to protect and enhance natural and hydrologic features and the open landscape character of the Escarpment and lands in its vicinity.

1.4.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To maintain and enhance the scenic resources and open landscape character of the Escarpment.

1. To provide a buffer to prominent Escarpment features.

1. To recognize, protect and where possible enhance the natural heritage system associated with the Niagara Escarpment Plan area and protect natural areas of regional significance.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features and areas of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To encourage forest management, compatible recreation, conservation and educational activities.

To encourage agriculture and protect agricultural lands and prime agricultural areas.

1.4.2 CRITERIA FOR DESIGNATION

1. Escarpment slopes and Escarpment Related Landforms where existing land uses have significantly altered the natural environment (e.g., agricultural lands or residential development).

1. Areas in close proximity to Escarpment slopes that are visually part of the landscape unit.

Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (Life Science), or environmentally sensitive or environmentally significant areas identified by municipalities or conservation authorities.

1.4.3 PERMITTED USES

Common uses permitted under Escarpment Protection lands, subject to Part 2, Development Criteria, included:

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses, in prime agricultural areas.

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Mobile or portable dwelling unit(s) accessory to agriculture.

1. Non-motorized trail activities and snowmobiling, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Unserviced camping on public and institutional land, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Accessory uses (e.g., a garage, swimming pool, tennis court, ponds or signs).

1. Institutional uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Home occupations and home industries.

1. Watershed management and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Recycling depots for paper, glass and cans etc., serving the local community.

1. Bed and breakfast.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot).

1.4.4 LOT CREATION

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot, from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there have been no previous lots severed from one of the affected original township lots or original township half lots. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.4.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. New lots may be created for agricultural uses, provided both the severed and remnant lots are of sufficient size to remain useful for agricultural purposes, and such lots are not less than 16 hectares in a specialty crop area or 40 hectares in any other prime agricultural area. These new lots shall only be permitted in municipalities where the official plan has identified specialty crop areas and/or prime agricultural areas.

New lots may be created for agriculture-related uses, provided that any new lot is limited to the minimum size needed to accommodate the use. A lot created for an agriculture-related use shall not be used for residential purposes.

Rural

1.5.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To maintain the scenic resources of lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment and the open landscape character of the Escarpment.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To encourage forest management and recreation.

1. To provide for compatible rural land uses.

1. To encourage agriculture and protect agricultural lands and prime agricultural areas.

1. To provide a buffer for ecologically sensitive areas of the Escarpment.

To provide for the consideration of new Mineral Resource Extraction Areas which can be accommodated by an amendment to this Plan.

1.5.2 CRITERIA FOR DESIGNATION

1. Minor Escarpment slopes and Escarpment Related Landforms.

1. Lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment necessary to provide an open landscape character.

1. Lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment which are of ecological importance to the Escarpment environment.

1. Lands that have potential for enhanced ecological values through natural succession processes or due to their proximity to other ecologically sensitive lands, areas or features.

1.5.3 PERMITTED USES

Subject to Part 2, Development Criteria, the following are some common uses for Escarpment Rural lands:

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Secondary dwelling units.

1. Mobile or portable dwelling unit(s) accessory to agriculture.

1. Recreational uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Accessory uses (e.g., a garage, swimming pools, tennis courts, ponds, or signs).

1. Institutional uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Home occupations and home industries.

1. Watershed management and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. New licensed mineral aggregate operations producing up to 20,000 tonnes annually.

1. Wayside pits and quarries.

1. Recycling depots for paper, glass and cans etc., serving the local community.

1. Bed and breakfast.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot).

1.5.4 LOT CREATION

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there has been no more than one previous lot severed from one of the affected original township lot or original township half lot. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.5.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or
  - - d) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. New lots may be created for agricultural uses, provided both the severed and remnant lots are of sufficient size to remain useful for agricultural purposes, and such lots are not less than 16 hectares in a specialty crop area or 40 hectares in any other prime agricultural area. These new lots shall only be permitted in municipalities where the official plan has identified specialty crop areas and/or prime agriculture areas.

1. New lots may be created for agriculture-related uses, provided that any new lot is limited to the minimum size needed to accommodate the use. A lot created for an agriculture-related use shall not be used for residential purposes.

1. Provided no lots have been created in the past from the original township lot, or original township half lot, where the original township lot is 80 hectares or more, and where the proposed lot is not in conflict with the Agricultural Policies of the Provincial Policy Statement, one lot may be severed for a permitted use.

1. No new lots are permitted where one or more lots have been severed from the original township lot, or original township half lot, where the original township lot is 80 hectares or more.

1. The severance of a lot with a residence that has been rendered surplus to an agricultural operation as a result of a farm consolidation is permitted, subject to the policies found in Section 2.4 and Section 2.8 of this Plan that apply to such a severance and the associated APO lot created by this severance.

A lot created by a public body (e.g., for a road or park) or by an approved conservation organization for a nature preserve will not be considered a previous lot. A remnant lot(s) created as a result of a lot acquired by a public body or an approved conservation organization, which may be used as a building lot(s), shall be considered an existing lot of record if the pre-existing lot was an existing lot of record and shall be considered a previous lot for the purpose of determining entitlement to additional severances if the pre-existing lot was a previous lot.

Recreation

Designated Recreation Areas are areas of existing or potential recreational development associated with the Escarpment. Such areas may include both seasonal and permanent residences.

1.8.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To minimize negative impacts of recreational development on the Escarpment environment.

1. To provide areas where new recreation and associated development can be concentrated around established, identified or approved downhill ski centres.

1. To provide areas where new recreation and associated development can be concentrated around established, identified or approved lakeshore residential areas in Grey and Bruce Counties.

1. To recognize the importance of the four-season recreation resort areas in the Town of the Blue Mountains to the tourism sector of Ontario’s economy.

1. To provide for the development of new ski centres or other recreational areas.

1. To ensure that recreational development protects and maintains community character, hydrologic and natural heritage features and functions, and the scenic resources of the Escarpment.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1.8.2 CRITERION FOR DESIGNATION

Established, identified or approved recreation areas (e.g., ski centres, lakeshore residential areas, and resort development areas).

1.8.3 PERMITTED USES

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Secondary dwelling units.

1. In ski centres, facilities such as ski runs, ski lifts, slide rides and toboggan runs that require the Escarpment slope.

1. Commercial development normally associated with a ski centre or a lakeshore residential area, such as marinas, lodges, retail stores and service establishments.

1. Golf courses.

1. Trail activities.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Billboards.

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot)

1. Accessory uses (e.g., garage, swimming pools, tennis courts, ponds or signs).

1. Infrastructure.

1.8.4 LOT CREATION

1.8.5 DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES

1. Development within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas.

1. Development within Recreation Areas should encourage reduced energy consumption, improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions (consistent with provincial reduction targets to 2030 and 2050) and working towards the long-term goals of lowcarbon communities, net-zero communities and increased resilience to climate change, through maximizing opportunities for the use of green infrastructure and appropriate low impact development.

1. New lots within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not be created if such lots encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas adjacent to the Urban Area.

1. Lots within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not be enlarged to encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas in order to provide more area for development.

1. Notwithstanding Objectives 3 and 4 above, new lots may include Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas designation under the following circumstances:
  - - a) correcting conveyances;
  - - b) where the land has, or is to be, acquired by a public body or an approved conservation organization; or
  - - c) enlarging existing lots, provided that no further fragmentation of the Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas adjacent to the Escarpment Recreation Area would result and that there is sufficient area within the Escarpment Recreation Area to accommodate development.

1. In ski centres and four-season recreational resort areas, development on prominent Escarpment slopes shall be limited to:
  - - a) recreational facilities, such as ski runs, ski lifts or slides that require the slope for the proper functioning of the operation;
  - - b) recreational uses, including walking or hiking trails (e.g., the Bruce Trail);
  - - c) accessory uses and accessory facilities, except for infrastructure, that are underground, localized in nature, and do not result in visual impacts, permanent loss of ground vegetation or trees, or permanent contour changes;
  - - d) accessory uses, and accessory facilities related to existing uses that have minimal negative impact on the Escarpment environment and maintain the open landscape character; and
  - - e) existing registered plans of subdivision or condominium.

1. In the Town of The Blue Mountains and the Municipality of Grey Highlands no additional development, including the creation of new lots, shall be permitted on the Escarpment slope above the contour identifying the toe of the Escarpment slope or the applicable property boundary deemed to be the toe of the Escarpment slope, except for those uses approved as part of the Town of The Blue Mountains Official Plan (as approved by the County of Grey on December 10, 2004), the Castle Glen Official Plan (dated October 23, 2006, and approved by the Ontario Municipal Board on December 4, 2006) or the Municipality of Grey Highlands Official Plan (as approved by the Ontario Municipal Board on September 29, 2003).

1. Lakeshore residential areas may extend inland to permit new development in a planned group provided that it does not encroach upon the Escarpment Natural Area or the Escarpment Protection Area designations and does not exceed approximately 200 metres in depth measured from the high water mark.

1. Within lakeshore residential areas, where proposed lots within a subdivision have no lake frontage, provision shall be made with the municipality (land or cash in lieu) prior to registration for public lake frontage to be part of or adjacent to the subdivision.

1. Growth and development in Escarpment Recreation Areas shall be compatible with and provide for:
  - - a) the protection of natural heritage features and functions;
  - - b) the protection of hydrologic features and functions;
  - - c) the protection of agricultural lands, including prime agricultural areas;
  - - d) the conservation of cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities;
  - - e) considerations for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improved resilience to the impacts of a changing climate;
  - - f) sustainable use of water resources for ecological and servicing needs; and compliance with the targets, criteria and recommendations of applicable water, wastewater and stormwater master plans, approved watershed planning and/or subwatershed plans in land use planning.

1. Recreational uses shall be designed to utilize existing site and topographical conditions. Minimum regrading, placement/excavation of fill and vegetation removal are allowed only if they are essential to the use and there are minimal negative impacts on the Escarpment environment.

1. Municipalities are encouraged to pass sign by-laws to ensure that community character, open landscape character and scenic resources of the Escarpment are maintained and enhanced.

1. Municipal sewer and water services will be the preferred form of servicing and, in the Town of The Blue Mountains, will be required in the Service Districts of Craigleith, Camperdown, Castle Glen, and Swiss Meadows, in accordance with the municipal official plan.

1.8.6 OFFICIAL PLANS, SECONDARY PLANS AND/OR BYLAWS

Minor Urban

This land use designation identifies those rural settlements, villages and hamlets that are distributed throughout the Niagara Escarpment Plan area.

1.6.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To recognize, maintain and enhance existing rural settlements or provide concentration points for development and growth in rural areas.

1. To ensure that cumulatively the existing Minor Urban Centres and any associated development and growth can be accommodated and serviced in a manner that would be environmentally sustainable over the long term.

1. To promote the co-location of compatible public services to address local community needs in convenient locations that are accessible by walking, cycling and public transit, where available.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To ensure that new development is compatible with the identity and traditional character of Minor Urban Centres.

1. To direct the growth of villages, hamlets, and settlement areas away from Escarpment Natural Areas and Escarpment Protection Areas into Escarpment Rural Areas in a logical manner with the least possible environmental and agricultural disruption.

1. To ensure that any growth will be in accordance with a municipal official plan and/or secondary plan that is not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.2 LIST OF MINOR URBAN CENTRES

The Minor Urban Centre designation includes the following list of villages and hamlets that are designated in local, regional or county official plans:

Additions to this list and the designations on Maps 1 to 9 require amendments to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.3 APPLICATION OF DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OBJECTIVES

1.6.4 BOUNDARIES

1.6.5 PERMITTED USES AND LOT CREATION

1.6.6 AMENDMENTS TO MUNICIPAL PLANS AND/ OR SECONDARY PLANS

1.6.7 LAND USE CONTROL

By-laws or by-law amendments must not conflict with the Objectives and Development and Growth Objectives of this designation, and the Development Criteria in Part 2 of the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.8 DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OBJECTIVES

1. Development and growth, including the creation of new lots, shall not extend into the Escarpment Natural Areas.

1. The Escarpment Natural Area designation and its policies must be incorporated into the official plan/secondary plan or development proposal.

1. Development and growth should avoid Escarpment Protection Areas and be directed to Escarpment Rural Areas in a manner consistent with Escarpment Rural Area Objectives and Part 2, the Development Criteria of this Plan.

1. Development and growth should be limited to minimize land use conflicts (e.g., with agriculture) and all development should be of a design compatible with the scenic resources of the Escarpment. Where appropriate, provision for adequate setbacks, and maximum heights for buildings, structures and screening shall be required to minimize the visual impact of development, consistent with any applicable provincial guidance.

1. Development within Minor Urban Centres should encourage reduced energy consumption, improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions (consistent with provincial reduction targets to 2030 and 2050) and work towards the long-term goals of low carbon communities, net-zero communities and increased resilience to climate change, through maximizing opportunities for the use of green infrastructure and appropriate low impact development.

1. Development and growth should be minor only, relative to the size and capacity of the settlement to absorb new growth, so that the community character is maintained.

1. Development and growth should take place as a logical extension of existing development in the form of planned groups, rather than linear or scattered development. Expansion in depth, rather than extension along existing roads, is favoured.

1. Limited infilling may be permitted in the built-up portions of Minor Urban Centres that do not have an approved official plan and/or secondary plan.

1. Growth and development in Minor Urban Centres shall be compatible with and provide for:
  - - a) the protection of natural heritage features and functions;
  - - b) the protection of hydrologic features and functions;
  - - c) the protection of agricultural lands, including prime agricultural areas;
  - - d) the conservation of cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Metis communities;
  - - e) considerations for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improved resilience to the impacts of a changing climate;
  - - f) sustainable use of water resources for ecological and servicing needs; and First Nation and Métis communities;
  - - g) compliance with the targets, criteria and recommendations of applicable water, wastewater and stormwater master plans, approved watershed planning and/or subwatershed plan in land use planning.

1. Municipal sewage and water services will be the preferred form of servicing. Where municipal sewage services and municipal water services are not provided, the use of private communal sewage services and private communal water services may be permitted. Individual on-site sewage services and individual on-site water services may only be permitted where municipal or private communal services are not available.

1. Adequate public access to the Escarpment should be provided by such means as parking areas, walkways or pedestrian trails (e.g., the Bruce Trail).

1. Development and growth should be compatible with adjacent existing Mineral Resource Extraction Area designations and, where appropriate, incorporate methods of minimizing land use conflicts (e.g., staging, site design, berming).

Municipalities are encouraged to pass sign by-laws to ensure that the cultural heritage resources, attractive streetscapes and scenic resources of Minor Urban Centres are conserved.

Mineral Extraction

1.9.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To designate Mineral Resource Extraction Areas where licensed mineral aggregate operations are permitted.

1. To minimize the impact of mineral aggregate operations on the Escarpment environment.

1. To encourage progressive rehabilitation of mineral aggregate operations.

1. To encourage rehabilitated mineral aggregate operations to be restored to a state that is of equal or greater ecological or agricultural value than the original characteristics of the site.

1. To ensure that, after a licence is surrendered, the land is re-designated to a land use designation that is compatible with the rehabilitation of the site, the designation criteria of adjacent lands, the surrounding Escarpment environment and existing land uses in the area.

1. To encourage, where possible, the integration of rehabilitated lands into the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System.

1.9.2 CRITERION FOR DESIGNATION

Licensed pits and quarries producing more than 20,000 tonnes annually.

1.9.3 PERMITTED USES

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Existing uses.

1. Mineral aggregate operations licensed pursuant to the Aggregate Resources Act but not including associated facilities unless they are permitted as an accessory use.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Recreational uses.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Watershed management, and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. Accessory uses normally associated with the mineral aggregate operation, such as temporary offices serving the subject site, signage, crushing and washing facilities, or facilities for recycling and re- processing of mineral aggregate resources. Asphalt plants, concrete plants, brick manufacturing plants and other similar manufacturing uses shall not be permitted.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space Master/Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges and boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Policy expired.

1.9.4 LOT CREATION

1. Any new lot created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area shall require an amendment to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.9.4.1 and as provided for in Part 2.4.12 of this Plan, a new lot may be created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area by a NEPOSS agency or approved conservation organization specifically for the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System or for the establishment of a nature preserve, provided there is not more than one remnant lot.

1.9.5 AFTER USES

To maintain and enhance the scenic resources and open landscape character of the Escarpment.

1.3.2 CRITERIA FOR DESIGNATION

1. Escarpment slopes and Escarpment Related Landforms associated with the underlying bedrock that are in a relatively natural state.

1. Where woodlands abut the Escarpment, the designation includes the woodlands 300 metres back from the brow of the Escarpment slopes.

1. Provincially significant Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (Life Science).

Significant valleylands, provincially significant wetlands and wetlands greater than 20 hectares in size.

1.3.3 PERMITTED USES

Here are some common permitted uses in Escarpment Natural Area, subject to Part 2, Development Criteria:

1. Existing uses (for greater certainty, includes existing agricultural uses, existing agriculture-related uses and existing on-farm diversified uses).

1. Single dwellings.

1. Non-motorized trail activities, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Unserviced camping on public and institutional land, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Accessory uses (e.g., garage, swimming pools, tennis courts or signs), except for ponds.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Home occupations.

1. Essential watershed management and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Bed and breakfast.

Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1.3.4 LOT CREATION

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot, from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there have been no previous lots severed from one of the affected original township lots or original township half lots. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.3.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or
  - - d) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. In the Town Plot of Brooke, Grey County, a lot may be created by severing one of the original Town Plot lots from another, provided there have been no previous lots severed from one of the affected Town Plot lots. Such severances shall only occur along the original Town Plot lines.

A lot created by a public body (e.g., for a road or park) or by an approved conservation organization for a nature preserve will not be considered a previous lot. A remnant lot(s) created as a result of a lot acquired by a public body, or an approved conservation organization, which may be used as a building lot(s) shall be considered an existing lot of record if the pre-existing lot was an existing lot of record and will be considered a previous lot for the purpose of determining entitlement to further severances if the pre-existing lot was a previous lot.

Protection

The policies aim to protect and enhance natural and hydrologic features and the open landscape character of the Escarpment and lands in its vicinity.

1.4.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To maintain and enhance the scenic resources and open landscape character of the Escarpment.

1. To provide a buffer to prominent Escarpment features.

1. To recognize, protect and where possible enhance the natural heritage system associated with the Niagara Escarpment Plan area and protect natural areas of regional significance.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features and areas of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To encourage forest management, compatible recreation, conservation and educational activities.

To encourage agriculture and protect agricultural lands and prime agricultural areas.

1.4.2 CRITERIA FOR DESIGNATION

1. Escarpment slopes and Escarpment Related Landforms where existing land uses have significantly altered the natural environment (e.g., agricultural lands or residential development).

1. Areas in close proximity to Escarpment slopes that are visually part of the landscape unit.

Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (Life Science), or environmentally sensitive or environmentally significant areas identified by municipalities or conservation authorities.

1.4.3 PERMITTED USES

Common uses permitted under Escarpment Protection lands, subject to Part 2, Development Criteria, included:

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses, in prime agricultural areas.

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Mobile or portable dwelling unit(s) accessory to agriculture.

1. Non-motorized trail activities and snowmobiling, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Unserviced camping on public and institutional land, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Accessory uses (e.g., a garage, swimming pool, tennis court, ponds or signs).

1. Institutional uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Home occupations and home industries.

1. Watershed management and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Recycling depots for paper, glass and cans etc., serving the local community.

1. Bed and breakfast.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot).

1.4.4 LOT CREATION

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot, from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there have been no previous lots severed from one of the affected original township lots or original township half lots. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.4.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. New lots may be created for agricultural uses, provided both the severed and remnant lots are of sufficient size to remain useful for agricultural purposes, and such lots are not less than 16 hectares in a specialty crop area or 40 hectares in any other prime agricultural area. These new lots shall only be permitted in municipalities where the official plan has identified specialty crop areas and/or prime agricultural areas.

New lots may be created for agriculture-related uses, provided that any new lot is limited to the minimum size needed to accommodate the use. A lot created for an agriculture-related use shall not be used for residential purposes.

Rural

1.5.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To maintain the scenic resources of lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment and the open landscape character of the Escarpment.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To encourage forest management and recreation.

1. To provide for compatible rural land uses.

1. To encourage agriculture and protect agricultural lands and prime agricultural areas.

1. To provide a buffer for ecologically sensitive areas of the Escarpment.

To provide for the consideration of new Mineral Resource Extraction Areas which can be accommodated by an amendment to this Plan.

1.5.2 CRITERIA FOR DESIGNATION

1. Minor Escarpment slopes and Escarpment Related Landforms.

1. Lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment necessary to provide an open landscape character.

1. Lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment which are of ecological importance to the Escarpment environment.

1. Lands that have potential for enhanced ecological values through natural succession processes or due to their proximity to other ecologically sensitive lands, areas or features.

1.5.3 PERMITTED USES

Subject to Part 2, Development Criteria, the following are some common uses for Escarpment Rural lands:

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Secondary dwelling units.

1. Mobile or portable dwelling unit(s) accessory to agriculture.

1. Recreational uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Accessory uses (e.g., a garage, swimming pools, tennis courts, ponds, or signs).

1. Institutional uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Home occupations and home industries.

1. Watershed management and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. New licensed mineral aggregate operations producing up to 20,000 tonnes annually.

1. Wayside pits and quarries.

1. Recycling depots for paper, glass and cans etc., serving the local community.

1. Bed and breakfast.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot).

1.5.4 LOT CREATION

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there has been no more than one previous lot severed from one of the affected original township lot or original township half lot. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.5.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or
  - - d) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. New lots may be created for agricultural uses, provided both the severed and remnant lots are of sufficient size to remain useful for agricultural purposes, and such lots are not less than 16 hectares in a specialty crop area or 40 hectares in any other prime agricultural area. These new lots shall only be permitted in municipalities where the official plan has identified specialty crop areas and/or prime agriculture areas.

1. New lots may be created for agriculture-related uses, provided that any new lot is limited to the minimum size needed to accommodate the use. A lot created for an agriculture-related use shall not be used for residential purposes.

1. Provided no lots have been created in the past from the original township lot, or original township half lot, where the original township lot is 80 hectares or more, and where the proposed lot is not in conflict with the Agricultural Policies of the Provincial Policy Statement, one lot may be severed for a permitted use.

1. No new lots are permitted where one or more lots have been severed from the original township lot, or original township half lot, where the original township lot is 80 hectares or more.

1. The severance of a lot with a residence that has been rendered surplus to an agricultural operation as a result of a farm consolidation is permitted, subject to the policies found in Section 2.4 and Section 2.8 of this Plan that apply to such a severance and the associated APO lot created by this severance.

A lot created by a public body (e.g., for a road or park) or by an approved conservation organization for a nature preserve will not be considered a previous lot. A remnant lot(s) created as a result of a lot acquired by a public body or an approved conservation organization, which may be used as a building lot(s), shall be considered an existing lot of record if the pre-existing lot was an existing lot of record and shall be considered a previous lot for the purpose of determining entitlement to additional severances if the pre-existing lot was a previous lot.

Recreation

Designated Recreation Areas are areas of existing or potential recreational development associated with the Escarpment. Such areas may include both seasonal and permanent residences.

1.8.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To minimize negative impacts of recreational development on the Escarpment environment.

1. To provide areas where new recreation and associated development can be concentrated around established, identified or approved downhill ski centres.

1. To provide areas where new recreation and associated development can be concentrated around established, identified or approved lakeshore residential areas in Grey and Bruce Counties.

1. To recognize the importance of the four-season recreation resort areas in the Town of the Blue Mountains to the tourism sector of Ontario’s economy.

1. To provide for the development of new ski centres or other recreational areas.

1. To ensure that recreational development protects and maintains community character, hydrologic and natural heritage features and functions, and the scenic resources of the Escarpment.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1.8.2 CRITERION FOR DESIGNATION

Established, identified or approved recreation areas (e.g., ski centres, lakeshore residential areas, and resort development areas).

1.8.3 PERMITTED USES

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Secondary dwelling units.

1. In ski centres, facilities such as ski runs, ski lifts, slide rides and toboggan runs that require the Escarpment slope.

1. Commercial development normally associated with a ski centre or a lakeshore residential area, such as marinas, lodges, retail stores and service establishments.

1. Golf courses.

1. Trail activities.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Billboards.

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot)

1. Accessory uses (e.g., garage, swimming pools, tennis courts, ponds or signs).

1. Infrastructure.

1.8.4 LOT CREATION

1.8.5 DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES

1. Development within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas.

1. Development within Recreation Areas should encourage reduced energy consumption, improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions (consistent with provincial reduction targets to 2030 and 2050) and working towards the long-term goals of lowcarbon communities, net-zero communities and increased resilience to climate change, through maximizing opportunities for the use of green infrastructure and appropriate low impact development.

1. New lots within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not be created if such lots encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas adjacent to the Urban Area.

1. Lots within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not be enlarged to encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas in order to provide more area for development.

1. Notwithstanding Objectives 3 and 4 above, new lots may include Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas designation under the following circumstances:
  - - a) correcting conveyances;
  - - b) where the land has, or is to be, acquired by a public body or an approved conservation organization; or
  - - c) enlarging existing lots, provided that no further fragmentation of the Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas adjacent to the Escarpment Recreation Area would result and that there is sufficient area within the Escarpment Recreation Area to accommodate development.

1. In ski centres and four-season recreational resort areas, development on prominent Escarpment slopes shall be limited to:
  - - a) recreational facilities, such as ski runs, ski lifts or slides that require the slope for the proper functioning of the operation;
  - - b) recreational uses, including walking or hiking trails (e.g., the Bruce Trail);
  - - c) accessory uses and accessory facilities, except for infrastructure, that are underground, localized in nature, and do not result in visual impacts, permanent loss of ground vegetation or trees, or permanent contour changes;
  - - d) accessory uses, and accessory facilities related to existing uses that have minimal negative impact on the Escarpment environment and maintain the open landscape character; and
  - - e) existing registered plans of subdivision or condominium.

1. In the Town of The Blue Mountains and the Municipality of Grey Highlands no additional development, including the creation of new lots, shall be permitted on the Escarpment slope above the contour identifying the toe of the Escarpment slope or the applicable property boundary deemed to be the toe of the Escarpment slope, except for those uses approved as part of the Town of The Blue Mountains Official Plan (as approved by the County of Grey on December 10, 2004), the Castle Glen Official Plan (dated October 23, 2006, and approved by the Ontario Municipal Board on December 4, 2006) or the Municipality of Grey Highlands Official Plan (as approved by the Ontario Municipal Board on September 29, 2003).

1. Lakeshore residential areas may extend inland to permit new development in a planned group provided that it does not encroach upon the Escarpment Natural Area or the Escarpment Protection Area designations and does not exceed approximately 200 metres in depth measured from the high water mark.

1. Within lakeshore residential areas, where proposed lots within a subdivision have no lake frontage, provision shall be made with the municipality (land or cash in lieu) prior to registration for public lake frontage to be part of or adjacent to the subdivision.

1. Growth and development in Escarpment Recreation Areas shall be compatible with and provide for:
  - - a) the protection of natural heritage features and functions;
  - - b) the protection of hydrologic features and functions;
  - - c) the protection of agricultural lands, including prime agricultural areas;
  - - d) the conservation of cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities;
  - - e) considerations for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improved resilience to the impacts of a changing climate;
  - - f) sustainable use of water resources for ecological and servicing needs; and compliance with the targets, criteria and recommendations of applicable water, wastewater and stormwater master plans, approved watershed planning and/or subwatershed plans in land use planning.

1. Recreational uses shall be designed to utilize existing site and topographical conditions. Minimum regrading, placement/excavation of fill and vegetation removal are allowed only if they are essential to the use and there are minimal negative impacts on the Escarpment environment.

1. Municipalities are encouraged to pass sign by-laws to ensure that community character, open landscape character and scenic resources of the Escarpment are maintained and enhanced.

1. Municipal sewer and water services will be the preferred form of servicing and, in the Town of The Blue Mountains, will be required in the Service Districts of Craigleith, Camperdown, Castle Glen, and Swiss Meadows, in accordance with the municipal official plan.

1.8.6 OFFICIAL PLANS, SECONDARY PLANS AND/OR BYLAWS

Minor Urban

This land use designation identifies those rural settlements, villages and hamlets that are distributed throughout the Niagara Escarpment Plan area.

1.6.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To recognize, maintain and enhance existing rural settlements or provide concentration points for development and growth in rural areas.

1. To ensure that cumulatively the existing Minor Urban Centres and any associated development and growth can be accommodated and serviced in a manner that would be environmentally sustainable over the long term.

1. To promote the co-location of compatible public services to address local community needs in convenient locations that are accessible by walking, cycling and public transit, where available.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To ensure that new development is compatible with the identity and traditional character of Minor Urban Centres.

1. To direct the growth of villages, hamlets, and settlement areas away from Escarpment Natural Areas and Escarpment Protection Areas into Escarpment Rural Areas in a logical manner with the least possible environmental and agricultural disruption.

1. To ensure that any growth will be in accordance with a municipal official plan and/or secondary plan that is not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.2 LIST OF MINOR URBAN CENTRES

The Minor Urban Centre designation includes the following list of villages and hamlets that are designated in local, regional or county official plans:

Additions to this list and the designations on Maps 1 to 9 require amendments to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.3 APPLICATION OF DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OBJECTIVES

1.6.4 BOUNDARIES

1.6.5 PERMITTED USES AND LOT CREATION

1.6.6 AMENDMENTS TO MUNICIPAL PLANS AND/ OR SECONDARY PLANS

1.6.7 LAND USE CONTROL

By-laws or by-law amendments must not conflict with the Objectives and Development and Growth Objectives of this designation, and the Development Criteria in Part 2 of the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.8 DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OBJECTIVES

1. Development and growth, including the creation of new lots, shall not extend into the Escarpment Natural Areas.

1. The Escarpment Natural Area designation and its policies must be incorporated into the official plan/secondary plan or development proposal.

1. Development and growth should avoid Escarpment Protection Areas and be directed to Escarpment Rural Areas in a manner consistent with Escarpment Rural Area Objectives and Part 2, the Development Criteria of this Plan.

1. Development and growth should be limited to minimize land use conflicts (e.g., with agriculture) and all development should be of a design compatible with the scenic resources of the Escarpment. Where appropriate, provision for adequate setbacks, and maximum heights for buildings, structures and screening shall be required to minimize the visual impact of development, consistent with any applicable provincial guidance.

1. Development within Minor Urban Centres should encourage reduced energy consumption, improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions (consistent with provincial reduction targets to 2030 and 2050) and work towards the long-term goals of low carbon communities, net-zero communities and increased resilience to climate change, through maximizing opportunities for the use of green infrastructure and appropriate low impact development.

1. Development and growth should be minor only, relative to the size and capacity of the settlement to absorb new growth, so that the community character is maintained.

1. Development and growth should take place as a logical extension of existing development in the form of planned groups, rather than linear or scattered development. Expansion in depth, rather than extension along existing roads, is favoured.

1. Limited infilling may be permitted in the built-up portions of Minor Urban Centres that do not have an approved official plan and/or secondary plan.

1. Growth and development in Minor Urban Centres shall be compatible with and provide for:
  - - a) the protection of natural heritage features and functions;
  - - b) the protection of hydrologic features and functions;
  - - c) the protection of agricultural lands, including prime agricultural areas;
  - - d) the conservation of cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Metis communities;
  - - e) considerations for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improved resilience to the impacts of a changing climate;
  - - f) sustainable use of water resources for ecological and servicing needs; and First Nation and Métis communities;
  - - g) compliance with the targets, criteria and recommendations of applicable water, wastewater and stormwater master plans, approved watershed planning and/or subwatershed plan in land use planning.

1. Municipal sewage and water services will be the preferred form of servicing. Where municipal sewage services and municipal water services are not provided, the use of private communal sewage services and private communal water services may be permitted. Individual on-site sewage services and individual on-site water services may only be permitted where municipal or private communal services are not available.

1. Adequate public access to the Escarpment should be provided by such means as parking areas, walkways or pedestrian trails (e.g., the Bruce Trail).

1. Development and growth should be compatible with adjacent existing Mineral Resource Extraction Area designations and, where appropriate, incorporate methods of minimizing land use conflicts (e.g., staging, site design, berming).

Municipalities are encouraged to pass sign by-laws to ensure that the cultural heritage resources, attractive streetscapes and scenic resources of Minor Urban Centres are conserved.

Mineral Extraction

1.9.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To designate Mineral Resource Extraction Areas where licensed mineral aggregate operations are permitted.

1. To minimize the impact of mineral aggregate operations on the Escarpment environment.

1. To encourage progressive rehabilitation of mineral aggregate operations.

1. To encourage rehabilitated mineral aggregate operations to be restored to a state that is of equal or greater ecological or agricultural value than the original characteristics of the site.

1. To ensure that, after a licence is surrendered, the land is re-designated to a land use designation that is compatible with the rehabilitation of the site, the designation criteria of adjacent lands, the surrounding Escarpment environment and existing land uses in the area.

1. To encourage, where possible, the integration of rehabilitated lands into the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System.

1.9.2 CRITERION FOR DESIGNATION

Licensed pits and quarries producing more than 20,000 tonnes annually.

1.9.3 PERMITTED USES

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Existing uses.

1. Mineral aggregate operations licensed pursuant to the Aggregate Resources Act but not including associated facilities unless they are permitted as an accessory use.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Recreational uses.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Watershed management, and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. Accessory uses normally associated with the mineral aggregate operation, such as temporary offices serving the subject site, signage, crushing and washing facilities, or facilities for recycling and re- processing of mineral aggregate resources. Asphalt plants, concrete plants, brick manufacturing plants and other similar manufacturing uses shall not be permitted.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space Master/Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges and boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Policy expired.

1.9.4 LOT CREATION

1. Any new lot created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area shall require an amendment to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.9.4.1 and as provided for in Part 2.4.12 of this Plan, a new lot may be created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area by a NEPOSS agency or approved conservation organization specifically for the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System or for the establishment of a nature preserve, provided there is not more than one remnant lot.

1.9.5 AFTER USES

To maintain and enhance the scenic resources and open landscape character of the Escarpment.

1.3.2 CRITERIA FOR DESIGNATION

1. Escarpment slopes and Escarpment Related Landforms associated with the underlying bedrock that are in a relatively natural state.

1. Where woodlands abut the Escarpment, the designation includes the woodlands 300 metres back from the brow of the Escarpment slopes.

1. Provincially significant Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (Life Science).

Significant valleylands, provincially significant wetlands and wetlands greater than 20 hectares in size.

1.3.3 PERMITTED USES

Here are some common permitted uses in Escarpment Natural Area, subject to Part 2, Development Criteria:

1. Existing uses (for greater certainty, includes existing agricultural uses, existing agriculture-related uses and existing on-farm diversified uses).

1. Single dwellings.

1. Non-motorized trail activities, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Unserviced camping on public and institutional land, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Accessory uses (e.g., garage, swimming pools, tennis courts or signs), except for ponds.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Home occupations.

1. Essential watershed management and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Bed and breakfast.

Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1.3.4 LOT CREATION

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot, from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there have been no previous lots severed from one of the affected original township lots or original township half lots. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.3.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or
  - - d) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. In the Town Plot of Brooke, Grey County, a lot may be created by severing one of the original Town Plot lots from another, provided there have been no previous lots severed from one of the affected Town Plot lots. Such severances shall only occur along the original Town Plot lines.

A lot created by a public body (e.g., for a road or park) or by an approved conservation organization for a nature preserve will not be considered a previous lot. A remnant lot(s) created as a result of a lot acquired by a public body, or an approved conservation organization, which may be used as a building lot(s) shall be considered an existing lot of record if the pre-existing lot was an existing lot of record and will be considered a previous lot for the purpose of determining entitlement to further severances if the pre-existing lot was a previous lot.

Protection

The policies aim to protect and enhance natural and hydrologic features and the open landscape character of the Escarpment and lands in its vicinity.

1.4.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To maintain and enhance the scenic resources and open landscape character of the Escarpment.

1. To provide a buffer to prominent Escarpment features.

1. To recognize, protect and where possible enhance the natural heritage system associated with the Niagara Escarpment Plan area and protect natural areas of regional significance.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features and areas of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To encourage forest management, compatible recreation, conservation and educational activities.

To encourage agriculture and protect agricultural lands and prime agricultural areas.

1.4.2 CRITERIA FOR DESIGNATION

1. Escarpment slopes and Escarpment Related Landforms where existing land uses have significantly altered the natural environment (e.g., agricultural lands or residential development).

1. Areas in close proximity to Escarpment slopes that are visually part of the landscape unit.

Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (Life Science), or environmentally sensitive or environmentally significant areas identified by municipalities or conservation authorities.

1.4.3 PERMITTED USES

Common uses permitted under Escarpment Protection lands, subject to Part 2, Development Criteria, included:

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses, in prime agricultural areas.

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Mobile or portable dwelling unit(s) accessory to agriculture.

1. Non-motorized trail activities and snowmobiling, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Unserviced camping on public and institutional land, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Accessory uses (e.g., a garage, swimming pool, tennis court, ponds or signs).

1. Institutional uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Home occupations and home industries.

1. Watershed management and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Recycling depots for paper, glass and cans etc., serving the local community.

1. Bed and breakfast.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot).

1.4.4 LOT CREATION

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot, from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there have been no previous lots severed from one of the affected original township lots or original township half lots. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.4.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. New lots may be created for agricultural uses, provided both the severed and remnant lots are of sufficient size to remain useful for agricultural purposes, and such lots are not less than 16 hectares in a specialty crop area or 40 hectares in any other prime agricultural area. These new lots shall only be permitted in municipalities where the official plan has identified specialty crop areas and/or prime agricultural areas.

New lots may be created for agriculture-related uses, provided that any new lot is limited to the minimum size needed to accommodate the use. A lot created for an agriculture-related use shall not be used for residential purposes.

Rural

1.5.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To maintain the scenic resources of lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment and the open landscape character of the Escarpment.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To encourage forest management and recreation.

1. To provide for compatible rural land uses.

1. To encourage agriculture and protect agricultural lands and prime agricultural areas.

1. To provide a buffer for ecologically sensitive areas of the Escarpment.

To provide for the consideration of new Mineral Resource Extraction Areas which can be accommodated by an amendment to this Plan.

1.5.2 CRITERIA FOR DESIGNATION

1. Minor Escarpment slopes and Escarpment Related Landforms.

1. Lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment necessary to provide an open landscape character.

1. Lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment which are of ecological importance to the Escarpment environment.

1. Lands that have potential for enhanced ecological values through natural succession processes or due to their proximity to other ecologically sensitive lands, areas or features.

1.5.3 PERMITTED USES

Subject to Part 2, Development Criteria, the following are some common uses for Escarpment Rural lands:

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Secondary dwelling units.

1. Mobile or portable dwelling unit(s) accessory to agriculture.

1. Recreational uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Accessory uses (e.g., a garage, swimming pools, tennis courts, ponds, or signs).

1. Institutional uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Home occupations and home industries.

1. Watershed management and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. New licensed mineral aggregate operations producing up to 20,000 tonnes annually.

1. Wayside pits and quarries.

1. Recycling depots for paper, glass and cans etc., serving the local community.

1. Bed and breakfast.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot).

1.5.4 LOT CREATION

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there has been no more than one previous lot severed from one of the affected original township lot or original township half lot. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.5.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or
  - - d) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. New lots may be created for agricultural uses, provided both the severed and remnant lots are of sufficient size to remain useful for agricultural purposes, and such lots are not less than 16 hectares in a specialty crop area or 40 hectares in any other prime agricultural area. These new lots shall only be permitted in municipalities where the official plan has identified specialty crop areas and/or prime agriculture areas.

1. New lots may be created for agriculture-related uses, provided that any new lot is limited to the minimum size needed to accommodate the use. A lot created for an agriculture-related use shall not be used for residential purposes.

1. Provided no lots have been created in the past from the original township lot, or original township half lot, where the original township lot is 80 hectares or more, and where the proposed lot is not in conflict with the Agricultural Policies of the Provincial Policy Statement, one lot may be severed for a permitted use.

1. No new lots are permitted where one or more lots have been severed from the original township lot, or original township half lot, where the original township lot is 80 hectares or more.

1. The severance of a lot with a residence that has been rendered surplus to an agricultural operation as a result of a farm consolidation is permitted, subject to the policies found in Section 2.4 and Section 2.8 of this Plan that apply to such a severance and the associated APO lot created by this severance.

A lot created by a public body (e.g., for a road or park) or by an approved conservation organization for a nature preserve will not be considered a previous lot. A remnant lot(s) created as a result of a lot acquired by a public body or an approved conservation organization, which may be used as a building lot(s), shall be considered an existing lot of record if the pre-existing lot was an existing lot of record and shall be considered a previous lot for the purpose of determining entitlement to additional severances if the pre-existing lot was a previous lot.

Recreation

Designated Recreation Areas are areas of existing or potential recreational development associated with the Escarpment. Such areas may include both seasonal and permanent residences.

1.8.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To minimize negative impacts of recreational development on the Escarpment environment.

1. To provide areas where new recreation and associated development can be concentrated around established, identified or approved downhill ski centres.

1. To provide areas where new recreation and associated development can be concentrated around established, identified or approved lakeshore residential areas in Grey and Bruce Counties.

1. To recognize the importance of the four-season recreation resort areas in the Town of the Blue Mountains to the tourism sector of Ontario’s economy.

1. To provide for the development of new ski centres or other recreational areas.

1. To ensure that recreational development protects and maintains community character, hydrologic and natural heritage features and functions, and the scenic resources of the Escarpment.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1.8.2 CRITERION FOR DESIGNATION

Established, identified or approved recreation areas (e.g., ski centres, lakeshore residential areas, and resort development areas).

1.8.3 PERMITTED USES

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Secondary dwelling units.

1. In ski centres, facilities such as ski runs, ski lifts, slide rides and toboggan runs that require the Escarpment slope.

1. Commercial development normally associated with a ski centre or a lakeshore residential area, such as marinas, lodges, retail stores and service establishments.

1. Golf courses.

1. Trail activities.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Billboards.

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot)

1. Accessory uses (e.g., garage, swimming pools, tennis courts, ponds or signs).

1. Infrastructure.

1.8.4 LOT CREATION

1.8.5 DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES

1. Development within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas.

1. Development within Recreation Areas should encourage reduced energy consumption, improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions (consistent with provincial reduction targets to 2030 and 2050) and working towards the long-term goals of lowcarbon communities, net-zero communities and increased resilience to climate change, through maximizing opportunities for the use of green infrastructure and appropriate low impact development.

1. New lots within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not be created if such lots encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas adjacent to the Urban Area.

1. Lots within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not be enlarged to encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas in order to provide more area for development.

1. Notwithstanding Objectives 3 and 4 above, new lots may include Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas designation under the following circumstances:
  - - a) correcting conveyances;
  - - b) where the land has, or is to be, acquired by a public body or an approved conservation organization; or
  - - c) enlarging existing lots, provided that no further fragmentation of the Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas adjacent to the Escarpment Recreation Area would result and that there is sufficient area within the Escarpment Recreation Area to accommodate development.

1. In ski centres and four-season recreational resort areas, development on prominent Escarpment slopes shall be limited to:
  - - a) recreational facilities, such as ski runs, ski lifts or slides that require the slope for the proper functioning of the operation;
  - - b) recreational uses, including walking or hiking trails (e.g., the Bruce Trail);
  - - c) accessory uses and accessory facilities, except for infrastructure, that are underground, localized in nature, and do not result in visual impacts, permanent loss of ground vegetation or trees, or permanent contour changes;
  - - d) accessory uses, and accessory facilities related to existing uses that have minimal negative impact on the Escarpment environment and maintain the open landscape character; and
  - - e) existing registered plans of subdivision or condominium.

1. In the Town of The Blue Mountains and the Municipality of Grey Highlands no additional development, including the creation of new lots, shall be permitted on the Escarpment slope above the contour identifying the toe of the Escarpment slope or the applicable property boundary deemed to be the toe of the Escarpment slope, except for those uses approved as part of the Town of The Blue Mountains Official Plan (as approved by the County of Grey on December 10, 2004), the Castle Glen Official Plan (dated October 23, 2006, and approved by the Ontario Municipal Board on December 4, 2006) or the Municipality of Grey Highlands Official Plan (as approved by the Ontario Municipal Board on September 29, 2003).

1. Lakeshore residential areas may extend inland to permit new development in a planned group provided that it does not encroach upon the Escarpment Natural Area or the Escarpment Protection Area designations and does not exceed approximately 200 metres in depth measured from the high water mark.

1. Within lakeshore residential areas, where proposed lots within a subdivision have no lake frontage, provision shall be made with the municipality (land or cash in lieu) prior to registration for public lake frontage to be part of or adjacent to the subdivision.

1. Growth and development in Escarpment Recreation Areas shall be compatible with and provide for:
  - - a) the protection of natural heritage features and functions;
  - - b) the protection of hydrologic features and functions;
  - - c) the protection of agricultural lands, including prime agricultural areas;
  - - d) the conservation of cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities;
  - - e) considerations for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improved resilience to the impacts of a changing climate;
  - - f) sustainable use of water resources for ecological and servicing needs; and compliance with the targets, criteria and recommendations of applicable water, wastewater and stormwater master plans, approved watershed planning and/or subwatershed plans in land use planning.

1. Recreational uses shall be designed to utilize existing site and topographical conditions. Minimum regrading, placement/excavation of fill and vegetation removal are allowed only if they are essential to the use and there are minimal negative impacts on the Escarpment environment.

1. Municipalities are encouraged to pass sign by-laws to ensure that community character, open landscape character and scenic resources of the Escarpment are maintained and enhanced.

1. Municipal sewer and water services will be the preferred form of servicing and, in the Town of The Blue Mountains, will be required in the Service Districts of Craigleith, Camperdown, Castle Glen, and Swiss Meadows, in accordance with the municipal official plan.

1.8.6 OFFICIAL PLANS, SECONDARY PLANS AND/OR BYLAWS

Minor Urban

This land use designation identifies those rural settlements, villages and hamlets that are distributed throughout the Niagara Escarpment Plan area.

1.6.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To recognize, maintain and enhance existing rural settlements or provide concentration points for development and growth in rural areas.

1. To ensure that cumulatively the existing Minor Urban Centres and any associated development and growth can be accommodated and serviced in a manner that would be environmentally sustainable over the long term.

1. To promote the co-location of compatible public services to address local community needs in convenient locations that are accessible by walking, cycling and public transit, where available.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To ensure that new development is compatible with the identity and traditional character of Minor Urban Centres.

1. To direct the growth of villages, hamlets, and settlement areas away from Escarpment Natural Areas and Escarpment Protection Areas into Escarpment Rural Areas in a logical manner with the least possible environmental and agricultural disruption.

1. To ensure that any growth will be in accordance with a municipal official plan and/or secondary plan that is not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.2 LIST OF MINOR URBAN CENTRES

The Minor Urban Centre designation includes the following list of villages and hamlets that are designated in local, regional or county official plans:

Additions to this list and the designations on Maps 1 to 9 require amendments to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.3 APPLICATION OF DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OBJECTIVES

1.6.4 BOUNDARIES

1.6.5 PERMITTED USES AND LOT CREATION

1.6.6 AMENDMENTS TO MUNICIPAL PLANS AND/ OR SECONDARY PLANS

1.6.7 LAND USE CONTROL

By-laws or by-law amendments must not conflict with the Objectives and Development and Growth Objectives of this designation, and the Development Criteria in Part 2 of the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.8 DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OBJECTIVES

1. Development and growth, including the creation of new lots, shall not extend into the Escarpment Natural Areas.

1. The Escarpment Natural Area designation and its policies must be incorporated into the official plan/secondary plan or development proposal.

1. Development and growth should avoid Escarpment Protection Areas and be directed to Escarpment Rural Areas in a manner consistent with Escarpment Rural Area Objectives and Part 2, the Development Criteria of this Plan.

1. Development and growth should be limited to minimize land use conflicts (e.g., with agriculture) and all development should be of a design compatible with the scenic resources of the Escarpment. Where appropriate, provision for adequate setbacks, and maximum heights for buildings, structures and screening shall be required to minimize the visual impact of development, consistent with any applicable provincial guidance.

1. Development within Minor Urban Centres should encourage reduced energy consumption, improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions (consistent with provincial reduction targets to 2030 and 2050) and work towards the long-term goals of low carbon communities, net-zero communities and increased resilience to climate change, through maximizing opportunities for the use of green infrastructure and appropriate low impact development.

1. Development and growth should be minor only, relative to the size and capacity of the settlement to absorb new growth, so that the community character is maintained.

1. Development and growth should take place as a logical extension of existing development in the form of planned groups, rather than linear or scattered development. Expansion in depth, rather than extension along existing roads, is favoured.

1. Limited infilling may be permitted in the built-up portions of Minor Urban Centres that do not have an approved official plan and/or secondary plan.

1. Growth and development in Minor Urban Centres shall be compatible with and provide for:
  - - a) the protection of natural heritage features and functions;
  - - b) the protection of hydrologic features and functions;
  - - c) the protection of agricultural lands, including prime agricultural areas;
  - - d) the conservation of cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Metis communities;
  - - e) considerations for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improved resilience to the impacts of a changing climate;
  - - f) sustainable use of water resources for ecological and servicing needs; and First Nation and Métis communities;
  - - g) compliance with the targets, criteria and recommendations of applicable water, wastewater and stormwater master plans, approved watershed planning and/or subwatershed plan in land use planning.

1. Municipal sewage and water services will be the preferred form of servicing. Where municipal sewage services and municipal water services are not provided, the use of private communal sewage services and private communal water services may be permitted. Individual on-site sewage services and individual on-site water services may only be permitted where municipal or private communal services are not available.

1. Adequate public access to the Escarpment should be provided by such means as parking areas, walkways or pedestrian trails (e.g., the Bruce Trail).

1. Development and growth should be compatible with adjacent existing Mineral Resource Extraction Area designations and, where appropriate, incorporate methods of minimizing land use conflicts (e.g., staging, site design, berming).

Municipalities are encouraged to pass sign by-laws to ensure that the cultural heritage resources, attractive streetscapes and scenic resources of Minor Urban Centres are conserved.

Mineral Extraction

1.9.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To designate Mineral Resource Extraction Areas where licensed mineral aggregate operations are permitted.

1. To minimize the impact of mineral aggregate operations on the Escarpment environment.

1. To encourage progressive rehabilitation of mineral aggregate operations.

1. To encourage rehabilitated mineral aggregate operations to be restored to a state that is of equal or greater ecological or agricultural value than the original characteristics of the site.

1. To ensure that, after a licence is surrendered, the land is re-designated to a land use designation that is compatible with the rehabilitation of the site, the designation criteria of adjacent lands, the surrounding Escarpment environment and existing land uses in the area.

1. To encourage, where possible, the integration of rehabilitated lands into the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System.

1.9.2 CRITERION FOR DESIGNATION

Licensed pits and quarries producing more than 20,000 tonnes annually.

1.9.3 PERMITTED USES

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Existing uses.

1. Mineral aggregate operations licensed pursuant to the Aggregate Resources Act but not including associated facilities unless they are permitted as an accessory use.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Recreational uses.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Watershed management, and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. Accessory uses normally associated with the mineral aggregate operation, such as temporary offices serving the subject site, signage, crushing and washing facilities, or facilities for recycling and re- processing of mineral aggregate resources. Asphalt plants, concrete plants, brick manufacturing plants and other similar manufacturing uses shall not be permitted.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space Master/Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges and boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Policy expired.

1.9.4 LOT CREATION

1. Any new lot created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area shall require an amendment to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.9.4.1 and as provided for in Part 2.4.12 of this Plan, a new lot may be created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area by a NEPOSS agency or approved conservation organization specifically for the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System or for the establishment of a nature preserve, provided there is not more than one remnant lot.

1.9.5 AFTER USES

Natural

Escarpment features that are in a relatively natural state and associated valleylands, wetlands and woodlands that are relatively undisturbed are included within this designation. These areas may contain important cultural heritage resources, in addition to wildlife habitat, geological features and natural features that provide essential ecosystem services, including water storage, water and air filtration, biodiversity, support of pollinators, carbon storage and resilience to climate change. These are the most sensitive natural and scenic resources of the Escarpment. The policies aim to protect and enhance these natural areas.

1.3.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To recognize, protect and where possible enhance the natural heritage and hydrological systems associated with the Niagara Escarpment Plan area.

1. To protect the most natural Escarpment features, valleylands, wetlands and related significant natural areas.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features and areas of interest to First Nations and Métis communities.

1. To encourage compatible recreation, conservation and educational activities.

To maintain and enhance the scenic resources and open landscape character of the Escarpment.

1.3.2 CRITERIA FOR DESIGNATION

1. Escarpment slopes and Escarpment Related Landforms associated with the underlying bedrock that are in a relatively natural state.

1. Where woodlands abut the Escarpment, the designation includes the woodlands 300 metres back from the brow of the Escarpment slopes.

1. Provincially significant Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (Life Science).

Significant valleylands, provincially significant wetlands and wetlands greater than 20 hectares in size.

1.3.3 PERMITTED USES

Here are some common permitted uses in Escarpment Natural Area, subject to Part 2, Development Criteria:

1. Existing uses (for greater certainty, includes existing agricultural uses, existing agriculture-related uses and existing on-farm diversified uses).

1. Single dwellings.

1. Non-motorized trail activities, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Unserviced camping on public and institutional land, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Accessory uses (e.g., garage, swimming pools, tennis courts or signs), except for ponds.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Home occupations.

1. Essential watershed management and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Bed and breakfast.

Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1.3.4 LOT CREATION

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot, from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there have been no previous lots severed from one of the affected original township lots or original township half lots. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.3.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or
  - - d) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. In the Town Plot of Brooke, Grey County, a lot may be created by severing one of the original Town Plot lots from another, provided there have been no previous lots severed from one of the affected Town Plot lots. Such severances shall only occur along the original Town Plot lines.

A lot created by a public body (e.g., for a road or park) or by an approved conservation organization for a nature preserve will not be considered a previous lot. A remnant lot(s) created as a result of a lot acquired by a public body, or an approved conservation organization, which may be used as a building lot(s) shall be considered an existing lot of record if the pre-existing lot was an existing lot of record and will be considered a previous lot for the purpose of determining entitlement to further severances if the pre-existing lot was a previous lot.

Protection

The policies aim to protect and enhance natural and hydrologic features and the open landscape character of the Escarpment and lands in its vicinity.

1.4.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To maintain and enhance the scenic resources and open landscape character of the Escarpment.

1. To provide a buffer to prominent Escarpment features.

1. To recognize, protect and where possible enhance the natural heritage system associated with the Niagara Escarpment Plan area and protect natural areas of regional significance.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features and areas of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To encourage forest management, compatible recreation, conservation and educational activities.

To encourage agriculture and protect agricultural lands and prime agricultural areas.

1.4.2 CRITERIA FOR DESIGNATION

1. Escarpment slopes and Escarpment Related Landforms where existing land uses have significantly altered the natural environment (e.g., agricultural lands or residential development).

1. Areas in close proximity to Escarpment slopes that are visually part of the landscape unit.

Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (Life Science), or environmentally sensitive or environmentally significant areas identified by municipalities or conservation authorities.

1.4.3 PERMITTED USES

Common uses permitted under Escarpment Protection lands, subject to Part 2, Development Criteria, included:

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses, in prime agricultural areas.

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Mobile or portable dwelling unit(s) accessory to agriculture.

1. Non-motorized trail activities and snowmobiling, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Unserviced camping on public and institutional land, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Accessory uses (e.g., a garage, swimming pool, tennis court, ponds or signs).

1. Institutional uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Home occupations and home industries.

1. Watershed management and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Recycling depots for paper, glass and cans etc., serving the local community.

1. Bed and breakfast.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot).

1.4.4 LOT CREATION

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot, from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there have been no previous lots severed from one of the affected original township lots or original township half lots. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.4.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. New lots may be created for agricultural uses, provided both the severed and remnant lots are of sufficient size to remain useful for agricultural purposes, and such lots are not less than 16 hectares in a specialty crop area or 40 hectares in any other prime agricultural area. These new lots shall only be permitted in municipalities where the official plan has identified specialty crop areas and/or prime agricultural areas.

New lots may be created for agriculture-related uses, provided that any new lot is limited to the minimum size needed to accommodate the use. A lot created for an agriculture-related use shall not be used for residential purposes.

Rural

1.5.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To maintain the scenic resources of lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment and the open landscape character of the Escarpment.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To encourage forest management and recreation.

1. To provide for compatible rural land uses.

1. To encourage agriculture and protect agricultural lands and prime agricultural areas.

1. To provide a buffer for ecologically sensitive areas of the Escarpment.

To provide for the consideration of new Mineral Resource Extraction Areas which can be accommodated by an amendment to this Plan.

1.5.2 CRITERIA FOR DESIGNATION

1. Minor Escarpment slopes and Escarpment Related Landforms.

1. Lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment necessary to provide an open landscape character.

1. Lands in the vicinity of the Escarpment which are of ecological importance to the Escarpment environment.

1. Lands that have potential for enhanced ecological values through natural succession processes or due to their proximity to other ecologically sensitive lands, areas or features.

1.5.3 PERMITTED USES

Subject to Part 2, Development Criteria, the following are some common uses for Escarpment Rural lands:

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Secondary dwelling units.

1. Mobile or portable dwelling unit(s) accessory to agriculture.

1. Recreational uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Accessory uses (e.g., a garage, swimming pools, tennis courts, ponds, or signs).

1. Institutional uses, outside of prime agricultural areas.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Home occupations and home industries.

1. Watershed management and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. New licensed mineral aggregate operations producing up to 20,000 tonnes annually.

1. Wayside pits and quarries.

1. Recycling depots for paper, glass and cans etc., serving the local community.

1. Bed and breakfast.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot).

1.5.4 LOT CREATION

1. A lot may be created by severing one original township lot or original township half lot from another original township lot or original township half lot, provided there has been no more than one previous lot severed from one of the affected original township lot or original township half lot. Such severances shall only occur along the original township lot line.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.5.4.1, provided no new building lot(s) is created, a severance may be permitted:
  - - a) for the purpose of correcting conveyances, provided the correction does not include the re-creation of merged lots;
  - - b) for the purpose of enlarging existing lots;
  - - c) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by a public body; or
  - - d) as part of, or following, the acquisition of lands by an approved conservation organization for the purpose of establishing a nature preserve.

1. New lots may be created for agricultural uses, provided both the severed and remnant lots are of sufficient size to remain useful for agricultural purposes, and such lots are not less than 16 hectares in a specialty crop area or 40 hectares in any other prime agricultural area. These new lots shall only be permitted in municipalities where the official plan has identified specialty crop areas and/or prime agriculture areas.

1. New lots may be created for agriculture-related uses, provided that any new lot is limited to the minimum size needed to accommodate the use. A lot created for an agriculture-related use shall not be used for residential purposes.

1. Provided no lots have been created in the past from the original township lot, or original township half lot, where the original township lot is 80 hectares or more, and where the proposed lot is not in conflict with the Agricultural Policies of the Provincial Policy Statement, one lot may be severed for a permitted use.

1. No new lots are permitted where one or more lots have been severed from the original township lot, or original township half lot, where the original township lot is 80 hectares or more.

1. The severance of a lot with a residence that has been rendered surplus to an agricultural operation as a result of a farm consolidation is permitted, subject to the policies found in Section 2.4 and Section 2.8 of this Plan that apply to such a severance and the associated APO lot created by this severance.

A lot created by a public body (e.g., for a road or park) or by an approved conservation organization for a nature preserve will not be considered a previous lot. A remnant lot(s) created as a result of a lot acquired by a public body or an approved conservation organization, which may be used as a building lot(s), shall be considered an existing lot of record if the pre-existing lot was an existing lot of record and shall be considered a previous lot for the purpose of determining entitlement to additional severances if the pre-existing lot was a previous lot.

Recreation

Designated Recreation Areas are areas of existing or potential recreational development associated with the Escarpment. Such areas may include both seasonal and permanent residences.

1.8.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To minimize negative impacts of recreational development on the Escarpment environment.

1. To provide areas where new recreation and associated development can be concentrated around established, identified or approved downhill ski centres.

1. To provide areas where new recreation and associated development can be concentrated around established, identified or approved lakeshore residential areas in Grey and Bruce Counties.

1. To recognize the importance of the four-season recreation resort areas in the Town of the Blue Mountains to the tourism sector of Ontario’s economy.

1. To provide for the development of new ski centres or other recreational areas.

1. To ensure that recreational development protects and maintains community character, hydrologic and natural heritage features and functions, and the scenic resources of the Escarpment.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1.8.2 CRITERION FOR DESIGNATION

Established, identified or approved recreation areas (e.g., ski centres, lakeshore residential areas, and resort development areas).

1.8.3 PERMITTED USES

1. Existing uses.

1. Single dwellings.

1. Secondary dwelling units.

1. In ski centres, facilities such as ski runs, ski lifts, slide rides and toboggan runs that require the Escarpment slope.

1. Commercial development normally associated with a ski centre or a lakeshore residential area, such as marinas, lodges, retail stores and service establishments.

1. Golf courses.

1. Trail activities.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space System Master/ Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges, boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Billboards.

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Agricultural Purposes Only lot (APO lot)

1. Accessory uses (e.g., garage, swimming pools, tennis courts, ponds or signs).

1. Infrastructure.

1.8.4 LOT CREATION

1.8.5 DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES

1. Development within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas.

1. Development within Recreation Areas should encourage reduced energy consumption, improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions (consistent with provincial reduction targets to 2030 and 2050) and working towards the long-term goals of lowcarbon communities, net-zero communities and increased resilience to climate change, through maximizing opportunities for the use of green infrastructure and appropriate low impact development.

1. New lots within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not be created if such lots encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas adjacent to the Urban Area.

1. Lots within Escarpment Recreation Areas shall not be enlarged to encroach into Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas in order to provide more area for development.

1. Notwithstanding Objectives 3 and 4 above, new lots may include Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas designation under the following circumstances:
  - - a) correcting conveyances;
  - - b) where the land has, or is to be, acquired by a public body or an approved conservation organization; or
  - - c) enlarging existing lots, provided that no further fragmentation of the Escarpment Natural, Escarpment Protection, Escarpment Rural or Mineral Resource Extraction Areas adjacent to the Escarpment Recreation Area would result and that there is sufficient area within the Escarpment Recreation Area to accommodate development.

1. In ski centres and four-season recreational resort areas, development on prominent Escarpment slopes shall be limited to:
  - - a) recreational facilities, such as ski runs, ski lifts or slides that require the slope for the proper functioning of the operation;
  - - b) recreational uses, including walking or hiking trails (e.g., the Bruce Trail);
  - - c) accessory uses and accessory facilities, except for infrastructure, that are underground, localized in nature, and do not result in visual impacts, permanent loss of ground vegetation or trees, or permanent contour changes;
  - - d) accessory uses, and accessory facilities related to existing uses that have minimal negative impact on the Escarpment environment and maintain the open landscape character; and
  - - e) existing registered plans of subdivision or condominium.

1. In the Town of The Blue Mountains and the Municipality of Grey Highlands no additional development, including the creation of new lots, shall be permitted on the Escarpment slope above the contour identifying the toe of the Escarpment slope or the applicable property boundary deemed to be the toe of the Escarpment slope, except for those uses approved as part of the Town of The Blue Mountains Official Plan (as approved by the County of Grey on December 10, 2004), the Castle Glen Official Plan (dated October 23, 2006, and approved by the Ontario Municipal Board on December 4, 2006) or the Municipality of Grey Highlands Official Plan (as approved by the Ontario Municipal Board on September 29, 2003).

1. Lakeshore residential areas may extend inland to permit new development in a planned group provided that it does not encroach upon the Escarpment Natural Area or the Escarpment Protection Area designations and does not exceed approximately 200 metres in depth measured from the high water mark.

1. Within lakeshore residential areas, where proposed lots within a subdivision have no lake frontage, provision shall be made with the municipality (land or cash in lieu) prior to registration for public lake frontage to be part of or adjacent to the subdivision.

1. Growth and development in Escarpment Recreation Areas shall be compatible with and provide for:
  - - a) the protection of natural heritage features and functions;
  - - b) the protection of hydrologic features and functions;
  - - c) the protection of agricultural lands, including prime agricultural areas;
  - - d) the conservation of cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities;
  - - e) considerations for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improved resilience to the impacts of a changing climate;
  - - f) sustainable use of water resources for ecological and servicing needs; and compliance with the targets, criteria and recommendations of applicable water, wastewater and stormwater master plans, approved watershed planning and/or subwatershed plans in land use planning.

1. Recreational uses shall be designed to utilize existing site and topographical conditions. Minimum regrading, placement/excavation of fill and vegetation removal are allowed only if they are essential to the use and there are minimal negative impacts on the Escarpment environment.

1. Municipalities are encouraged to pass sign by-laws to ensure that community character, open landscape character and scenic resources of the Escarpment are maintained and enhanced.

1. Municipal sewer and water services will be the preferred form of servicing and, in the Town of The Blue Mountains, will be required in the Service Districts of Craigleith, Camperdown, Castle Glen, and Swiss Meadows, in accordance with the municipal official plan.

1.8.6 OFFICIAL PLANS, SECONDARY PLANS AND/OR BYLAWS

Minor Urban

This land use designation identifies those rural settlements, villages and hamlets that are distributed throughout the Niagara Escarpment Plan area.

1.6.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To recognize, maintain and enhance existing rural settlements or provide concentration points for development and growth in rural areas.

1. To ensure that cumulatively the existing Minor Urban Centres and any associated development and growth can be accommodated and serviced in a manner that would be environmentally sustainable over the long term.

1. To promote the co-location of compatible public services to address local community needs in convenient locations that are accessible by walking, cycling and public transit, where available.

1. To conserve cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Métis communities.

1. To ensure that new development is compatible with the identity and traditional character of Minor Urban Centres.

1. To direct the growth of villages, hamlets, and settlement areas away from Escarpment Natural Areas and Escarpment Protection Areas into Escarpment Rural Areas in a logical manner with the least possible environmental and agricultural disruption.

1. To ensure that any growth will be in accordance with a municipal official plan and/or secondary plan that is not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.2 LIST OF MINOR URBAN CENTRES

The Minor Urban Centre designation includes the following list of villages and hamlets that are designated in local, regional or county official plans:

Additions to this list and the designations on Maps 1 to 9 require amendments to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.3 APPLICATION OF DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OBJECTIVES

1.6.4 BOUNDARIES

1.6.5 PERMITTED USES AND LOT CREATION

1.6.6 AMENDMENTS TO MUNICIPAL PLANS AND/ OR SECONDARY PLANS

1.6.7 LAND USE CONTROL

By-laws or by-law amendments must not conflict with the Objectives and Development and Growth Objectives of this designation, and the Development Criteria in Part 2 of the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1.6.8 DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OBJECTIVES

1. Development and growth, including the creation of new lots, shall not extend into the Escarpment Natural Areas.

1. The Escarpment Natural Area designation and its policies must be incorporated into the official plan/secondary plan or development proposal.

1. Development and growth should avoid Escarpment Protection Areas and be directed to Escarpment Rural Areas in a manner consistent with Escarpment Rural Area Objectives and Part 2, the Development Criteria of this Plan.

1. Development and growth should be limited to minimize land use conflicts (e.g., with agriculture) and all development should be of a design compatible with the scenic resources of the Escarpment. Where appropriate, provision for adequate setbacks, and maximum heights for buildings, structures and screening shall be required to minimize the visual impact of development, consistent with any applicable provincial guidance.

1. Development within Minor Urban Centres should encourage reduced energy consumption, improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions (consistent with provincial reduction targets to 2030 and 2050) and work towards the long-term goals of low carbon communities, net-zero communities and increased resilience to climate change, through maximizing opportunities for the use of green infrastructure and appropriate low impact development.

1. Development and growth should be minor only, relative to the size and capacity of the settlement to absorb new growth, so that the community character is maintained.

1. Development and growth should take place as a logical extension of existing development in the form of planned groups, rather than linear or scattered development. Expansion in depth, rather than extension along existing roads, is favoured.

1. Limited infilling may be permitted in the built-up portions of Minor Urban Centres that do not have an approved official plan and/or secondary plan.

1. Growth and development in Minor Urban Centres shall be compatible with and provide for:
  - - a) the protection of natural heritage features and functions;
  - - b) the protection of hydrologic features and functions;
  - - c) the protection of agricultural lands, including prime agricultural areas;
  - - d) the conservation of cultural heritage resources, including features of interest to First Nation and Metis communities;
  - - e) considerations for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improved resilience to the impacts of a changing climate;
  - - f) sustainable use of water resources for ecological and servicing needs; and First Nation and Métis communities;
  - - g) compliance with the targets, criteria and recommendations of applicable water, wastewater and stormwater master plans, approved watershed planning and/or subwatershed plan in land use planning.

1. Municipal sewage and water services will be the preferred form of servicing. Where municipal sewage services and municipal water services are not provided, the use of private communal sewage services and private communal water services may be permitted. Individual on-site sewage services and individual on-site water services may only be permitted where municipal or private communal services are not available.

1. Adequate public access to the Escarpment should be provided by such means as parking areas, walkways or pedestrian trails (e.g., the Bruce Trail).

1. Development and growth should be compatible with adjacent existing Mineral Resource Extraction Area designations and, where appropriate, incorporate methods of minimizing land use conflicts (e.g., staging, site design, berming).

Municipalities are encouraged to pass sign by-laws to ensure that the cultural heritage resources, attractive streetscapes and scenic resources of Minor Urban Centres are conserved.

Mineral Extraction

1.9.1 OBJECTIVES

1. To designate Mineral Resource Extraction Areas where licensed mineral aggregate operations are permitted.

1. To minimize the impact of mineral aggregate operations on the Escarpment environment.

1. To encourage progressive rehabilitation of mineral aggregate operations.

1. To encourage rehabilitated mineral aggregate operations to be restored to a state that is of equal or greater ecological or agricultural value than the original characteristics of the site.

1. To ensure that, after a licence is surrendered, the land is re-designated to a land use designation that is compatible with the rehabilitation of the site, the designation criteria of adjacent lands, the surrounding Escarpment environment and existing land uses in the area.

1. To encourage, where possible, the integration of rehabilitated lands into the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System.

1.9.2 CRITERION FOR DESIGNATION

Licensed pits and quarries producing more than 20,000 tonnes annually.

1.9.3 PERMITTED USES

1. Agricultural uses.

1. Agriculture-related uses and on-farm diversified uses.

1. Existing uses.

1. Mineral aggregate operations licensed pursuant to the Aggregate Resources Act but not including associated facilities unless they are permitted as an accessory use.

1. Forest, wildlife and fisheries management.

1. Licensed archaeological fieldwork.

1. Recreational uses.

1. Infrastructure.

1. Watershed management, and flood and erosion control projects carried out or supervised by a public body.

1. Accessory uses normally associated with the mineral aggregate operation, such as temporary offices serving the subject site, signage, crushing and washing facilities, or facilities for recycling and re- processing of mineral aggregate resources. Asphalt plants, concrete plants, brick manufacturing plants and other similar manufacturing uses shall not be permitted.

1. Uses permitted in the Parks and Open Space Master/Management Plans that are not in conflict with the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. The Bruce Trail corridor, including the pedestrian footpath and, where necessary, trailrelated constructions (e.g., bridges and boardwalks), overnight rest areas and Bruce Trail access points.

1. Nature preserves owned and managed by an approved conservation organization.

1. Policy expired.

1.9.4 LOT CREATION

1. Any new lot created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area shall require an amendment to the Niagara Escarpment Plan.

1. Notwithstanding Part 1.9.4.1 and as provided for in Part 2.4.12 of this Plan, a new lot may be created within a Mineral Resource Extraction Area by a NEPOSS agency or approved conservation organization specifically for the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System or for the establishment of a nature preserve, provided there is not more than one remnant lot.

1.9.5 AFTER USES

Land Designation Popup

Have a question about your development project?

What is your concern?