Learn more about the zoning of your property and what is permitted within that zone.

On this page:


What is a Zoning By-law?

A Zoning By-Law is a regulatory document implementing the policy direction provided in the Official Plan. It is a legally enforceable document that regulates land use and property development.

Zoning By-Laws control land use by stating exactly how the public can use land, where the public can locate buildings and structures, the types of buildings permitted, lot sizes and dimensions, parking requirements, building heights, and property setbacks.

The approved By-Law text can be accessed here:

The Norfolk County Zoning By-Law has been developed to incorporate the policy direction of the Norfolk County Official Plan.

Hard copies of the County Zoning By-Law can be ordered by contacting the Zoning Administrator.

Map Schedules updated to January 1, 2021:


Zoning FAQ

We’ve answered some of the most frequently asked zoning questions.

What is the zoning of my property?

You can visit our GIS mapping system to determine what your property is zoned. If you have further questions, you can fill out our zoning form and we will respond to you within two business days.

What can I build on my property?

If you know what your property is zoned, you can refer to our zoning bylaw and confirm if what you are proposing to build is listed under “permitted uses.”

Note: Cannabis facilities are under site plan control; although they are listed as permitted use in some zones, the Planning Department must be contacted regarding all proposed facilities.

If you have any questions regarding what is permitted on your property, please complete the Zoning Inquiry Form, and we will respond to you within two business days.

What size shop/garage/accessory storage building can I build on my property?

Please complete the Zoning Inquiry Form, and we will respond to you within two business days.

Can I run this business on my property?

Please complete the Zoning Inquiry Form, and we will respond to you within two business days.

Can I put signs up on my property to advertise my business?

A permit for a sign is required. Please check your zoning, then refer to the sign bylaw for the requirements for your sign. See the Sign Permit package for more information.

Can I operate a dog kennel on my property?

Dog kennels are only permitted in the agricultural (A) zone. Four or more dogs are classified as a kennel. If your proposal fits this description, please complete the Zoning Inquiry Form, and we will respond to you within two business days.

Can I grow cannabis on my property?

All proposed cannabis facilities are under site plan control. For more information, review the cannabis bylaw.

You will also need to visit our Planning page or email [email protected]. for site plan control application.

Are the buildings on my property zoned properly, or is the property I am going to purchase zoned properly?

Please complete the Zoning Inquiry Form, and we will respond to you within two business days.

How close to the property line can I build a fence?

A permit is not required for a fence, but the fencing bylaw applies, which states the type of fence, height of fence, and setbacks from property lines to the fence. Learn more about the requirements required for fencing.

For other questions relating to fencing, please get in touch with the By-Law Enforcement division by calling 519-426-5870 or 226-NORFOLK, extension 6015.

A fence may be required for your swimming pool.

Do small sheds (under 10’x10’) still need to comply with the zoning bylaw?

Yes, although a permit is not required for a shed this size, you must still comply with all setback requirements and height restrictions.

To confirm what is required through zoning, please complete the Zoning Inquiry Form, and we will respond to you within two business days.

Can I have livestock on my property?

No livestock shall be permitted to be kept in any Zone with the exception of the Agricultural Zone (A) on parcels with a minimum lot area of two (2) hectares.

Livestock shall mean and include bovine, swine, poultry, horses, goats, sheep, fur-bearing animals, deer and elk, game animals, birds and other animals identified in the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Minimum Distance Separation (MDS) Formulae Implementation Guidelines Factor Tables (Table 1) as amended.

Can I have chickens on my property?

Yes, backyard chickens are permitted in most zones, but you must comply with the backyard hens bylaw.

If you want more chickens than the backyard hen bylaw allows, then you must be zoned AGR and have 5 acres or more to accommodate the chickens.

Can I have an accessory dwelling unit on my property?

View the accessory dwelling unit page for more information.

If you have any other general questions regarding accessory dwelling units, please complete the Zoning Inquiry Form, and we will respond to you within two business days.


Zoning inquiry form


Interactive Map