Downtown Sydney

Municipal Planning & Land Use By-laws

Public Hearing - Amendments to the Land Use By-law

The Council of the Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM) has scheduled a Public Hearing to consider amendments to the CBRM Land Use By-law (LUB). The proposed amendments align with existing plan policies and do not change the overall direction of the LUB. Instead, they enhance clarity for both administrators and users.

View Proposed Amendments to the Land Use By-law

The Public Hearing has been scheduled for Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in Room B534, NSCC Waterfront Campus, 500 Esplanade, Sydney.

Anyone wishing to comment on the proposed amendments is welcome to make a presentation at the Public Hearing or make a written submission via email. Written submissions will be accepted by email or mail until 4:00 p.m. on Friday, June 5, 2026. Written submissions must include your full name and address for the public record.

Requests for further information, including a copy of the proposed amendments and statement submissions, can be directed to the Planning Department at 902-563-5070 or by email to PlanningConsult@cbrm.ns.ca


At CBRM, we believe in responsible and sustainable development. Our commitment to the well-being and growth of our community is reflected in our comprehensive planning framework, CBRM Forward.

Under the authority of the provincial Municipal Government Act, CBRM has adopted several key planning documents that work together to shape development and protect community interests.

Municipal Planning Strategy

The Municipal Planning Strategy sets the long-term vision for growth and development in CBRM. It provides policy direction for land use, housing, transportation and community design.

Land Use By-law

The Land Use By-law puts the Municipal Planning Strategy into action by outlining zoning rules and development standards.

It regulates how properties can be used and includes requirements such as permitted land uses, lot sizes and setbacks, building height and placement, and parking and amenity space.

Subdivision By-law

The Subdivision By-law provides regulations for creating or adjusting property boundaries. It addresses matters such as lot size, access, and street design to support safe, functional and well-organized communities.

Maps & Interactive Tools

Explore zoning and planning information online using our Interactive Map.

Contact Us

For questions regarding zoning, planning and development, reach out to PlanningConsult@cbrm.ns.ca