London unveils draft zoning by-law; comments due Nov. 20

The City of London released a draft of a new zoning by-law on Oct. 15 that would replace the existing Zoning By-law Z.-1, and residents have until Nov. 20 to comment.

The city said the draft sets the rules for how properties can be used and developed in London and follows the direction of The London Plan, its official plan. The city said it aims to streamline approvals and provide more housing options and support for businesses. It cautioned that zoning does not guarantee development will happen and that other approvals may still apply.

“We want people to feel comfortable asking questions and have the information they need to provide informed feedback,” said Heather McNeeley, the city’s director of planning and development.

Scott Mathers, deputy city manager for housing and community growth, said in the city’s release that the goal is to modernize zoning so it is easier to build and invest in London and to support housing and businesses.

The city has scheduled in-person drop-in sessions. The remaining sessions are at the Sherwood Library branch on Oct. 27 from 6:30 to 8 p.m., the Beacock Library branch on Nov. 3 from 6:30 to 8 p.m., and the Bostwick Library branch on Nov. 6 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. A pop-up booth at Covent Garden Market runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Oct. 27 and Nov. 3. A session was held at the South London Community Centre on Oct. 22.

A community information session with a presentation and question period is set for Tuesday, Nov. 24, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Goodwill Industries on Horton Street. It falls after the Nov. 20 feedback deadline.

The draft, an interactive map and frequently asked questions are on the city’s Get Involved London page, getinvolved.london.ca/rethink-zoning. The project team can also be reached at [email protected].

London voted in a municipal election on Oct. 26. Our report on Josh Morgan’s re-election as mayor and our voting guide have more on the city’s politics, and the city-by-city unemployment rates show how London’s labour market compares.

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Source: City of London news release, Oct. 15, 2026; City of London ReThink Zoning project page.