Thursday, Oct. 6, 2016 (Halifax, NS) – The Halifax Regional Municipality is seeking public feedback on potential amendments to the Regional Municipal Planning Strategy and community land use bylaws regarding lots of 25 acres (10 hectares) or more that do not meet road frontage requirements. Residents are encouraged to take part in a short online discussion and provide feedback on this matter through our Shape Your City Engagement Hub beginning today and continuing until Thursday, Oct. 20. Please visit shapeyourcityhalifax.ca/25-acre-lots to provide input. Additional information, including background and frequently asked questions about lots of 25 acres or more can be found at http://www.halifax.ca/as-of-right-development/index.php. The HRM Charter allows lot sizes of 25 acres (10 hectares) or more to be created outside of the municipal subdivision approval process. This exemption is generally intended for resource uses such as farming or forestry. However, in recent years it has become more common for people to utilize the exemption with the intent of creating such lots for cottage or residential development. Although such lots can be created without meeting subdivision bylaw or land use bylaw (LUB) requirements, development permits will only be issued if the development meets LUB requirements. The municipality has heard from several landowners in recent months with questions and concerns related to development on lots of this nature. This feedback – along with a simultaneous detailed staff review – was productive and informative. As a result, merit was found to consider possible amendments to the Regional Municipal Planning Strategy and community land use bylaws. This request for feedback is a required step consistent with the HRM Charter and the municipality’s Public Participation Program requirements. The Halifax Regional Municipality thanks all residents for their feedback on this matter. Source: Release