Take the Stress Out of Planning Applications – Start with Expert Pre-Consultation! On this page you can:

  1. Find Out If Pre-Consultation Is Right for You
  2. Kick Off the Pre-Consultation Process
  3. Review Your Pre-Consultation Results

Planning applications can be complex and technical—but they don’t have to be overwhelming. By starting with a pre-consultation, you gain direct access to planning experts who can help you make sure that your application is accurate, complete, and on the right track from day one.

Your proposal will be shared with relevant City departments and public agencies early in the process, giving you valuable insight and feedback before you officially submit. This proactive approach can save time, reduce costly revisions, and increase your chances of success.

Once the review is complete, you will meet with Planning Services to go over your project in detail. You'll receive professional feedback on your application’s potential and clear guidance on the next steps needed to move forward with confidence.

Find Out if Pre-Consultation is Right for You?

We strongly recommend a pre-consultation before applying for a:

  • Zoning By-law and/or Official Plan amendment
  • Draft Plan of Subdivision or Condominium
  • Consent to Sever
  • Site Plan Approval or Amendment
  • Minor variance
  • Permission to enlarge or change a legal non-conforming use

Visit the Find zoning and property info page to check your property's zoning, or contact Planning Services for assistance at 807-62-BUILD (28453).

Kick Off the pre-consultation process

The more information and details you can provide about your proposal during Pre-Consultation, the more informative and detailed the feedback from City staff can be.

To apply online:

  1. Create an account or sign in to the Property and Permits portal
  2. Enter information about your project
  3. Upload preliminary site sketch
  4. Pay the $356 fee using a credit card

Apply online 

To apply in person:

  1. Download the Pre-Consultation form.
  2. Enter information about your project in the form.
  3. Bring the completed form and site sketch to the Build Thunder Bay Customer Service Counter - Victoriaville Civic Centre, 2nd floor, 111 Syndicate Ave. S. 
  4. Pay the $356 fee by cash, cheque, credit or debit at the Build Thunder Bay Customer Service Counter

Review Your Pre-Consultation Results

You will meet with the City’s Planning team to receive feedback on the viability of your plans and any additional information you may have to provide to move forward. This early engagement helps ensure a smoother approval process and minimizes potential delays down the line.

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