Land Use Planning
Core instruments
Land-use planning allocates rights and expectations. Know official/comprehensive plans (policy direction), zoning bylaws (use, density, height, setbacks, parking), subdivision control, site plans, overlay zones, form-based codes, and development permits. Learn density (units per hectare or acre), floor area ratio (GFA divided by parcel area), coverage, and height transitions. Compatibility is relational, not a single number.
Traps
FAR is not density. A variance is for minor relief from standards, not for a new use or a large intensification; those need an amendment. Legal non-conforming uses may continue but usually cannot expand without approval. 'Highest and best use' is an appraisal concept, not a planning entitlement. Do not assume an official plan designation automatically zones land.
Worked example
A 1,000 m² lot has a 2.0 FAR. Maximum gross floor area equals 2,000 m². If the proposal is 2,400 m², it exceeds the envelope; a minor variance is unlikely because the gap is substantial and changes intensity. Rule of thumb: check four things in order-designation, zoning, built-form standards, and servicing capacity.
Rule of thumb
When a question asks whether a proposal is 'consistent' or 'conforms,' separate policy conformity (plan) from regulatory compliance (bylaw). Also check whether the approval body has delegated authority; a staff recommendation is not a decision.