Navigating the Rezoning Process

What Is Rezoning and Why Does It Matter?

Rezoning is the process of changing a property’s land use designation under Edmonton’s Zoning Bylaw 20001. It allows landowners to develop their sites in new ways: increasing density, introducing new uses, or removing outdated restrictions that limit what can be built or how a site can be used.

Done right, rezoning unlocks a site’s potential and increases its value. It’s also an essential tool in supporting Edmonton’s broader growth goals—more housing, more walkable communities, and better use of existing infrastructure.

Our role at Situate is to help clients understand what’s possible under current zoning, what could be possible with a change, and how to chart the smoothest path forward.

Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Rezoning Process

While every project is different, the rezoning process typically follows these key steps:

1. Zoning Analysis & Strategy Development
   We start with a thorough review of the property and applicable policies. This includes site characteristics, nearby rezonings, infrastructure capacity, and alignment with City Plan and District Plans.
2. Preparing and Submitting the Application
   A rezoning application includes a rationale report, map, title, and—if needed—supporting technical reports. We prepare everything required for submission to the City.
3. City Review & Circulation
   Once submitted, the application is reviewed by City Administration and circulated to internal departments like transportation, drainage, and fire services. We work closely with the City to address any questions or concerns that come up.
4. Public Notification & Community Input
   The City notifies neighbours and posts the application online. We coordinate a project webpage, mailouts, and signage, and communicate with community leagues and residents as needed.
5. City Council Public Hearing
   Council hears from City staff, the applicant (that’s us), and members of the public. Council then debates and votes on the application. If approved, the new zoning takes effect immediately.

We support our clients at every step—coordinating logistics, problem-solving with City Administration, and representing them at the public hearing.

Common Challenges in the Rezoning Process

Even straightforward rezonings can come with complications. Some of the most common challenges include:

• Neighbour pushback: Change can make people uneasy. Even modest rezonings can generate concerns about traffic, parking, or neighbourhood character. Clear communication and a thoughtful approach can go a long way in reducing tension.
• Policy interpretation: Zoning and planning policies can be complex, and sometimes different people interpret them in different ways. A strong rationale—and knowing how to frame it—can help keep things on track.
• Technical issues: Infrastructure capacity, site access, or utility constraints can surface late in the game. Early coordination with City departments and utilities helps avoid delays.
  

Every rezoning involves a bit of friction. Our job is to anticipate it—and smooth it out.

How Situate Makes Rezoning Work

Rezoning is more than a regulatory process—it’s strategic, political, and often complex. At Situate, we approach it with a combination of policy expertise, clear communication, and a sharp sense of timing.

Our zoning analyses go beyond the basics. We identify not just what’s allowed, but what’s possible—and what’s worth pursuing. We anticipate challenges early, craft strong rationales, and make sure every application is built on solid ground.

We also manage how projects are communicated. From project webpages and postcards to conversations with community leagues and Councillors, we ensure proposals are clear, accessible, and positioned for support.

One example: the rezoning of the St. Anthony’s School site in Old Strathcona. The property was zoned Parks and Services and included a historic school building. Working with Beljan Development, we rezoned the site to Mixed Use, enabling the development of a new 8-storey building while preserving the school.

Instead of using the City’s old approach of writing a custom Direct Control zone tied to heritage designation, we used Edmonton’s new Zoning Bylaw to separate the rezoning and heritage processes—providing more certainty and flexibility. Early outreach helped smooth the way, and the rezoning was approved by Council in January 2025.

That’s the kind of outcome we aim for: well-prepared applications, smart strategy, and results that work for everyone involved.

Why Strategic Timing Matters

Even a well-prepared proposal can struggle if it lands at the wrong moment—when public sentiment is shifting, Council priorities are in flux, or new planning approaches are taking shape behind the scenes.

We help our clients read the room. That means understanding when the City is likely to be receptive, how neighbourhood conversations are evolving, and how to frame a proposal so that it speaks to both current policy and emerging direction.

In short: the right application, at the right time, makes all the difference.

Conclusion

Rezoning is a powerful way to increase the value and potential of your property—but it’s also a process that requires expertise, strategy, and patience.

At Situate, we bring years of experience, a strong track record, and a deep understanding of Edmonton’s planning framework to help our clients succeed.

If you’re looking to learn more about how rezoning can help bring your project to life, we’re here to help.