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Report To: Planning and Development Committee
Date of Meeting: June 28, 2021 Report Number: PDS-039-21
Submitted By:
Reviewed By:
File Number:
Report Subject:
Ryan Windle, Director of Planning and Development Services Andrew
C. Allison, CAO Resolution#: PD-207-21
PLN 23.8.2 By-law Number: Recreation
Vehicle and Trailer Storage Study
Recommendations:
1.That Report PDS-039-21 be received;
2.That the Study and options outlined by D.M. Wills be referred to staff for inclusion in
the Zone Clarington recommendations and upcoming Official Plan Review;
3.That the topic of On-Farm Diversified Uses and guidelines for such uses be referred
to the Agricultural Advisory Committee of Clarington for their input; and
4.That all interested parties listed in Report PDS-039-21 and any delegations be
advised of Council’s decision.
Municipality of Clarington Page 2
Report PDS-039-21
Report Overview
Planning and Development Services Staff were to report back to Council with a summary of
what is currently permitted by the Clarington’s Official Plan and Zoning By-laws with respect
to recreational vehicle storage, and to identify any additional land use categories with the
potential for this use; and information on how recreational vehicle storage has been
addressed in similar municipalities.
D. W. Mills, the consultant engaged to carryout this work, are reporting their findings, the
comments from public consultation to date, and options.
1. Background
1.1 In January, Clarington Council approved funding to hire an outside planning consultant
to provide options for recreational vehicle storage in Clarington . The consultant was to
identify land use designations and policy options with the potential to allow storage of
RV’s, trailers and boats as a commercial enterprise and report on how the issue of RV
storage has been addressed in similar municipalities.
1.2 The Municipality retained a consultant, D. W. Mills in early April to prepare a
Recreational Vehicle (RV) and Trailer Parking and Storage Study. The purpose of the
Study is to analyze whether the existing provisions for the parking and storage of RVs
and trailers in rural areas are appropriate and determine whether further policy options
are warranted and allowable for RV and trailer parking and storage. The Study was to
also identify land use designations and zoned areas where RV and trailer parking and
storage may be appropriate. In addition, a scan of other similar municipalities was to be
included. For more information on the study process to date, please visit the
Municipality’s website, https://www.clarington.net/en/do-business/rv-and-trailer-parking-
and-storage-study.asp
1.3 The Consultant is to provide options on how Clarington could make policy and
regulatory adjustments to address RV Trailer Parking and Storage Study.
Attachment 1 to this report is the Consultant’s Report.
1.4 The topic of Commercial Recreational Vehicle Storage was last studied in 2008 as
outlined in Addendum Report PSD-099-08 and PSD-007-09. These two reports
resulted in changes to the Zoning By-law in both the urban and rural areas of the
Municipality and amendments to Official Plan policies to allow for site specific zoning
amendments in Urban Residential and Green Space Area designations of the Official
Plan.
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Report PDS-039-21
1.5 As outlined in the consultant’s report and PSD-007-09, any Official Plan policy
amendments to permit commercial outdoor storage areas or recreational vehicles would
have to comply with Provincial and Regional policies.
1.6 The Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) was updated in 2017 and 2020. The 2017
update included a change from secondary uses to agricultural related and on-farm
diversified uses for agricultural lands. The Region’s Municipal Comprehensive Review
of their Official Plan to bring it into conformity with the PPS is underway. Clarington’s
Official Plan Review to bring our policies into conformity with the Region’s will begin
later this year.
1.7 In 2016 Guidelines on Permitted Uses in Ontario’s Prime Agricultural Areas Publication
851 was issued by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. These
guidelines set out criteria to restrict agricultural related and on-farm diversified uses
while protecting the primary resource (the soil).
2. Next Steps
Consultant’s Report
2.1 The key findings, Section 5.0 of the Consultant’s study are:
Amendments to Existing Urban Provisions to Enhance Clarity and Function,
this pertains to the zoning by-laws and can be addressed as part of the Zone
Clarington process that is underway;
Develop and Implement RV Storage Provisions by Lot Size in the
Countryside Area (for personal storage), this could be included within the Zone
Clarington process;
Develop and Implement Policy Framework for On-Farm Diversified Uses, this
should be addressed in consultation with the Agricultural Advisory Committee of
Clarington, Regional and OMAFRA Staff;
Enhance Existing Policy Framework for RV Storage in Employment Areas,
this will have to be reviewed in the context of the Provincial targets for jobs/hectare
and as a secondary use in general industrial areas under specific criteria;
Develop Local Policy Framework to Permit RV Storage on Agricultural Lands
Located within the Urban Boundary, this could apply to “fringe” areas where
agricultural lands have been incorporated into the urban boundary but are un -
serviced and held as “future development”.
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Report PDS-039-21
2.2 To address the key findings of the study, it should be referred to staff to be addressed
as part of the Zone Clarington process which will be coming back to Council later this
year.
Region’s Official Plan
2.3 The last time Clarington Staff studied recreational vehicle storage as a land use was
2008/9. Since then, changes have occurred to the PPS and the Guidelines on
Permitted Uses in Ontario’s Prime Agricultural Areas which address agricultural related
and on-farm diversified uses. In PSD-007-09, there was a recommendation to seek an
amendment to the Region’s Official Plan to allow for commercial outdoor storage of
recreational vehicles subject to criteria in the Major Open Space designation of the
Region’s Official Plan. Additional work would have been required to provide the
justification requested by the Region; however, given the Provincial Policy in place at
that time, this option was not pursued.
2.4 Staff have initiated a discussion with Durham Region Staff to ensure that commercial
RV Storage will be a consideration as part of the Region’s Municipal Comprehensive
Review currently underway. The dialogue on where commercial RV storage would be
allowed has included what is referred to as “edge planning” in the Region’s discussion
paper. This is the area on the urban fringe that is un-serviced and awaiting
development in the future.
On-farm Diversified Uses
2.5 Commercial outdoor storage of recreational vehicles is not related to agriculture;
however, compatible non-agricultural uses, which meet the Guidelines on Permitted
Uses in Ontario’s Prime Agricultural can be considered providing they meet the criteria
spelled out in the guidelines. The consultant has suggested a framework be developed
to regulate and permit on-farm diversified uses, which goes beyond recreational vehicle
storage. To outline an acceptable local planning framework a set of evaluation criteria
including required site alteration, traffic generation, required servicing, agricultural
rehabilitation potential, provision of screening and site design will have to be
determined.
2.6 Staff are recommending that the Agricultural Advisory Committee of Clarington be
consulted on compatible on-farm diversified uses and the evaluation criteria to be used
as part of such a framework.
3. Concurrence
Not Applicable.
Municipality of Clarington Page 5
Report PDS-039-21
4. Conclusion
4.1 It is respectfully recommended that the Study be referred back to Staff to be
implemented, where possible, as part of the Zone Clarington project which will see a
draft by-law before Council late this year.
4.2 Any contemplated changes to Official Plan policies to allow for increased storage on
prime agricultural or rural designated lands will require a Durham Region Official Plan
policy change. The Region is currently reviewing their Official Plan and the options
outlined in the consultant’s study will be reviewed with Regional Staff. Through
discussion, Staff will be able to determine if this could be addressed through the
Region’s Municipal Comprehensive Review. If changes occur in the Regional Official
Plan, any required Clarington Official Plan policy update would be included as part of
our OP Review, set to begin later this year.
4.3 The topic of On-Farm Diversified Uses should be referred to the Agricultural Advisory
Committee of Clarington for their input on what guidelines should be put in place to
protect the resource (the soil) while allowing for additional uses on prime agriculture and
rural designated lands.
Staff Contact: Faye Langmaid, Manager of Special Projects, 905-623-3379 x2407 or
flangmaid@clarington.net.
Attachments:
Attachment 1 – RV and Trailer Parking and Storage Study Final Report,
D.M. Wills Project Number 21-85154, June 2021
Interested Parties:
List of Interested Parties available from Department.
RV and Trailer Parking and Storage
Study Final Report
D.M. Wills Project Number 21-85154
D.M. Wills Associates Limited
Partners in Engineering, Planning and
Environmental Services
Peterborough
June 2021
Prepared for:
Municipality of Clarington
Attachment 1 to Report PDS-039-21
RV and Trailer Parking and Storage Study Final Report
Municipality of Clarington
D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page i Project Number 21-85154
Submissions Summary
Submission
No. Submission Title Date of Release Submissions Summary
1 Draft for Review June 17, 2021 Submitted for Municipal
Staff Review
2 Final Submission June 22, 2021
Submitted for Planning
and Development
Committee
This report / proposal has been formatted considering the requirements of the
Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.
RV and Trailer Parking and Storage Study Final Report
Municipality of Clarington
D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page ii Project Number 21-85154
Table of Contents
Executive Summary ...................................................................................................... 1
Introduction ................................................................................................................... 1
2.1 Project Background ....................................................................................................... 1
2.2 Terminology .................................................................................................................... 2
2.3 Existing Local Policy ....................................................................................................... 3
2.3.1 Municipality of Clarington Official Plan ............................................................... 3
2.3.2 Municipality of Clarington Zoning By-laws .......................................................... 3
Research Background .................................................................................................. 9
3.1 Policy Review .................................................................................................................. 9
3.2 Jurisdictional Scan ....................................................................................................... 14
3.3 Public Consultation Findings ....................................................................................... 15
Identified Options ........................................................................................................ 17
Key Findings ................................................................................................................. 23
Conclusions ................................................................................................................. 27
Tables
Table 1 Existing Official Plan Policies Having Implications for RV Parking and Storage ...... 4
Table 2 Existing Zoning Provisions for Indoor and Outdoor Storage of RVs and Trailers ...... 7
Table 3 Provincial, Regional and Local Policy Having Implications for RV and Trailer
Parking and Storage by Land Category ................................................................................. 10
Table 4 Key Insights from Public Survey ................................................................................... 15
Table 5 Evaluation of Proposed Policy Options ...................................................................... 18
Appendices
Appendix A – Jurisdictional Scan
RV and Trailer Parking and Storage Study Final Report
Municipality of Clarington
D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 1 Project Number 21-85154
Executive Summary
The Municipality of Clarington (Municipality) has retained D.M. Wills Associates Limited
(Wills) to undertake a Recreational Vehicle (RV) and Trailer Parking and Storage Study
(Study). The Study has been initiated by the Municipality in response to an increased
demand for and establishment of commercial RV and trailer parking and storage
facilities within the countryside areas of the Municipality.
Key components of the Study included extensive policy research, jurisdictional scans of
similar and surrounding municipalities and community consultation, including public
surveys and a virtual open house. The information ascertained through the research
and public consultation process highlighted the need for enhanced clarity in local
planning documents with respect to RV and trailer parking and storage; as well as
emphasized the demand for outdoor storage options by residents of the Municipality.
The insights gained from the Study have been utilized to develop a series of findings for
addressing RV and trailer parking and storage in the Municipality. While the focus of the
Study was on commercial storage facilities in the countryside area, what was most
evident throughout the Study is that due to the current prevailing planning policy,
immediate solutions to address such are limited. Therefore, certain of the findings
presented in this report include options for amending personal storage on private
property, in both the urban and countryside areas. Although these options would not
serve to directly address commercial storage of RVs and trailers in the countryside area,
they may in the interim alleviate some of the storage demand until long-term solutions
can be implemented. The options also include long-range and comprehensive
planning items that may serve to address commercial RV and trailer parking and
storage as part of a larger planning exercise.
Of the various options assessed, those identified as having potential for implementation,
and for further examination and consideration by the Municipality include:
1. Amendments to Existing Urban Zoning Provisions to Enhance Clarity and Function.
2. Develop and Implement RV Storage Provisions by Lot Size for Personal Storage in
the Countryside Areas.
3. Develop and Implement Local Policy Framework for On-Farm Diversified Uses.
4. Enhance Existing Policy Framework for RV Storage in Employment Areas.
5. Develop Local Policy Framework to Permit RV Storage on Agricultural Lands
Located within the Urban Boundary.
This Report summarizes the key findings from the background research, community
consultation process, and highlights the identified policy options for addressing RV and
trailer parking and storage in the Municipality.
RV and Trailer Parking and Storage Study Final Report
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D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 1 Project Number 21-85154
Introduction
2.1 Project Background
The use of recreational vehicles is on the rise in Canada. According to a report released
for the Recreational Vehicle Dealers Association of Canada and the Canadian
Recreational Vehicle Association, RV industry retail sales have been on the rise since
2014; with an estimated $3.8 billion in sales across Canada in 2019.1 Approximately 14%
of all Canadian households own or have access to a recreational vehicle and together
the industry provides over $4.8 billion in value added economic activity to the
Canadian economy.
The growth in the industry across Canada appears to also be realized within the
Municipality of Clarington. As the industry as a whole continues to grow, so to does the
requirement for storage by the residents of the Municipality and surrounding area.
Recognizing this demand, several commercial parking and storage operations have
been established on private property within the Municipality, particularly within the
countryside areas.
At present, commercial parking and storage facilities within the countryside areas are
not permitted, save and except through site-specific planning approvals. Personal
storage of RVs and trailers within the countryside areas is allowed; however at a
commercial scale this is not contemplated or permitted. In recognition of the
convergence of these issues, in January of 2021, the Council of the Municipality passed
the following resolutions:
“That pre-budgetary approval of up to $15,000 to hire an outside planning
consultant to provide options for recreational vehicle storage in Clarington; and
That Planning Staff report back with a summary of what is currently permitted by
the Clarington’s Official Plan and Zoning By-laws with respect to recreational
vehicle storage, and to identify any additional land use categories with the
potential for the use; and information on how recreational vehicle storage has
been addressed in similar municipalities.”
In April 2021, D.M. Wills Associates Limited (Wills) was retained to consult on the RV and
Trailer Parking and Storage Study (Study) on behalf of the Municipality. The purpose of
the Study is to analyze whether existing provisions for the parking and storage of
recreational vehicles (RVs) and trailers in the Municipality as they apply in the
countryside are appropriate; and through a comparison with surrounding municipalities,
1 The Portage Group & UrbanMetrics Inc. (2020). Economic Impact of the Canadian Recreation
Vehicle Industry.
https://www.rvda.ca/files/RVDA%20Economic%20Impact/2020%20RVDA%20Economic%20Impa
ct%20Update%20%20-%20FINAL.pdf
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D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 2 Project Number 21-85154
whether further policy and regulatory amendments and provisions could be
implemented locally to address the identified issue.
Extensive background research has been conducted as part of the Study in order to
establish an understanding of the topic of RV storage as a whole, how it is impacted by
governing planning policies and how it has been addressed in other municipalities. The
background research also included a review of existing policies and provisions for RV
parking and storage in the Municipality, which are summarized in Section 2.2 below.
Consultation with interested parties has also been a key component to the Study.
Public surveys and a virtual open house, together with on-going communication with
Municipal Staff, residents and storage facility operators have been integral to defining
the concerns and desires of interested stakeholders. Section 3.0 of this report provides a
summary of the background research and public consultation process.
The policy and background research was used to identify options for consideration by
the Municipality in addressing commercial RV parking and storage in the countryside
area. The series of options, together with those identified as being key findings are
provided in Sections 4.0 and 5.0.
2.2 Terminology
For the purposes of this Report, the following provides definitions for key terms:
Recreational Vehicle (RV): any vehicle that is predominantly used for
recreational purposes, which may include recreational / camping trailers,
motorhomes, snowmobiles, boats and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).
Trailer: any vehicle that is designed to be drawn by a motor vehicle, and may
include recreational trailers, utility trailers and flatbed trailers, but does not
include truck-transport trailers.
Countryside Area: those lands within the Municipality which are located outside
of settlement areas, including lands designated Rural and Prime Agricultural in
the Municipality’s Official Plan.
Rural Lands: lands considered to be less productive for agricultural use, typically
class 4-7 soils, including lands designated Rural in the Municipality’s Official Plan.
Prime Agricultural Lands: lands considered to be the most productive for
agricultural use, typically class 1-3 soils, including lands designated Prime
Agricultural Area in the Municipality’s Official Plan.
Urban Area: those lands within the Municipality which are located within
settlement areas, including rural settlement areas, and include those lands
designated for residential, commercial and employment use in the Municipality’s
Official Plan.
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2.3 Existing Local Policy
The parking and storage of RVs and trailers in the Municipality is governed at a
municipal level by three planning documents: the Municipality of Clarington Official
Plan, Zoning By-law 84-63 and Zoning By-law 2005-109.
The Municipality of Clarington Official Plan (COP) provides the policy framework and
overall vision for land use and development in the Municipality. In general, the policies
of the COP promote complete communities, with people-oriented development,
together with the protection and creation of jobs and preservation of environmental
and agricultural lands.
The two zoning by-laws (ZBL) in effect for the Municipality are applied in conjunction
with the COP, and provide the specific standards that govern development. Zoning By-
law 2005-109 applies to lands that are located on the Oak Ridges Moraine (ORM).
Zoning By-law 84-63 applies to all lands within the Municipality that are located outside
of the ORM.
The policies and provisions of the COP and zoning by-laws as they affect both the
commercial and personal storage of RVs and trailers, are provided in the below
sections. It is noted that the COP underwent a complete review and update in 2017.
However, exercises to bring the two zoning by-laws into conformity with the updated
COP have not yet been completed. As such, the zoning by-laws may currently provide
for regulation which is not consistent with the updated land use vision for the
Municipality.
2.3.1 Municipality of Clarington Official Plan
Policies of the COP as they affect the parking and storage of RVs and trailers in the
countryside areas as well as open spaces areas are provided in Table 1. While not the
direct focus of this Study, policies affecting storage options on the employment
designated lands of the urban areas are also included to provide a complete policy
background, as the impacts of the countryside and urban policies are interconnected.
2.3.2 Municipality of Clarington Zoning By-laws
Current regulatory provisions in the Municipality’s Comprehensive Zoning Bylaws (84-63
and 2005-109) provide varying provisions for the storage of RVs and trailers in the urban
and countryside areas based on land use zones. These provisions are summarized in
Table 2 below.
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D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 4 Project Number 21-85154
Table 1 Existing Official Plan Policies Having Implications for RV Parking and Storage
Official Plan
Designation
Storage Policies Notes
Countryside Area
Prime Agricultural May be used for agricultural, agriculture-related and on-farm diversified
uses. On-farm diversified uses must be secondary to an agricultural use,
limited in area, compatible with surrounding land uses and not conflict
with, detract from or hinder agricultural operations.
These policies are provided in Section 13.4 and 13.3.2 of the
COP and reflect provincial policy (see Table 3) for permitted
uses on prime agricultural lands.
Rural May be used for agricultural, agriculture-related and on-farm diversified
uses. On-farm diversified uses must be secondary to an agricultural use,
limited in area, compatible with surrounding land uses and not conflict
with, detract from or hinder agricultural operations.
May be developed as a non-agricultural use where compatible, do not
require large scale modifications of terrain, conform to MDS, are
appropriate with lot size, and do not conflict, detract or hinder agricultural
operations.
These policies are provided in Section 13.5 and 13.3.2 of the
COP and reflect the provincial policy (see Table 3) for
permitted uses on rural lands.
Non-agricultural uses only permitted on rural designated lands
which are not considered to be prime agricultural, and are
subject to a site-specific zoning by-law amendment.
Open Space System
Environmental
Protection
Development is not permitted in the Environmental Protection Areas, with
certain exceptions for forest, fish and wildlife management; conservation
and flood or erosion control; transportation, infrastructure and utilities and
low intensity recreation.
These policies are provided in Section 14.4. and 3.4.8 of the
COP.
Environmental Protection areas include natural heritage
features and hydrologically sensitive features and a 30-metre
vegetative protection zone.
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D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 5 Project Number 21-85154
Official Plan
Designation
Storage Policies Notes
Natural Core Area,
Oak Ridges
Moraine
Development is not permitted in the Natural Core Area of the ORM, with
certain exceptions for agricultural uses, low intensity recreation, unserviced
parks and uses related to fish, wildlife and forest management
conservation projects, and flood and erosion control projects.
These policies are provided in Section 14.5 of the COP.
Natural Linkage
Area, Oak Ridges
Moraine
Development is not permitted in the Natural Linkage Area of the ORM with
exceptions for agricultural uses, home-based occupations, home
industries, bed and breakfast establishments, farm vacation homes, low-
intensity recreational uses, unserviced parks, and uses related to fish,
wildlife and forest management, conservation projects, and flood and
erosion control projects.
These policies are provided in Section 14.6 of the COP.
While home industries are permitted, the definition of home
industries in the COP does not include commercial storage.
Green Space Development is only permitted for conservation and recreational uses. These policies are provided in Section 14.7 of the COP.
Major recreational uses are only permitted by site-specific
amendment to the Official Plan.
Waterfront
Greenway
Development is only permitted for recreation, tourism, conservation and
agriculture.
These policies are provided in Section 14.8 of the COP.
Marinas and major recreational uses are only permitted by
site-specific amendment to the Official Plan.
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D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 6 Project Number 21-85154
Official Plan
Designation
Storage Policies Notes
Employment Areas
Business Parks Development is intended for employment intensive uses with a high
standard of building design and landscaping. A minimum of 30 jobs per
gross hectare is required.
These policies are provided in Section 11.4 of the COP and
are consistent with provincial and regional direction (see
Table 3).
Prestige
Employment Areas
Development is intended for employment intensive uses with a high
standard of building design and landscaping, specifically offices, research
buildings, commercial and technical schools and light industrial uses. A
minimum of 30 jobs per gross hectare is required.
These policies are provided in Section 11.5 of the COP and
are consistent with provincial and regional direction (see
Table 3).
Light Industrial
Areas
Development is intended for manufacturing, assembling, processing of
raw materials, fabricating, repairing, research and development and
warehousing. Outdoor storage is permitted only as an ancillary use to a
main building. A minimum of 30 jobs per gross hectare is required.
These policies are provided in Section 11.6 of the COP.
Outdoor storage is limited to a size 25% of the main building.
General Industrial
Areas
Development is intended for manufacturing, assembling, processing of
raw materials, fabricating, warehousing, repair and servicing operations.
Outdoor storage is permitted only as ancillary use to a main building.
These policies are provided in Section 11.7 of the COP.
Outdoor storage may be to a size 100% of the main building.
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D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 7 Project Number 21-85154
Table 2 Existing Zoning Provisions for Indoor and Outdoor Storage of RVs and Trailers
Zone Category Storage Provisions Notes
Zoning By-law 84-63
Urban
Residential Zones
(R1, R2, R3, R4)
A maximum of one (1) RV or trailer may be parked on a property.
RVs or trailers less than 5.5 metres in length or 2.4 metres in height may be parked on a driveway.
RVs or trailers less than 6 metres in length or 2.9 metres in height may be parked in a side or rear
yard, subject to setback requirements.
RVs or trailers greater than 5.5 metres in length or 2.4 metres in height may only be parked on a
driveway for a period not exceeding 120 hours in one calendar month, and must be 0.5 metres
from the street line.
Indoor storage is permitted within a garage, carport or other permitted accessory structure and is
not limited by number of RVs and trailers.
These provisions are outlined in Section
3.16 of the ZBL (Parking Area Regulations),
subsection (m) and are intended to apply
to personal storage/parking of RVs and
trailers on private property.
Rural Residential
(RC, RE, RH, RM,
RS) and
Agricultural
Zones (A)
A maximum of three (3) RVs or trailers may be parked on a property.
RVs or trailers may be parked on a driveway or within a side or rear yard, subject to setback
requirements.
Indoor storage is permitted within a garage, carport or other permitted accessory structure and is
not limited by number of RVs and trailers.
Commercial storage is not contemplated as a permitted use.
These provisions are outlined in Section
3.16 of the ZBL (Parking Area Regulations),
subsection (m) and are intended to apply
to personal storage/parking of RVs and
trailers on private property. Provisions for
permitted uses are provided in Sections 6,
7, 8, 9, 10, and 11.
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D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 8 Project Number 21-85154
Zone Category Storage Provisions Notes
Commercial and
Industrial Zones
(C1, MU, C2, C3,
C4, C5, C6, C7,
C8, C9, OC, M1,
MO1, MO2, ML1,
ML2, M-1, M-2,
MP3, MP4, M2,
M3)
Outdoor RV and trailer storage is only permitted as a right in the General Industrial (M2) Zone,
provided it is located in a rear or interior side yard and appropriately screened from adjacent
residential uses and public streets.
Indoor RV and trailer storage is only permitted as a right in the Light Industrial (M1) and General
Industrial (M2) Zones as a warehouse.
These provisions are provided in Section
24.1 and 24.3 of the ZBL and are intended
to provide direction for commercial
storage operations. Permitted uses for
commercial and industrial zones are
provided in Sections 16 through 25.
Zoning By-law 2005-109
Rural Settlement
(RS1) and
Agricultural
Zones (A)
A maximum of three (3) RVs or trailers may be parked on a driveway, side or rear yard. These provisions are outlined in Section 6.7
of the ZBL and are intended to apply to
personal storage/parking of RVs and
trailers on private property.
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D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 9 Project Number 21-85154
Research Background
The background research for the Study included a detailed policy review, as well as a
jurisdictional scan of similar and surrounding municipalities. A summary of the policy
review and findings from the jurisdictional scan are provided in the proceeding
sections.
The background research was also supplemented by public consultation, to identify
what the particular concerns, wants and needs are of the residents of the Municipality,
including those who may currently operate storage facilities. Key insights provided from
the public consultation process, including a description of mechanisms employed, are
also provided in the following sections of this Report.
3.1 Policy Review
Land use planning decisions are required to be consistent with the Provincial Policy
Statement, 2020 (PPS) and conform, or not conflict, with A Place to Grow: Growth Plan
for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, 2020 (Growth Plan), the Greenbelt Plan, 2017 (GBP),
the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan, 2017 (ORMPC), the Region of Durham
Official Plan (DROP) and the COP. Each of these governing documents provides
different policies which impact how lands may be utilized. The policies and their
implications for RV and trailer parking and storage are summarized in Table 3 below.
In general, these documents outline a policy framework which promotes the protection
of employment lands for high-intensity employment uses and the preservation of
resources of value, including prime agricultural lands and natural heritage features. As
noted in the table below, with respect to prime agricultural lands, the policies of these
planning documents only permit development of such for agriculture, agriculture-
related and on-farm diversified uses. Commercial development is not recognized as
permitted on prime agricultural lands. Similarly, the policies of these planning
documents restrict development in and adjacent to natural heritage features, so as to
protect the feature and their ecological function.
The policies of these planning documents also promote building complete
communities, which includes providing employment opportunities in urban areas. As
such, these policies promote the establishment of high-employment generating uses on
employment lands, including commercial and industrial designated lands. As per the
COP, employment uses are to achieve a minimum of 30 jobs per gross hectare,
especially on lands within the Prestige Employment, Business Park and Light Industrial
designations. Storage facilities, typically being of low-employment generation, are
likewise not contemplated or promoted for establishment on employment lands.
These policies, when applied together, limit the options for establishing commercial
storage facilities in a manner which respects and conforms to the governing planning
legislation; and restricts the options for permitting such in accordance with provincial,
regional and local direction.
RV and Trailer Parking and Storage Study Final Report
Municipality of Clarington
D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 10 Project Number 21-85154
Table 3 Provincial, Regional and Local Policy Having Implications for RV and Trailer Parking and Storage by Land Category
Land
Category
PPS Growth Plan GBP ORMCP DROP COP Overall
Prime
Agricultural
Lands
To be protected
for long term
use for
agriculture. May
be used for
agriculture,
agriculture-
related and on-
farm diversified
uses. Non-
agricultural uses
permitted
subject to
meeting certain
criteria as
outlined in
Section 2.3.6.1.
To be
protected for
long term use
for agriculture.
May be used
for agriculture,
agriculture-
related and
on-farm
diversified
uses. Where
agricultural
uses and non-
agricultural
uses,
interface,
compatibility is
to be
achieved by
avoiding,
minimizing
and mitigating
adverse
impacts on
the
Agricultural
System.
May be used for
agriculture,
agriculture-
related and on-
farm diversified
uses, including
home industries.
On-farm
diversified uses
are to be in
accordance
with provincial
guidelines
(Publication
851). Land uses
are to comply
with MDS and
avoid, minimize
and mitigate
impacts on the
Agricultural
System.
May be used for
agriculture, agriculture-
related and on-farm
diversified uses.
Outside of Natural Core
areas, may be used for
home industries, which
include RV storage where
it is located on a farm
(see definition of home
industry, Section 3 of
ORMCP).
May be used for
agriculture, agriculture-
related and secondary
uses1, however such
secondary uses are
limited to home
occupations/businesses,
bed and breakfast
establishments and
farm vacation homes
unless the area
municipal Official Plan
has been amended.
Non-agricultural uses
are limited to forest, fish
and wildlife
management,
conservation,
infrastructure,
aggregate extraction
and existing uses.
May be used for
agriculture,
agriculture-related
and on-farm
diversified uses.
On-farm
diversified uses are
only permitted
provided it is
secondary to an
agricultural use,
limited in area,
compatible with
surrounding land
uses and does not
conflict with,
detract from or
hinder agricultural
operations.
May only be
used for
agriculture,
agriculture-
related and
on-farm
diversified
uses, including
home
industries, and
must be
compatible
with the
agricultural
landscape.
RV and Trailer Parking and Storage Study Final Report
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D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 11 Project Number 21-85154
Land
Category
PPS Growth Plan GBP ORMCP DROP COP Overall
Rural Lands May be used for
a permitted on-
farm diversified
use, home
industry,
resource based
recreational
uses or other
rural land uses.
However, rural
settlements are
the preferred
location for
growth in the
overall rural
area.
Diversification of
the rural
economy is
promoted.
May be used
for resource-
based
recreational
uses or other
rural land uses
where
compatible
with the rural
landscape
and
surrounding
land uses and
will be
sustained by
rural service
levels.
May be used for
on-farm
diversified uses in
accordance
with provincial
guidelines
(Publication
851). Non-
agricultural uses
may be
permitted where
appropriate and
where there are
no impacts to
natural heritage
features or
functions. Land
uses are to
comply with
MDS and avoid,
minimize and
mitigate impacts
on the
Agricultural
System.
Outside of Natural Core
areas, including within
Natural Linkage areas,
may be used for home
industries, which include
RV storage where it is
located on a farm (see
definition of home
industry, Section 3 of
ORMCP).
Outside of Natural Core
and Natural Linkage
areas, may be used for
on-farm diversified uses.
Outside of Natural Core
and Natural Linkage
areas, may be used for
small scale-commercial
and industrial uses where
supportive of surrounding
land uses and do not
require large-scale
modification of terrain or
large-scale buildings and
structures.
May be used for
agriculture, agriculture-
related and secondary
uses1, however such
secondary uses are
limited to home
occupations/businesses,
bed and breakfast
establishments and
farm vacation homes
unless the area
municipal Official Plan
has been amended.
Non-agricultural uses
are limited to forest, fish
and wildlife
management,
conservation,
infrastructure,
aggregate extraction
and existing uses.
May be
developed as an
on-farm diversified
use, provided it is
secondary to an
agricultural use,
limited in area,
compatible with
surrounding land
uses and does not
conflict, detract or
hinder agricultural
operations.
May be
developed as a
non-agricultural
use where
compatible, do
not require large
scale
modifications of
terrain, conforms
to MDS, be
appropriate with
lot size, do not
conflict, detract or
hinder agricultural
operations.
May only be
developed as
an on-farm
diversified use
/ home
industry; or as
a non-
agricultural
use where
large scale
modifications
of terrain or
buildings are
not required.
Must be
compatible
with
agricultural
operations.
Home
industries must
demonstrate
that they
comply with
the provisions
for such in the
DROP and
COP.
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D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 12 Project Number 21-85154
Land
Category
PPS Growth Plan GBP ORMCP DROP COP Overall
Environmental
Features
Development
and site
alteration is not
permitted in
significant
wetlands and
significant
coastal
wetlands.
Development
may only be
permitted in
certain other
significant
features where
it has been
demonstrated
there will be no
negative
impact.
Development
and site
alteration is
not permitted
in key natural
heritage
features or key
hydrologic
features.2
Development
and site
alteration is not
permitted in key
hydrologic
features or in key
natural heritage
features within
the Natural
Heritage System.
Development and site
alteration is not permitted
in key natural heritage
features and key
hydrologic features.
Development and site
alteration is not
permitted in key natural
heritage features and
hydrologic features.
Development and
site alteration is
not permitted in
the Environmental
Protection Areas,
or natural heritage
features and
hydrologically
sensitive features.3
Development is
not permitted in
the Natural Core
Area of the ORM.
Development and
site alteration is
not permitted in
the Natural
Linkage Area of
the ORM.
Development
and site
alteration is
not permitted
within key
features.
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Municipality of Clarington
D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 13 Project Number 21-85154
Land
Category
PPS Growth Plan GBP ORMCP DROP COP Overall
Buffer Zones
(to
Environmental
Features)
Development
and site
alteration is only
permitted
adjacent to
significant
features where
it has been
demonstrated
there will be no
negative
impact.
Development
and site
alteration is
not permitted
in vegetative
protection
zone, with
exceptions for
expansions of
on-farm
diversified
uses.2
Development
and site
alteration is not
permitted in any
associated
vegetative
protection zone.
Development and site
alteration is not permitted
in any associated
vegetative protection
zone.
Development and site
alteration is not
permitted in any
associated vegetative
protection zone.
Development is
not permitted in
the Environmental
Protection Areas,
including the
vegetation
protection zone3.
Development
is not
permitted in
the vegetative
protection
zone
associated
with
environmental
features.
Employment
Lands
To be protected
for current and
future uses.
To be
protected for
appropriate
employment
use with focus
on increasing
employment
densities.
NA NA To maximize
employment potential.
To actively
achieve higher
employment
densities
(minimum 30 jobs
per gross
hectares),
especially in
Business Parks and
Prestige
Employment
Areas.
May be
developed for
a variety of
employment
uses but are
typically
promoted for
use by high
employment
densities.
1. Durham Region is currently completing a Municipal Comprehensive Review (MCR). Through the MCR, it is currently proposed that the provisions for secondary uses be updated to on-farm diversified uses.
2. Policies pertaining to key natural heritage features are not yet in effect. These policies will come into effect once the Natural Heritage System is implemented in the Region of Durham Official Plan.
3. Policy currently under appeal in the Municipality of Clarington Official Plan.
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Municipality of Clarington
D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 14 Project Number 21-85154
3.2 Jurisdictional Scan
Eleven (11) municipalities were included in the jurisdictional scan for the Study, including
the following:
Durham Region
o Ajax
o Brock
o Oshawa
o Scugog
o Whitby
Town of Lindsay (Kawartha Lakes)
Port Hope (Northumberland County)
Cavan-Monaghan (Peterborough County)
Georgina (York Region)
City of Belleville
City of Quinte West
Provisions for outdoor storage varied across all municipalities assessed. Most
municipalities (10/11) recognized outdoor storage as a permitted use in either an
industrial or commercial zone; save and except the Town of Lindsay, where outside
storage is prohibited. Outdoor storage was largely recognized as a general use, and
not specifically defined for RV and trailer storage. Where permitted in industrial and
commercial zones, outside storage was required across all municipalities to be
accessory to the main use. Specific setback, buffering and lot coverage regulations
were also introduced in many municipalities, to varying degrees.
Most municipalities (9/11) also recognized outdoor storage as permitted on a private
residential property, subject to certain restrictions. Restrictions varied across
municipalities, but generally included restrictions on:
Number of RVs and trailers;
Size of RVs and trailers; and
Location (side or rear yard).
The number of RVs and trailers permitted by the municipalities also varied. Between 1
and 2 were generally permitted in the urban area, with between 2 and 6 permitted in
countryside areas. Other approaches, as an alternative to specifying the number of RVs
RV and Trailer Parking and Storage Study Final Report
Municipality of Clarington
D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 15 Project Number 21-85154
permitted, included restricting RVs and trailers based on lot coverage. A summary of
the jurisdictional scan is provided in Appendix A.
3.3 Public Consultation Findings
As part of the Study, a landing page was created on the Municipality’s website to
provide a dedicated resource page for those interested in the Study to gather
information. The landing page was published in early April, and was updated to provide
links to the online surveys, discussed further below. Information on the virtual public
open house, also detailed below, was likewise published on the landing page. Notice
of the Study, surveys and virtual public open house was also provided on the
Municipality’s online newsfeed. Updates on the Study and public feedback and
consultation opportunities were also provided through the Municipality’s Planning
Updates.
Two online surveys were released to gather input on RV and trailer parking and storage.
These surveys were published on the Municipality’s website in April, and closed in May
17, 2021. Notice of the surveys was provided via the Municipality’s online newsfeed,
Planning Updates and in the local newspaper. Direct mailings were also issued to a list
of interested parties, as informed by the Municipality.
The first survey was designed to collect general public feedback on the demands and
challenges for RV and trailer parking and storage in the Municipality. The survey
received 287 responses.
Key insights from the survey for the general public are outlined in Table 4 below.
Table 4 Key Insights from Public Survey
Insights from Survey Takers Data Indicator
Average Number of RVs or Trailers Owned 2.07
Storage of at least one (1) RV or trailer on Personal
Property
48.1%
Storage of at least one (1) RV or trailer at Storage
Facility (commercial and non-commercial)
86.4%
Storing at Private (non-commercial) Facility 78.8%
Using Indoor Storage 8%
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D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 16 Project Number 21-85154
Those survey takers who live in an urban area were more likely to store their RV or trailer
elsewhere; versus those who lived in the countryside area. Proximity to the home
location, as well as cost, were noted as the two most important factors in RV and trailer
storage, with outdoor storage being the most prevalent storage type utilized, as
indicated by survey participants. Majority of participants in the survey (69%) indicated
storage was hard to come by within the Municipality.
The second survey was designed to collect feedback specifically from the operators of
RV and trailer storage facilities. The survey received 20 responses. Accounting for
anomalies in the data, the information gathered indicated that upwards of 670 RVs and
trailers were stored by the 20 respondents; with mean and media storage numbers
being 35 and 12, respectively. Most respondents to this survey also indicated a desire to
increase storage capacity, with a cumulative total of 2,103 desired storage spaces. The
mean and median desired storage numbers as indicated by the respondents were 111
and 25, respectively. These numbers were specific to outdoor storage, and did not
capture indoor storage provided or desired by operators. Similar to the general public,
respondents to the operator survey generally agreed (75%) that storage in the
Municipality was hard to come by.
A virtual open house was also held on May 12, 2021, and was advertised using the
same mechanisms as described above. The open house had over 60 participants,
generally identifying as members of the public with a few RV storage providers also in
attendance.
The commentary from those participating in the open house generally echoed that
which was received through the surveys. Key concerns expressed at the open house
included the following:
1. Storage demand is exceeding supply.
2. RV Storage is part of a larger economic industry that helps support local
businesses.
3. Some equity amongst businesses in the urban versus the countryside areas may
need to be considered.
4. Aesthetics are a required consideration in both the urban and countryside areas.
5. Storage on agricultural land is desired.
Polls issued at the conclusion of the open house also indicated that of those
participating, 90% believed the existing provisions in the countryside area were too
strict, with 61% indicating the same for the urban area. Approximately 89% also
indicated that they either agree or strongly agree that the Municipality needs more
parking and storage opportunities for RVs and trailers.
RV and Trailer Parking and Storage Study Final Report
Municipality of Clarington
D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 17 Project Number 21-85154
Identified Options
Based on the background review and comments received during public consultation,
several options for amending the existing policy framework were identified for
consideration. While it is recognized that the focus of the Study was to identify options
to address commercial storage in the countryside areas, the background review
confirmed that immediate solutions that maintain conformity with prevailing policy are
highly limited.
Therefore, in order to provide more readily achievable policy options for addressing or
otherwise alleviating RV and trailer parking and storage in the countryside areas,
options regarding personal storage and enhancements to storage opportunities in the
urban area were also identified for consideration. These options are intended to
complement the longer-term options that would address commercial storage in the
countryside areas.
All policy options reasonably considered throughout the course of the Study are
presented in Table 5 below, which outlines the benefits, drawbacks, implementation
mechanism and potential timing for each. Policy options are generally intended to
address outdoor storage, as indoor storage has not been identified as an item of
concern to the Municipality, and was likewise deemed a low priority during the public
consultation process. The summary table also indicates which key conclusions are
preferred for further evaluation and consideration by the Municipality. The key
conclusions are further discussed in Section 5.0.
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D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 18 Project Number 21-85154
Table 5 Evaluation of Proposed Policy Options
Policy Option Benefits Drawbacks Implementation Considered
Feasible for
Implementation
1. Maintain Status
Quo. No additional resources required.
No additional information sharing
required for Staff and public to
understand new provisions.
Does not address existing land use concerns.
Does not address comments received from public
consultation.
None. Maintain
existing policies and
provisions.
No – does not
resolve existing
conditions.
2. Increase
Permitted
Number of RVs
and Trailers
Stored Outdoors
in Urban Areas
(Personal).
Enables owners to utilize their own
property for storage. May alleviate
some demand for commercial
storage in the countryside area.
May negatively impact aesthetics of urban areas.
Does not address comments received from public
consultation indicating that storage on personal
property in the urban areas is not overly desired
given aesthetic and functional concerns.
Would be expected to have minimal overall impact
to addressing the demand for storage facilities.
Zoning By-law
Amendment
Immediate/Short-
term.
No. However,
amendments to
other provisions
could be
considered.
See Section 5.0 –
Recommendation
1.
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Municipality of Clarington
D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 19 Project Number 21-85154
Policy Option Benefits Drawbacks Implementation Considered
Feasible for
Implementation
3. Increased
Permitted
Number of RVs
and Trailers
Stored Outdoors
in Countryside
Area (Personal).
Enables owners to utilize own
property for storage. May alleviate
some demand for commercial
storage in the countryside area.
Addresses public comments
received that outdoor storage is
needed and should be permitted in
the countryside area.
May negatively impact aesthetics depending on
number permitted and property size.
Potential for impact to agricultural resources,
depending on scale. Also potential for impact to
natural heritage resources if not otherwise identified
and protected in the COP and Zoning By-laws.
While anticipated to alleviate some level of
demand for storage facilities, would not serve to
address the long-term use of countryside properties
for commercial storage.
Zoning By-law
Amendment –
Immediate/Short-
term.
Yes – subject to
provisions.
See Section 5.0 –
Recommendation
2.
4. Permit
Commercial
Storage in the
Countryside
Area.
Addresses public comments
received that outdoor storage is
needed and should be permitted in
the countryside area.
May negatively impact aesthetics.
Potential for impact to agricultural resources,
depending on scale. Also potential for impact to
natural heritage resources if not otherwise identified
and protected in the COP and Zoning By-laws.
Potential to conflict with provincial and regional
policy as per Section 3.0 if not established as an on-
farm diversified use recognized by the DROP.
Official Plan
Amendment –
through Official Plan
Update.
Zoning By-law
Amendment –
through Zone
Clarington.
Yes – subject to
provisions and
only as an on-
farm diversified
use.
See Section 5.0 –
Recommendation
3.
Background Review and Best Practices Report
Municipality of Clarington
D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 20 Project Number 21-85154
Policy Option Benefits Drawbacks Implementation Considered
Feasible for
Implementation
5. Permit
Commercial
Storage on small
Countryside Lots
used primarily for
residential
purposes.
Addresses public comments
received that outdoor storage is
needed and should be permitted in
the countryside area.
Provides an alternative land use for
small lots (e.g. less than 5 acres) that
may not be functional for
agriculture.
May negatively impact aesthetics and create other
land use incompatibility concerns.
Potential for impact to agricultural resources,
depending on scale. Also potential for impact to
natural heritage resources if not otherwise identified
and protected in the COP and Zoning By-laws.
Potential to conflict with provincial and regional
policy as per Section 3.0 if not established as an on-
farm diversified use recognized by the DROP.
May lead to increased fragmentation of the
agricultural land base.
Official Plan
Amendment –
through Official Plan
Update.
Zoning By-law
Amendment –
Immediate or
through Zone
Clarington.
No – policy only
permits such use
to be established
as an OFDU,
which is not likely
to be feasible on
smaller lots, as the
primary
agricultural use is
likely not existent.
6. Implement a
Rural Zone that
reflects the Rural
Lands
designation and
Permits
Commercial
Storage.
Addresses public comments
received that outdoor storage is
needed and should be permitted in
the Countryside Area.
Provides an alternative land use on
lands that may not be prime
agricultural.
May negatively impact aesthetics.
Potential for impact to agricultural resources,
depending on scale. Also potential for impact to
natural heritage resources if not otherwise identified
and protected in the COP and Zoning By-laws.
Potential to conflict with provincial and regional
policy as per Section 3.0 by fragmentation of the
greater agricultural area.
Official Plan
Amendment –
through Official Plan
Update.
Zoning By-law
Amendment –
through Zone
Clarington.
No – potential for
fragmentation of
land base
presents obstacle
to policy
conformity.
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D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 21 Project Number 21-85154
Policy Option Benefits Drawbacks Implementation Considered
Feasible for
Implementation
7. Expand
Employment
Zones where
Commercial
Storage would be
Permitted,
including
Commercial
Storage as a
secondary use.
Addresses public comments that
additional outdoor storage is
needed.
Preserves agricultural and natural
heritage resources and lessens
opportunity for conflict and impacts
on these resources.
Directs development to settlement
areas in accordance with the
provincial, regional and local
planning policy of Section 3.0.
Does not address public comments that outdoor
storage is needed and should be permitted in the
countryside area.
Potential to conflict with provincial, regional and
local planning policy as per Section 3.0 if
established on lands intended for higher
employment densities.
Potential to result in higher storage costs which was
indicated by the public as a primary factor in
choosing storage facilities.
Official Plan
Amendment –
Immediate or
through Official Plan
Update.
Zoning By-law
Amendment –
Immediate or
through Zone
Clarington.
Temporary Use By-
law.
Yes – subject to
provisions to
ensure minimum
employment
densities can be
met.
See Section 5.0 –
Recommendation
4.
8. Permit
Commercial
Storage as a
Temporary Use in
Employment
Area.
Addresses public comments that
additional outdoor storage is
needed.
Preserves agricultural and natural
heritage resources and lessens
opportunity for conflict and impacts
on these resources.
Directs development to settlement
areas in accordance with the
Does not address public comments that outdoor
storage is needed and should be permitted in the
countryside area.
Potential to conflict with provincial, regional and
local planning policy as per Section 3.0 if
established on lands intended for higher
employment densities. Although intended to be
temporary, the actual temporary nature of the use
may be difficult to enforce and monitor, and may
establish over time as a more permanent use in
contrast to the land use intended.
Official Plan
Amendment –
Immediate or
through Official Plan
Update.
Zoning By-law
Amendment –
Immediate or
through Zone
Clarington.
No – would not
be consistent with
provincial and
regional planning
policy.
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D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 22 Project Number 21-85154
Policy Option Benefits Drawbacks Implementation Considered
Feasible for
Implementation
provincial, regional and local
planning policy of Section 3.0.
May provide an interim use on lands
that would otherwise be
underutilized.
Potential to result in higher storage costs which was
indicated by the public as a primary factor in
choosing storage facilities.
Temporary Use By-
law.
9. Permit
Commercial
Storage on
Agricultural Lands
within the Urban
Boundary.
Addresses public comments that
additional outdoor storage is
needed.
Directs development to settlement
areas in accordance with the
provincial, regional and local
planning policy of Section 3.0.
Potential to conflict with provincial, regional and
local planning policy as per Section 3.0 if
established on lands designated for higher
employment densities.
Potential to present land use compatibility issues as
urban development expands into these areas.
Official Plan
Amendment –
through Official Plan
Update.
Zoning By-law
Amendment –
through Zone
Clarington.
Yes.
See Section 5.0 –
Recommendation
5.
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D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 23 Project Number 21-85154
Key Findings
As noted herein, prevailing provincial, regional and local planning policy contribute to
the complexity of establishing options to address commercial RV and trailer parking
and storage in the countryside area. There are several competing land use planning
interests, including the protection of employment areas and preservation of agricultural
lands, which must be considered in developing appropriate policy options.
Several of the policy options as outlined in Section 4.0 have not been identified as
having potential for implementation, given the associated negative impacts and lack
of conformity to governing planning policy. However, subject to further refinement to
reflect the local context of the Municipality, there are policy options which the
Municipality can pursue in the short and long term that can make a substantive impact
on RV and trailer parking and storage across the Municipality, including within the
countryside areas. These policy options are described in further detail below. It is noted
however that each of these may still have limitations due to prevailing provincial policy,
and as such any proposed amendments would need to be careful considered in that
context.
1. Amendments to Existing Urban Provisions to Enhance Clarity and Function.
Through the consultation process it was suggested that the provisions for RV and
trailer storage in the urban area are not easily interpreted by members of the
general public. Based on public feedback, it is recommended that
consideration be given to the following minor amendments to the Zoning By-law
in order to enhance clarity by the public:
Provide clarity on what is included in the definition of an RV and trailer;
Ensure consistent use of definitions throughout and across both Zoning By-
law 84-63 and Zoning By-law 2005-109; and
Clarify that personal (i.e. non-commercial) storage indoors on a private
property is not subject to the existing limits on RV and trailer numbers.
Through the consultation process it was also brought to attention that existing
provisions in the urban area provide increased difficulty in function and
enforcement for oversized trailers. While not specifically subject to the scope of
this Study, it is also recommended that the existing provision on the number of
hours (i.e. 120 hours per calendar month) an oversized RV or trailer may be
parked on a driveway in the urban area be replaced with a policy which permits
parking of such trailers during the active season (i.e. April 1 to October 31), similar
to an approach taken by the Town of Georgina. The Municipality should
evaluate this option in the context of local character.
2. Develop and Implement RV Storage Provisions by Lot Size for Personal Storage
in the Countryside Area.
As currently in effect, existing provisions for RV and trailer parking and storage
permit a maximum of three (3) RVs and trailers on a lot in the Rural Residential
(RC, RE, RH, RM, RS) and Agricultural Zones (A) of Zoning By-law 84-63 and Rural
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D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 24 Project Number 21-85154
Settlement (RS1) and Agricultural Zones (A) of Zoning By-law 2005-109, regardless
of the lot size.
In order to provide increased flexibility, and permit a greater number of RVs and
trailers to be stored in the countryside areas, it is recommended that the
provisions be amended to permit a greater number of RVs and trailers to be
stored on lots of greater sizes. These provisions are not intended to facilitate
commercial storage in the countryside area, but rather provide increased limits
for personal storage on properties of certain sizes, which may help to alleviate
the requirement for large-scale commercial facilities in the countryside areas
and particularly on prime agricultural lands.
This approach also has the potential to bring some properties into conformity
with the Zoning By-law. Certain of the sites assessed via aerial imagery during the
background review were noted to provide storage in excess of the Zoning By-
law provisions, while actual storage numbers on the properties were low (i.e. less
than ten).
A tiered system is suggested should the Municipality decide to implement this
approach. While the lot sizes and number of RVs can be further defined through
the Zoning By-law Amendment process, the following is recommended for
consideration:
Rural Residential or Agricultural zoned lot between 0.69 acres and 5 acres:
Maximum three (3).
Rural residential or Agricultural zoned lot greater than 5 acres: Maximum
six (6).
These provisions would be enforced with the existing and/or amended provisions
regarding location in the side and rear yards to ensure compatibility continues to
be maintained with adjacent land uses and that storage is sensitive to the
aesthetics of the area and local character.
3. Develop and Implement Policy Framework for On-Farm Diversified Uses.
Feedback from the public consultation process emphasized that there is an
appetite by the public for RV storage facilities in the countryside area; and that
this is desired given the overall limited availability of storage facilities in the
Municipality. However, as detailed in Section 3.1, existing provincial, regional and
local planning policy highly restricts development on prime agricultural lands in
the countryside area. Non-agricultural development is generally only permitted
as an on-farm diversified use (OFDU), or otherwise requires site-specific planning
approvals to be permitted in the Municipality.
ODFUs are guided by documentation from the Province, specifically Publication
851: Guidelines on Permitted Uses in Ontario’s Prime Agricultural Areas. This
publication outlines five (5) key criteria for OFDUs which are to be considered
when determining if a use may be permitted on prime agricultural lands. These
criteria include:
Background Review and Best Practices Report
Municipality of Clarington
D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 25 Project Number 21-85154
The use must be located on a farm.
The use must be secondary to the principal agricultural use of the farm.
The use must be limited in area.
The use may include, but is not limited to, home occupations, home
industries, agri-tourism uses and uses that produce value-added
agricultural products.
Shall be compatible with, and shall not hinder, surrounding agricultural
operations.
While the Province outlines guidelines to evaluate OFDU’s, each local
municipality is able to establish their own criteria, which may be more stringent
that the Provincial guidelines. The existing COP permits OFDUs and builds further
upon the policies of Publication 851. However, the implementation of these
policies is required to conform to the DROP, which only contemplates OFDUs
where they are directly related or devoted to the farm operation. As such,
OFDU’s which are not intrinsically tied to agriculture are not currently
contemplated. That being the case, while considering RV and trailer storage as
an OFDU may be an option warranting further consideration, this would require
consultation with the Region in order to ensure that policies developed in this
respect maintain conformity to the DROP.
It is also noted that provisions for allowing OFDUs in Agricultural zoned areas have
not been established. Therefore, in developing a local policy framework for
OFDUs it is recommended that the Municipality consider and implement
provisions in both the Official Plan and Zoning By-law to address such. In
generating these policies, it is further noted that OFDUs form part of a much
larger and more complex land use planning consideration, and may be
applicable to a variety of uses, beyond RV and trailer parking and storage. As
such, it is suggested that in preparing a local policy framework for OFDUs the
Municipality consider all possibilities, not just RV and trailer storage, and develop
criteria in light of such. This being the case, it is anticipated that development of
such a framework may be appropriate through the comprehensive Official Plan
Update, to follow the Region of Durham’s Municipal Comprehensive Review.
In consideration of this suggested framework, it is also advised that the
Municipality consider a two-prong approach to regulating and permitting
OFDU’s, guided by a set of evaluation criteria including an required site
alteration, traffic generation, required servicing, agricultural rehabilitation
potential, provision of screening and site design. Point systems can be assigned
to the evaluation criteria. For those proposals which are seen as most
compatible with the agricultural system and intent of the OFDUs policies, the
Municipality may consider subjecting such only to a site plan approval or scoped
site plan approval process. However, for more complex proposals, these may be
subject to a site-specific rezoning and site plan approval process. These criteria
would need to be incorporated into the Official Plan policies to be developed.
Background Review and Best Practices Report
Municipality of Clarington
D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 26 Project Number 21-85154
4. Enhance Existing Policy Framework for RV Storage in Employment Areas.
In conjunction with developing the OFDU framework, it is recommended that the
Municipality consider enhancing the existing policy framework for RV Storage in
employment areas.
As existing, outdoor storage in the Municipality is permitted in the General
Industrial (M2) Zone. Outdoor storage is not permitted in the other employment
zones; which reflects the provincial, regional and local policy that states that
employment lands are to be preserved for more employment intensive uses
(minimum 30 jobs per gross hectare as per COP). Given the provincial, regional
and local policy direction for employment uses, the current provisions for outdoor
storage being only permitted in the M2 Zone are considered appropriate.
Likewise, it is not recommended that outdoor storage be permitted as a main
use in the commercial, office park and prestige employment areas of the
Municipality where higher density employment is directed. However, to further
enhance the existing policy framework and provide additional opportunity for
RV storage in employment areas it is recommended that the Municipality
consider permitting outdoor storage as a secondary use. However, in order to
ensure consistency with provincial, regional and local policy, storage should only
be considered as a secondary use to specific associated uses, including RV sales
and services establishments, permitted in the Special Purpose Commercial (C4
and C5) Zone. In this case, the outdoor storage would not be subject to
accessory outdoor storage provisions; but rather new provisions for outdoor
storage as a secondary use would be established. An additional and important
component of any new provisions would be to include limits to the scale of the
secondary use, which could be implemented through provisions such as lot
coverage.
This approach, while not applying specifically to the countryside areas, would
enhance the potential for commercial RV and trailer storage in the Municipality.
As storage would be required to be secondary to another commercial use, this
approach provides an option for the Municipality to increase available storage
while not offending either the employment or agricultural policies of the
governing planning documents.
Another component of this approach could be to allow commercial RV and
trailer storage through a temporary use by-law on employment lands. However,
as temporary use by-laws are required to conform to the Official Plan, an
amendment would also be required to the COP to recognize the potential for
this temporary use. Utilizing a temporary use by-law would provide for
commercial establishment of storage facilities on a site-specific basis.
5. Develop Local Policy Framework to Permit RV Storage on Agricultural Lands
Located within the Urban Boundary.
As mentioned throughout this Report, the prevailing policies which direct the
preservation of agricultural lands and the protection of employment lands for
high-employment uses present a challenge as it pertains to commercial storage
Background Review and Best Practices Report
Municipality of Clarington
D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 27 Project Number 21-85154
as it represents a potentially incompatible land use, whether it is located within
the urban or the countryside areas.
However, within the Municipality, there may be vacant lands which previously
formed part of the countryside area and have since been incorporated within
the urban boundary. That being the case, although these lands often continue
to support agricultural uses until development extends to those areas, being
within the settlement boundary they are not required to adhere to stringent
agricultural planning policies. Further, although they are ultimately intended for
higher density uses, the provision of a “future development” designation on
these lands can provide flexibility in the interim, before being designated for a
specific urban use, be it residential or employment. As such, these vacant urban
lands present an opportunity for interim uses which may not otherwise be
considered consistent with either urban or countryside planning policy.
As such, the Municipality may consider developing Official Plan policy that
would identify that on such lands, certain interim uses may be allowed, such as
RV and trailer storage. These uses may not be compatible with long-term urban
development, but may present a logical option at present, as they would be
proximal to the existing built up area, without utilizing employment lands. To note,
as development expands and the vision for the lands is refined, the use would
cease through the required re-designation or rezoning of the lands.
Accompanying Zoning By-law provisions could be introduced which permit RV
and trailer storage (or other interim uses) to only those lands identified
appropriately in the Municipality’s Official Plan. Further Official Plan policy could
be incorporated to ensure that appropriate urban or employment uses would
take precedent over established interim uses. To ensure the use is temporary in
nature, site-specific temporary use by-laws could be applied for commercial RV
and trailer storage facilities proposed on these lands.
Conclusions
The parking and storage of RVs and trailers is a complex land use planning issue, guided
by various planning policies. In order to be effective, the local policy framework for RV
parking and storage needs to conform to the applicable governing planning
documents, while ensuring the concerns and needs of the public are satisfied.
Conflicting land use planning policies for employment and agricultural lands present a
challenge for uses such as commercial storage; and immediate solutions to resolving
such are largely not feasibly from a policy conformity perspective.
This report has summarized the planning policies applicable to RV and trailer parking
and storage in the Municipality, while providing an overview of public priorities as heard
through the consultation process.
Based on a review of policy and public feedback, several options were identified and
which were further assessed, resulting in five (5) key findings for further consideration
and potential implementation. These findings are intended to present the Municipality
with short-term options to alleviate demand in the countryside area, while addressing
commercial RV storage through larger planning processes in the long-term. The findings
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Municipality of Clarington
D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 28 Project Number 21-85154
provided herein are intended to provide greater flexibility for RV and trailer parking and
storage in the urban and countryside areas, while ensuring that the provincial, regional
and local planning objectives as they pertain to employment, agricultural and natural
resources are upheld.
Appendix A
Jurisdictional Scan
Appendix A
Jurisdictional Scan
D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 1 Project Number 21-85154
Municipality RV and Trailer Definitions RV Storage Definitions Indoor Storage Provisions Outdoor Storage Provisions
Clarington
Zoning By-law
84-63
Recreational Vehicle A motorized or non-
motorized vehicle that is used
predominantly for recreational purposes,
including, but not limited to, mobile
recreational trailers, snowmobiles, boats,
personal watercraft and all-terrain vehicles.
Trailer Shall mean any vehicle that is
designed to be drawn upon a highway by
a motor vehicle, except an implement of
husbandry, another motor vehicle or any
device or apparatus not designed to
transport persons or property temporarily
drawn, propelled or moved upon such
highway. A trailer shall be considered a
separate vehicle and not part of the motor
vehicle by which it is drawn, and, from the
purposes of this By-law does not include a
mobile home as defined herein.
Recreational Vehicle Storage A
commercial establishment for the storage
of licensed recreational vehicles and their
trailers.
Permitted as “warehouse” in M1
and M2 Zones. Urban
One (1) RV or trailer not exceeding 5.5 m length
or 2.4 m height on driveway
o If of greater size, only for 120 hours per
calendar month
Or, One (1) RV or trailer not exceeding 6 m
length or 2.9 m height in side or rear yard
Rural
Maximum three (3) RVs or trailers in any side or
rear yard
Industrial
Permitted where accessory to permitted use in
M2 Zone
Permitted under storage area for boats and
trailers in M2 Zone
Clarington
Zoning By-law
2005-109
Recreational Motor Vehicle A motor
vehicle constructed as a self-propelled and
self-contained unit that is capable of being
utilized for the sleeping, eating and living
accommodation of one or more persons
on a temporary basis.
Recreational Vehicle A vehicle that is used
predominantly for recreational purposes,
including recreational trailers, snowmobiles,
motorized and non-motorized boats,
personal watercraft, all-terrain vehicles and
recreational motor vehicles.
Recreational Trailer A trailer constructed as
a self-contained unit, capable of being
utilized for the temporary living, sleeping, or
eating accommodations of one or more
persons.
Recreational Vehicle Storage A
commercial establishment for the storage
of licensed recreational vehicles and their
trailers.
Not specifically contemplated. Rural
Maximum three (3) RVs or trailers in any side or
rear yard. To be setback 5 metres. If within 15
metres of a Rural Settlement Zone or a lot with a
dwelling, to be setback 10 metres.
Appendix A
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D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 2 Project Number 21-85154
Municipality RV and Trailer Definitions RV Storage Definitions Indoor Storage Provisions Outdoor Storage Provisions
Ajax Zoning
By-law 95-
2003
Not defined Not explicitly defined Public storage facility permitted in
Prestige Employment and General
Employment Zones
Industrial
Permitted in General Employment and Heavy
Employment Zones where:
o accessory to main use
o not more than 50% of site
o not visible from street; enclosed by 1.8 m
fence and storage not higher than 1.8 m
o in rear yard
o 9 m setback to street
o 15 m setback to Residential Zone
Brock Zoning
By-law 287-
78-PL
Motorized mobile home: any motor vehicle
so constructed as to be self-contained, self-
propelled, capable for the living, sleeping
or eating accommodation of persons
Not explicitly defined May be permitted in M1 and M2 as
a warehouse In conjunction with single-family or seasonal
dwelling:
Maximum two (2) of boat, tourist trailer,
motorized mobile home, truck camper or similar
o Side or rear yard
o Boats < 7.3 m
o Others < 10.6 m
o Not used for habitation
Industrial:
Permitted in M1 and M2 Zones provided:
o Accessory to industrial use
o Not more than 50% lot area or 2X building
area
o Planting strip between residential zone
o 3 m side and rear yard setback
o Gravel and hard surface
o Subject to site plan agreement
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Municipality RV and Trailer Definitions RV Storage Definitions Indoor Storage Provisions Outdoor Storage Provisions
Oshawa
Zoning By-law
60-94
Recreational Vehicle means a vehicle
designed to be towed behind a motor
vehicle or self-propelled, and includes such
vehicles commonly known as travel trailers,
camper trailers, pick-up coaches,
motorized campers, motorized homes and
other similar vehicles, which provide
sleeping and other facilities for persons
while travelling or vacationing.
Not explicitly defined Industrial:
Self serve storage permitted in PI
Zone
Recreational vehicle storage (not
defined) permitted in GI Zone
Residential Zone:
Permitted for RVs, boats, snowmobiles, etc.
provided:
o No greater than 6 m in length, 2.6 m in
height
o Side or rear yard
Industrial:
Permitted as accessory use in PSC-A, SPC-A, SI,
GI, SPI, HI Zone
o Side or rear yard
o 9 m setback from street with 3 m
landscaped open space
o 6 m setback from Residential or Open
Space Zone
o 3 m setback from all other zones
o Maximum height 4 m in Commercial Zone
o Not more than 60% surface area in Select
Industrial Zone
Recreational vehicle storage (not defined)
permitted in GI Zone
Scugog
Zoning By-law
14-14
Motor vehicle, recreation - A Motor Vehicle
used primarily for recreational purposes
including a snowmobile, ATV, motorcycle,
but excluding other Vehicles defined
herein.
Motor home vehicle - A non-Commercial
Vehicle used primarily for recreational or
vacation purposes and capable of being
used for the temporary vacation living
accommodation of one or more Persons
including any self propelled Vehicle, bus or
Trailer attached to a Vehicle.
Not explicitly defined Permitted as “self storage facility” in
M1, M2, M3 Zones Residential, where dwelling in existence:
Permitted on owner’s lot, provided:
o Rear or interior side yard
o Meets yard and setback requirements for
accessory buildings
o Included in maximum lot coverage
restrictions for accessory buildings
Rural:
Permitted in AG, RE, ORM-AG Zone where
accessory to a permitted non-residential use
Appendix A
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D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 4 Project Number 21-85154
Municipality RV and Trailer Definitions RV Storage Definitions Indoor Storage Provisions Outdoor Storage Provisions
Trailer, Travel or Tent - Any Trailer which is
designed to be temporarily utilized for
living, shelter and sleeping
accommodation, with or without cooking
facilities and which has running gear and
towing equipment permanently attached
and a current license and is not
permanently affixed to the ground.
Vehicle, recreational - Any Vehicle and
associated Trailers used primarily for off-
road recreational purposes including but
not limited to boats, all terrain Vehicles,
unlicensed motorcycles and snowmobiles.
o In ORM-AG, only where use existed as of
date of passing of Zoning By-law
Industrial:
Permitted in M2, M3, M4 zones where accessory
to a non-residential use, provided:
o Rear yard
o Does not exceed 50% lot area
Whitby Zoning
By-law 1784
Trailer means a vehicle so constructed that
it is suitable for being attached to a motor
vehicle for the purpose of being drawn or
propelled by the motor vehicle and is
capable of being used for the transport of
persons or goods, equipment or livestock
notwithstanding that such vehicle is jacked
up or that its running gear is removed.
Vehicle, Recreational means any vehicle or
recreational equipment that provides for
short term occupancy and is used for
recreation, travel or vacationing which is
designed to be towed or propelled by a
motor vehicle or self-propelled and
includes such vehicles as an all-terrain
vehicle, boat, motor home, pop-up
camper, snowmobile, tent trailer, travel
trailer, truck camper and water craft but
does not include a mobile home.
Not explicitly defined Permitted in M1, M1A, M1A-LS as
warehouse Residential Zone:
Permitted on a lot with a ground oriented
dwelling unit provided:
o Owner or RV or trailer shall be occupant
of lot
o Maximum one (1) in open
o Unrestricted in a wholly enclosed building
o Any yard, provided 1.0 m setback
o Maximum 7 m length, 2 m height in front
or exterior side yard
If exceeds, must be in interior or
read yard
Maximum 11 m length, 4 m height
Agricultural Zone:
Permitted on a residential lot unrelated to
farming in the Agricultural Zone, provided:
o Owner occupies lot
o Maximum of two (2) in open
Max one (1) in front or exterior yard
and must be on driveway
Appendix A
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D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 5 Project Number 21-85154
Municipality RV and Trailer Definitions RV Storage Definitions Indoor Storage Provisions Outdoor Storage Provisions
o Unrestricted in wholly enclosed building
o Associated main building
o 3 m yard setbacks
Permitted on agricultural lot, if accessory to
principle or main use and located to the rear of
the main buildings
Industrial:
Permitted where accessory to industrial use in M1
Zones
Permitted in M2 Zone
Port Hope
Zoning By-law
20/2010
Recreational Trailer, Vehicle or Boat means:
Any vehicle that is suitable for being
attached to a motor vehicle for the
purpose of being drawn or is self-propelled,
and may be capable of being used on a
short term recreational basis for living,
sleeping or eating accommodation of
human beings and includes a travel trailer,
pick-up camper, motorized camper, boat
trailer, or tent trailer.
Trailer, Tourist means: A trailer capable of
being used for the temporary living,
sleeping or eating accommodation of
persons notwithstanding that its running
gear is or may be removed.
Not explicitly defined. Not specifically contemplated. Residential:
Permitted on the same lot where the owner
resides in Residential and Countryside zones,
provided:
o Maximum of one (1)
o Rear or side yard
o Meets setbacks for accessory buildings
o If in front yard, meets minimum front yard
for zone
Other:
Permitted in EMP1, EMP2, EMPR, EMPX, EMPG
Zones where accessory to a use:
o Rear or interior side yard
o Minimum 18 m street setback
o Maximum 4.5 m height
o 2.75 m fence height
o Not permitted adjoining a residential zone
boundary
o Maximum 30% lot area or 2x ground floor
area of main building
Appendix A
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D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 6 Project Number 21-85154
Municipality RV and Trailer Definitions RV Storage Definitions Indoor Storage Provisions Outdoor Storage Provisions
Kawartha
Lakes – Town
of Lindsay
2000-75
Not explicitly defined. Not explicitly defined. Permitted in Prestige Employment
Zone as mini storage warehouse. Residential Zones:
Permitted, provided that:
o Not more than 30% lot area to be
occupied by open parking or storage of
RVS, trailers, boats etc.
o Not in front yard
Georgina Recreational Vehicle - means a portable
structure intended as a temporary
accommodation for travel, vacation or
recreational use. Such structure shall
include park model trailers, travel trailers,
motorized homes, slide-in campers, chassis-
mounted campers, and tent trailers.
Not explicitly defined. Permitted in Business Park -1, -2 , -3
and 2G Zone as a warehouse and
public storage and in M1, as public
storage
Permitted in Business Park 2
Gateway BP-2G Zone and BP-3 as
public storage and warehouse
On lands zoned to permit a single-family dwelling:
Permitted on lots greater than 4000 m2
o Maximum six (6), or which maximum two
(2) on driveway in front yard or exterior
side yard
o 6 m front yard setback, 1.2m interior side
yard setback
May be within 6 m setback from
April 1 to Oct 31
Winter vehicles – may be within 6 m
setback from Nov 1 to March 31
o Maximum height 4 m, length 13 m
o Exceptions for larger vehicles around
holiday dates
Permitted on lots between 270 and 4000 m2
o Maximum three (3) with maximum one (1)
in front yard or exterior side yard driveway
o Same provisions as above
Permitted on lots less than 270 m2 zoned to
permit a single, semi or townhouse
o Maximum three (3) all of which to be in
rear yard
o Max 3 m height, 7 m length
o Min side yard of 1.2 m
Commercial:
Appendix A
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D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 7 Project Number 21-85154
Municipality RV and Trailer Definitions RV Storage Definitions Indoor Storage Provisions Outdoor Storage Provisions
Only permitted in Recreational Commercial (C6)
Zone, except if accessory to a leisure vehicle
sales area
Cavan-
Monaghan
Recreational vehicle: a motor vehicle that
is primarily designed to provide temporary
living quarters for recreational camping,
travel or seasonal use, whether it has its
own motor power or is mounted on or
towed by another vehicle, and includes
motor homes, travel trailers, fifth wheel
travel trailers, tent trailers and campers
whether or not the camper is or is not
attached to a truck or other motor vehicle
and does not include a mobile home or a
manufactured home.
Not explicitly defined. Permitted in CMU1 and CMU3 as
warehouse only if existing on
effective date of by-law
Permitted in M1 and M2 as
commercial self-storage facility,
and permitted in M2 as warehouse
Residential Zone:
Where lot is in Residential Zone and less than 0.4
hectares in size:
o Maximum two (2) RVs or two (2) boats or
one (1) RV and one (1) boat
o Interior or rear yard
Industrial:
Permitted in M1, and in M2 provided:
o 20 m setback to front and exterior lot line
o 2 m setback to all other setback
o No greater than 25% of total lot area or
total ground floor area of principal
building
o 1.8 m fence or hedgerow requirement
o Storage not to exceed 6 m in height
o Not permitted abutting residential zone or
floodplain
City of
Belleville BL
10245
Recreational vehicle: shall mean a
portable structure, intended as a
temporary accommodation for travel,
recreation and/or vacational use. Such
structures include motorized snow vehicles,
travel trailers, automobile trailers, motorized
homes, slide-in campers, chassis-mounted
campers, tent trailers and/or boats, but in
no event shall be deemed to include
"mobile homes".
Not explicitly defined. Permitted in M1, M4, MCP as
warehousing
Permitted in M2, M3 as bulk storage
yard
Permitted in M3 as warehousing or
storage building
Residential Zone:
Recreational vehicle permitted to be parked in
any yard, provided the vehicle is not used for
living or sleeping accommodation for more than
30 consecutive days; and in no case shall such
accommodation be leased or rented
Industrial Zone:
Permitted in M2, M3 as bulk storage yard
o Interior or rear yard
o Enclosed by 1.8 m screening where
abutting residential zone
Appendix A
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D.M. Wills Associates Limited Page 8 Project Number 21-85154
Municipality RV and Trailer Definitions RV Storage Definitions Indoor Storage Provisions Outdoor Storage Provisions
City of Quinte
West #20-123
Recreational Trailer, Vehicle or Boat: Means
any vehicle that is suitable for being
attached to a motor vehicle for the
purpose of being drawn or is self-propelled,
and may be capable of being used on a
short term recreational basis for living,
sleeping or eating accommodation of
human beings and includes a travel trailer,
pickup camper, motorized camper, boat
trailer, or tent trailer.
Tourist Trailer: means a trailer capable of
being used for the temporary living,
sleeping or eating accommodation of
persons notwithstanding that its running
gear is or may be removed
Tourist Vehicle: means any self-propelled
vehicle including a bus, motor home, truck
or van, which is equipped for the
temporary living, sleeping or eating
accommodation of persons. For the
purposes of this By-law, “Tourist Vehicle”
shall include a Tourist Trailer.
Trailer: means any vehicle so constructed
that it is suitable for being attached to a
motor vehicle for the purpose of being
drawn or propelled by the motor vehicle
and is capable of being used for the
transport of goods, materials, equipment or
livestock notwithstanding that such vehicle
is jacked up or that its running gear is
removed.
Recreational Trailer, Vehicle or Boat Sale
Establishment: means a premises used for
the sale or recreational trailers, vehicles or
boats and may include, as an accessory
use, the repair and storage of recreational
trailers, vehicles or boats.
Permitted in CC, CR, SM as
commercial self-storage facility
Permitted in LM, GM, SM as
warehouse
Permitted in SM as accessory to RV
sales, rental and service
establishment
Residential:
Permitted on lots zoned to permit residential
uses, subject to the following;
o Not to be used for human habitation
o Driveway, interior side yard or rear yard
with 1 m setback from a public street
o If height 1.8 m or more, 1.2 metres side or
rear yard setback
o Maximum one (1) per lot
o Maximum 3.2 m height and maximum
length 6 m
Agricultural and Rural:
Larger RVs, trailers and boats may be parked
and stored on areas other than a driveway,
subject to the setbacks of the zone
Industrial:
Permitted in SM as accessory to RV sales, rental
and service establishment
o Rear or interior side yard
o 18 m street line setback
o 4.5 maximum height
o Minimum 2.75 m opaque fencing
Maximum area lesser of 30% lot area or 2x ground
floor area of main building