On April 15, the government passed O Reg 149/20 made under the Planning Act for the "Special Rules Relating to Declared Emergency."

Earlier this week a "plain language" explanation of the regulation was published on the ERO by the provincial government.

Members are encourage to review the Amendments to the Planning Act and O.Reg 149/20 Special Rules Relating to Declared Emergency for clarity.

In the posting, MMAH explains that O.Reg 149/20 clarifies that O.Reg 73/20 under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act  does not apply to land use planning timelines.  The posting also makes it clear that municipalities may hold virtual public meetings and should they wish to make decisions on applications during this time, they are free to do so.

Members are also encouraged to consult with legal counsel as well as their respective municipality to determine how the new planning regulation may or may not affect their specific applications or appeals.