Planning and Development

The City of St. John's is growing, and we’re shaping that growth with care. Our approach blends the best of our past—our built heritage and historic character—with a bright future of innovation, sustainability, and vibrant neighbourhoods. Guided by Envision St. John’s, our Municipal Plan, we strive to create a city that thrives economically, respects its history, and enhances quality of life for all.

Our Approach to Growth

To build a thriving and sustainable city, we aim to:

• Identify areas for responsible future growth
• Encourage a mix of housing, businesses, and public spaces
• Invest in infrastructure that supports higher-density development along major transportation routes
• Respect the character of established neighbourhoods while integrating thoughtful new development
• Enhance local amenities, including parks, recreation spaces, and pedestrian-friendly areas
• Celebrate and protect the historic downtown
• Safeguard our waterways, wetlands, coastlines, and rural landscapes

Planning vs. Development: What’s the Difference?

The City of St. John’s guides growth through both planning and development, ensuring our city evolves in a sustainable and well-organized way:

• Planning sets the vision for how land is used and how the city grows over time. It includes policies, zoning rules, and long-term strategies like Envision St. John’s to guide future development.
• Development puts those plans into action. It includes regulations, permits, and infrastructure requirements to ensure buildings and projects meet city standards.

Explore Planning and Development

Learn how different components of planning and development come together to shape St. John’s.

• Envision St. John’s Municipal Plan
• Rezoning and Amendments
• Submit a Development Application
• Development Checklists
• Development Fees
• Development Design Manual
• Appeals

• Development Team
• Additional Resources
  • Active Planning & Development Applications
  • Plans, Reports & Studies

Contact Us

For questions about planning or development, email planning@stjohns.ca or call (709) 576-8220. Alternatively, you can contact the Development Team!