The Province of Ontario requires all Planning Authorities to provide notice of applications. Traditionally, the City has posted notice in local media and via Canada Post. The Planning Department is introducing QR Codes to its Notice of Planning signage to better inform citizens of planning applications.

The new program's rollout comes at a time when QR codes are enjoying something of a resurgence in the pandemic. This more efficient and modern planning act notice will be monitored  through website data to see if people use these QR codes to look up information on  planning applications.

Shortly after a planning application has been validated, details of such and any associated documents are posted on the City’s website and will be printed on a sign that will be erected at the applicant’s site. The QR code takes the user to the web page which provides a summary of the planning application, easily viewable on a smartphone from anywhere so people are able to see the details of the application.

Members of the public who see the notice on the street can scan the QR code with their smartphone, which then displays the detail of the application on the City’s Website.

Along with development plans, active notices, and permit searches, the public can access the city’s portal for information about a site plan that includes the owner or responsible agent’s name, address, phone number, and email contact if available. There’s also a phone number to call for the info: 519-376-1440.

 source: media release, City of Owen Sound