Manitoba
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Manitoba Local Government

Land Use and Development

Manitoba is a vast province rich with natural heritage. As a result, there is pressure to utilize this heritage from a diversity of interests (e.g. forestry, mining, tourism, agriculture, recreation, settlement and other land uses). To sustain a healthy ecosystem, it is important that the demand for development is balanced with the need to protect and preserve valuable resources and the environment.

Land use planning helps communities establish their vision for the future use of land, resources and natural features, and outlines the steps required to achieve that vision. It involves managing land uses and deciding where best to develop homes, parks, agriculture and industry, and where things should be left in their natural state. Land use planning is an essential part of building healthy, prosperous and sustainable communities.

Through the planning process, communities can decide the future course of their growth and development and ensure that citizens are involved in the decision making. Sound planning will balance private and public interests and help communities manage change, avoid land use conflicts and respond to future challenges. Land use planning in Manitoba is a partnership between the provincial and local governments and their citizens. Each plays a key role in ensuring the planning process is a success.