Zoning and Land Use

Understanding how land can be used and developed is key to smart growth. Explore the Town of Morris’s zoning structure below to help guide your projects, investments, or future plans.

Official Zoning Map & By-law

The zoning structure of Morris is governed by Zoning By-law 01.25, which sets the rules for how land within town limits can be used and developed. Below is an indicative zoning map—click to view the full, downloadable version.

Download the documents here:

Zoning Categories: What They Mean

Here’s a breakdown of the typical zones in Morris and what you can do in each:

Zone Type Description
R – Residential Single-family homes; some accessory uses allowed.
C – Commercial Retail, services, offices, and businesses in town centre.
I – Industrial Manufacturing, warehousing, and light processing.
GD – General Development Flexible mix of uses for decentralized growth areas.<br>(Note: may align more closely with RM zoning categories from nearby rural districts.)

When to Review Zoning

Before beginning a project, be sure to:

  • Check your property’s zone — Verify allowable uses and development standards (e.g., setbacks, height limits).

  • Apply for a Development Permit — Required unless exempted by by-law.

  • Coordinate with Town staff — Confirm if both a Development Permit and a Building Permit are required.

Permissions & Exemptions

Not all projects require a permit. For example, minor residential works—such as minor repairs, small sheds (<120 sq ft), or fences under 6 ft—may be exempt, per the zoning by-law


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