What is the process to update an existing by-law or develop a new one?

To update or create a by-law, a municipality must define a subject matter and a scope for the by-law. For example, a by-law could be defined to regulate the use of off-road vehicles within the municipality. After defining the subject matter and scope, Council and administration will seek to identify the issues to be addressed by a particular by-law. For example, a by-law regarding off-road vehicles might address when residents may drive certain types of off-road vehicles in certain areas. In most cases, after identifying the issues, similar by-laws in other municipalities will be reviewed to confirm that the subject matter, scope, and issues of the proposed by-law or by-law amendment are appropriate. Often, municipalities will rely on committees to examine and revise the detail of a proposed by-law. Several versions may be produced before the committee believes the by-law is ready for Council to vote on it. Once a by-law goes to Council, it must be read three times by Council to be enacted. Two of the three readings can take place in one Council meeting.