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Planning & Development

City of Iqaluit Planning and Development

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Lands

The Planning and Development Department manages all aspects of municipal land administration in Iqaluit. For guidance, access the Land Administration By-law or contact our Lands office.

We assist with:

  • Lease renewals & extensions: Extend your land lease before it expires (up to 99 years in total allowed).
  • Transfers & surrenders: Changing leaseholders, selling property, or returning leased lands to the City.
  • Consents to lending: Required for mortgage approvals and mortgage refinancing.
  • New leases: Apply for available lots when advertised by the City.
  • Land Use & Quarry Permits: Temporary occupation of City land or authorization to extract resources.
  • Administration & compliance: Ensuring all transactions are consistent with City by-laws.

For details on eligibility, procedures, and required documentation, see our resource page or contact:

Planning

Our team leads the long-range planning that shapes Iqaluit’s growth and land use.

Key areas:

  • Long-term strategic planning: Establishing the community’s future direction for land use, growth, and municipal investment. The General Plan sets out goals for housing, infrastructure, environmental protection, and economic development over 20 years.
  • Council’s vision: All planning and land decisions are guided by Council’s adopted vision in the General Plan, which is regularly updated with input from residents, stakeholders, and government partners.
  • Growth & new subdivision: Assessment and approval of new neighbourhoods, subdivision of land, and preparation for future development.

Learn more about ongoing planning initiatives, opportunities for public input, and project updates at plan.iqaluit.ca.

Development

The Development team oversees all private and public construction, changes in land use, and related applications.

Our services include:

  • Development permitting: Required for new construction, major renovations, demolitions, change of land use, or significant changes to a property. From January 1, 2025, all applications must be submitted online at ca.cloudpermit.com.
  • Rezoning and plan amendments: If your project does not comply with current zoning or General Plan policies, rezoning or plan amendments may be required. These involve a formal process, including community notification and Council review.
  • Development-related lot subdivision approvals: Guidance and approvals for subdividing or amalgamating properties as part of a development proposal.

For resources to help you navigate rules and application requirements:

Need More Info or Support?
Contact our helpful staff:

Tip: Always check the resources, by-laws, and relevant maps before applying. Our team is available to clarify regulations, walk you through application steps, and ensure your project aligns with the City’s vision and regulations. For full details, visit plan.iqaluit.ca/resources.

Tip: You will need to obtain a Building Permit from the Government of Nunavut once a Development Permit is approved by the City. Information about the Building Permit Application process can be found here