The Language of Planning: What’s in a Word?
Land planning, at the best of times, uses its own language. During a crisis, this language may be even more challenging for our clients to grasp or fully understand. As we seek clarity to help us make the right decisions, language becomes key.
Navigating the confusing language in land development (acronyms, techno-speak) becomes even more critical. Whether it is a written contract, public notice, staff report, project document, or attending a meeting, understanding the words and terms in use is essential to successful project outcomes. Those who have a land planning project can benefit from having an expert; to explain the terminology and guide them through the process.
Understanding the language used by Planners: PLANNER-ESE
Planners, perhaps like other professions, have a specific language. I call it "Planner-ese"; a technical language that deals with Site Plans, Amendments and Official Plans. To further complicate matters, we also use acronyms as if they were words, further confusing the issue.
Here is an example of a sentence used in a planning document. "The OP does not conform with the ZBL, so we need an OPA, ZBA, and SPA to demonstrate how this application is consistent with the PPS and GPGGH. The ZBL may show us to be legal non-conforming, which needs to be confirmed first." If you are not a planner and understand this, then you're ahead of the curve! If you want to learn more, read on.
Understanding "Planner-ese" can help save time, money and ensure the success of a project.
For example, when attending a City meeting during your project's pre-consultation phase, a land planning advisor can explain and provide insights into the studies & drawings needed to support the project. Reviewing the meeting notes can also be a challenge. Although in English, meeting notes can be complicated and quite technical. A land planning expert can explain the terminology used, offer context and meaning, and provide advice on the project's next steps.
Even though it is helpful to have your land planner support the planning process, it can be beneficial for all project owners to understand some basic terminology.
There are some common words you should know to help understand the planning process.
For instance, "should" and "shall" are commonly used and unfortunately used interchangeably far too frequently. What may seem like a slight difference between these common words can make a big difference to your project.
To us, "shall" says "must" or "will", which is a direction or requirement.
"You shall make that building 10m or less in height," says required. If the same rule were to say, "You should make that building 10m or less in height", I would read it as best efforts, rather than required.
What is the difference in the usage of these words?
One place to look is the dictionary. For example, the following words defined by Merriam-Webster dictionary are:
"Shall" – Used in laws, regulations or directives to express what is mandatory.
"Should" – an obligation used to express what is probable or expected.
When you read a Zoning By-law, it says a "BUILDING" shall mean any structure or edifice, whether temporary or permanent, used or built for the shelter, accommodation or enclosure of persons, animals, equipment or things." (Haldimand County Zoning By-law). A BUILDING can be a gazebo, barn, house, or storage shed. If your shed meets their definition, it's a building, period.
Another example, taken from the 2020 PPS (see meaning below) is "Planning authorities should establish and implement phasing policies to ensure:" means that municipalities are to make best efforts to provide phasing policies. They are not required to do so.
To find answers to your questions about language, give LandPro Planning a call.
We are your trusted advisor and can help you understand certain documents' meaning and what it means to your project. Our team can meet with you or your City government if needed.
