The purpose of a special development plan (plan d’aménagement particulier – PAP) is to clarify and implement the general development plan (plan d'aménagement général – PAG), while adhering to the method and degree of land use specified therein..
A distinction is made between:
Existing development PAP (PAP quartier existant) and marking plan
An existing development PAP establishes the town planning provisions for land that is entirely connected to all utilities in urban areas. Existing development PAPs are drawn up by the municipal office at the same time as the general development plan.
An existing development PAP identifies
- the dimensional specifications (setbacks, heights, number of levels, roof shapes, number of housing units per building); and
- the type of structures to be built.
Approved PAP (PAP approuvé)
An approved PAP is a plan that has been duly authorised by the minster or for which the authorisation procedure was initiated before the new PAG entered into force, i.e. before 13 June 2016.
Approved PAPs are listed in a table and stated in the marking plan under their respective number. Such PAPs can be amended by law.
New development PAP (PAP nouveau quartier)
A new development PAP sets the urban planning and subdivision rules for plots that are not yet connected to all utilities when the plan is drawn up. For areas subject to the creation of a new development PAP and which are not yet covered by one that has been approved by the minister, a new development PAP is required prior to any construction or subdivision. Urban development in these areas is guided by the master plans that are part of the PAG. A new development PAP may be drawn up only at the initiative of the municipal office, the government or any other legal entity.
A new development PAP identifies
- the zoning of private plots;
- the types, sizes and locations of buildings; and
- the layout and design of public spaces.
