About the Project

The Township of Lake of Bays is reviewing proposed updates to the Hobby Farm section of the Community Planning Permit By‑law. The goal is to make the process for starting a Hobby Farm less restrictive, more streamlined, and considerate of nearby properties.

After reviewing the current by‑law and working through concerns from residents, it became clear that some of the existing rules were outdated and, in some cases, more restrictive than intended. These updates aim to simplify the process, reduce confusion, and make it easier for people to start a Hobby Farm while still being respectful of their neighbours.

These updates do not change anything for existing Hobby Farms. They simply make the rules for starting one clearer, more predictable, and easier to follow.

Click the Farm: See How It Works

Click around our interactive hobby farm to see exactly how the proposed updates work on a real property

isometric farm graphic

What are the Changes?

  • Current Framework

    • Definition based on fixed animal count (5 animals)
    • No clear distinction by livestock impact
    • Limited direction on siting of facilities
    • Relies heavily on MDS and general provisions
    • No requirement to demonstrate site suitability
    • Some outdated terminology (livestock units)

  • Proposed Framework

    • Definition based on animal count and Nutrient Unit
    • Impact‑based approach (accounts for manure/odour)
    • Clear standards for setbacks, lot size, frontage
    • Adds Hobby‑Farm‑specific provisions in Section 3
    • Introduces Hobby Farm Siting Assessment
    • Updated terminology (Nutrient Units, current provincial framework)

Learn more

🔴 Watch Presentation

  • Presentation Slides

    The full presentation slides from the March 31, 2026 Council (Planning Matters) meeting.

    View slides 

💡 Read the Full Document

Dig into the details of the proposed updates to hobby farms by reviewing the full draft by-law and associated staff report.

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