New policies governing how Bracebridge grows and develops are now in effect following the conclusion of a multi-year review of the town’s land use framework. The District of Muskoka Council officially approved the update, known as Official Plan Amendment No. 18, on February 17, 2026. As there are no outstanding appeals, the new rules are now active to guide future planning in the community.
This update concludes a comprehensive 10-year review process required under provincial law. The Town of Bracebridge original plan had been in place since 2013. Local officials initiated the update to align with current provincial requirements and to address changing community needs, a process that included multiple rounds of public engagement such as open houses and a statutory public meeting held in April 2025.
The updated framework is designed to manage the town’s expansion while protecting its local environment. Mayor Rick Maloney has stated that the goal is for Bracebridge to remain one of the fastest-growing communities in Muskoka while carefully balancing that growth with the preservation of natural, heritage, and cultural resources. The policy document provides a long-term strategy for decision-making regarding new housing, commercial areas, and public parks.
The town previously moved the process forward on July 9, 2025, when the local council passed a by-law to adopt the policy changes. Following a review and the incorporation of modifications by the District of Muskoka, the final plan is now ready for public use. A consolidated version of the complete Official Plan, which includes these new policies, was published on April 8, 2026.
Residents interested in reviewing the updated document can find the information on the Engage Bracebridge website. For specific questions regarding the plan, the town identifies Cheryl Kelley, Director of Planning and Development, and Matt Holmes, Manager of Planning Services, as the primary staff contacts.
