In downtown Winnipeg, any development or property change visible from the street requires an urban design review. The Director of Planning, Property and Development provides approval.
Urban design looks at how buildings, sidewalks, streets and open spaces fit together. It focuses on how these places feel and work for people walking in the area. Good urban design makes downtown safer, easier to move through, and more comfortable. It supports safety, accessibility, pedestrian comfort, and long-term durability. It also helps projects blend into surroundings and support future growth.
The Downtown Urban Design Guidelines identify the principles used in the review.
Downtown Urban Design Guidelines
Why urban design review matters
Urban design review helps create a downtown that is safe, attractive and welcoming. It ensures that each project:
- Fits into its surroundings
- Supports a strong pedestrian environment
- Helps neighbouring properties grow and develop
- Contributes to a healthy, vibrant public realm
Downtown Winnipeg Zoning By-law
The downtown is separated into four sectors; Riverbank, Multiple-Use, Downtown Living, and Character. Each sector has its own intent and offers direction on uses, built form, and signage.
Urban design review is required under Section 250 of the Downtown Winnipeg Zoning By-law No. 100/2004. Section 250 (1) states: "All Downtown Winnipeg development, redevelopment, expansion or exterior alteration visible from public rights-of-way or rivers is subject to urban design review".
When an urban design review is required
Your project needs a review if it includes anything visible from a public street or a river. This includes:
- New buildings
- Additions to buildings
- Exterior alterations
- Demolitions
- New or changed signs
- Changes to parking, loading or access
- Changes to pedestrian pathways
- Adding or removing greenspace or landscaping
- Murals, banners or lighting
Urban design review uses the Downtown Urban Design Guidelines along with other planning policies. These guidelines explain the design expectations for all downtown projects.
The process
Early consultation (recommended for larger projects)
For new buildings, major additions, or major public spaces, early consultation helps identify issues before drawings are fully developed. This makes your final permit review faster and more predictable. Review happens through meetings with City staff and the Urban Design Advisory Committee (UDAC).
Request a consultation:
204-986-4738 (Senior Urban Designer)
1. Prepare your submission
Most applications require:
- Scaled drawings (plans, elevations, sections)
- Landscape drawings
- Lighting details
- Site plan showing all existing and proposed features
- Context information (adjacent buildings, streets, pedestrian routes)
- Final stamped drawings when available
If preparing a large or complex project, you may wish to work with an architect, landscape architect, or engineer.
Note: All materials provided by the applicant, as well as discussion and feedback through the review process, are confidential.
2. Send your application
Include your completed Urban Design Review application form (PDF, 136KB) and any required fees with your submission. The form explains the drawings, plans, and supporting information needed for a complete application.
Submit your application in any of the following ways:
Permits Online
Submit your application online
If you’re unable to submit your application digitally, you can mail, courier, or drop off your application package to Zoning & Permits at Unit 31 - 30 Fort Street, Winnipeg, MB, R3C 4X7
Plan review
City staff review your plans to make sure they follow Downtown Urban Design Guidelines, the Zoning By-law, and related planning documents.
Some projects are also reviewed by the Urban Design Advisory Committee (UDAC). The committee includes volunteer design professionals. They provide expert advice on major or high-impact projects.
Your project may go to UDAC if it is:
- A new building or large addition
- A major park or plaza project
- In a sensitive context
- Likely to influence future development in the area
UDAC meetings
The committee meets once a month. Major projects may present more than once. The first presentation is usually at an early concept stage. A second presentation may happen later, once design details are more complete.
If your project is scheduled for a meeting:
- Submit your presentation materials at least one week before the meeting
- Present for 30 to 45 minutes
- Answer questions from the committee
- Receive meeting notes and recommendations within one week
Recommendations & approval
City staff will issue recommendations for approval with or without conditions. If final construction drawings match approved design, a permit will be issued.
If you disagree with a decision, you may appeal to the Standing Policy Committee on Property and Development.
Heritage projects
Projects involving listed historical resources may also need a heritage permit. Heritage review and urban design review usually occur together.
Heritage review questions:
204-986-4722 (Heritage Planner)
More guidance is available in the following documents:
a secondary plan for downtown Winnipeg that explains how growth will happen. The plan coordinates development, transportation, public spaces, and investment.
A development plan that sets the City’s long-term vision and goals. It guides how Winnipeg grows, plans services, and makes decisions for the future.
A secondary plan that works with OurWinnipeg 2045. It guides how land is used and how buildings take shape across the city.
Direction for land use, building design, and community priorities in the West Alexander and Centennial areas.
Design expectations for development along the west side of Waterfront Drive, from Lombard Avenue to Higgins Avenue. It guides proposals in this pedestrian oriented and heritage sensitive area.