How Municipal Bylaws Are Made

Public Service Announcement

How Municipal Bylaws Are Made

July 22, 2025 – Iqaluit, Nunavut

 

The City of Iqaluit would like to help residents understand how local bylaws are created and passed. Bylaws are local laws that guide how our community operates. They deal with issues such as public safety, land use, development, and city services.

The process begins when someone identifies a need for a new bylaw or a change to an existing one. This can come from City Council or City staff. Once the idea is approved, staff begin preparing a draft. The Chief Administrative Officer, also known as the CAO, helps guide this work and ensures that the draft follows territorial laws and local priorities.

When the draft is ready, it goes through a three-step process with City Council. The first reading is where the bylaw is introduced. The second reading is for discussion and possible changes. The third reading is the final vote by Council. If Council approves the bylaw, it moves on to the next step.

Public involvement is an important part of the bylaw process. The City provides notice to residents and invites feedback. Residents can send in written comments or appear as a delegation to provide verbal comments, if requested in advance. For bylaws that modify the Zoning Bylaw or General Plan, public hearings must be held and residents can appear before Council to provide their feedback on the proposed changes. In some cases, a public vote called a plebiscite may be held. If this happens, Council must follow the result.

Some types of bylaws, especially those related to land use or governance, must also be submitted to the Government of Nunavut for review and approval by the Minister responsible.

Once all steps are complete, the bylaw becomes official and is shared with the public. Bylaws can also be formally amended or repealed in the future if community needs change. These changes usually follow the same process as creating a new bylaw.

Council members are expected to review all materials in advance and make decisions that reflect the best interests of the community. This helps ensure that bylaws are thoughtful, informed, and transparent.

The City of Iqaluit encourages all residents to stay informed and involved. Your voice helps make sure that local laws work for everyone.

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For additional information, please contact:

 

Geoff Byrne

Manager of Communications and Customer Service

City of Iqaluit

867-979-5619 | G.Byrne@iqaluit.ca