The CPPS was previously known as the Development Permit System (DPS).

A Community Planning Permit System (CPPS):

• ​ is a land-use planning tool that provides an alternative to the current planning approval process and addresses local planning matters; 
• combines three separate planning application processes of Zoning By-law Amendments, Minor Variances, and Site Plan applications, into one application submission and approval process; 
• identifies permitted uses and, minimum and maximum development standards for a site or area; and 
• can set conditions for development standards as well as additional conditions for variances from them. Conditions might include infrastructure requirements, community contributions, and sustainable design elements. ​​