An overlay is a set of additional zoning rules that are applied to specific and
special areas around the city. An overlay can override or add to the rules of the
underlying zones.
Two examples of these are the North Saskatchewan River Valley and Ravine System Protection Overlay and the Mature Neighbourhood Overlay.
The North Saskatchewan River Valley and Ravine System Protection Overlay applies along the banks of the river and its ravines. The overlay makes sure that there is a development setback from the North Saskatchewan River Valley and Ravine System.
The Mature Neighbourhood Overlay (MNO) applies to Edmonton’s mature neighbourhoods. Created in 2001, the MNO is a part of the Zoning Bylaw that helps new development fit in with existing older communities that feature tree-lined streets and smaller lots. The current Mature Neighbourhood Overlay contains 24 regulations that modify the existing zoning, including more specific regulations for the amount of space between buildings and property lines, window placement and driveway locations, among other things.