The Middlesex County Official Plan is a comprehensive planning document to be used in working towards the long term vision for Middlesex County.  The Plan directs and guides the County in land use policy and physical planning on a broad basis.  The Plan establishes an upper tier policy framework that provides guidance to local municipalities in the preparation of local official plans and zoning by‑laws.  It sets a framework for coordination and cooperation amongst local municipalities and the County on planning and development issues that transcend municipal boundaries.

The County Official Plan contains policies dealing with issues of Provincial and County interest.  The Plan contains specific land use policies for Settlement Areas, Agricultural Areas and Natural Environment Areas.  It also provides a policy framework for issues such as Resource Management, Growth Management and the provision of Physical Services, such as transportation facilities.  It recognizes the planning powers and authorities vested in the local municipalities and, therefore, does not address in any great detail those planning matters which are most appropriately dealt with at the local level.  The County Official Plan provides a framework for more detailed strategies, policies and land use designations in local official plans.

The Official Plan was most recently updated in 2006 as part of the County’s Official Plan Five Year Review.  The changes to the Official Plan can be categorized in ten general policy areas as follows: Economic Development, Forecasting Growth, Agricultural Areas Consents, Transportation, Natural Heritage, Groundwater, Alternative and Renewable Energy Systems, Intensification and Redevelopment, Affordable Housing, and Technical Issues.