The province may prepare a Provincial Policy Statement and provincial plans to describe land use planning decisions that must be considered by municipalities in their planning decisions.

The Provincial Policy Statement outlines the provincial policies on land use planning that apply across Ontario. It provides policy direction on the efficient use of land, provision of infrastructure and public services, protection of the natural, cultural and agricultural resources, and the protection of public health and safety. All municipal planning decisions shall be consistent with the Provincial Policy Statement.

Provincial plans provide more specific policy direction within a specific geographical area or on a specific matter of provincial interest. All municipal planning decisions shall conform with provincial plans. The following provincial plans apply within the City of Markham:

• A Place to Grow: Growth Plan, 2019 is the Province’s long term growth plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe to promote economic growth, increase housing supply, create jobs and built communities that make life easier, healthier and more affordable for people of all ages.
• The Greenbelt Plan, 2017 identifies a protected area in the Greater Golden Horseshoe where urban development will not occur to protect agricultural, ecological and hydrological resources. The Greenbelt Plan includes the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan, 2017.
• The 2041 Regional Transportation Plan, by Metrolinx, identifies an implementation plan to build an integrated transportation system for the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area.