Smart growth is a planning approach that concentrates development in compact, walkable centres, preserves open space and farmland, and provides transportation choices beyond automobile dependence. Smart growth principles include mixing land uses, designing walkable neighbourhoods, providing housing choices, protecting environmental features, directing development toward existing communities, and making development decisions predictable and fair. Smart growth contrasts with conventional suburban sprawl characterized by low densities, separated land uses, and car dependence. Many Canadian municipalities have adopted smart growth policies to reduce infrastructure costs, protect agricultural land, decrease transportation emissions, and create more livable communities. Smart growth implementation involves zoning changes, urban growth boundaries, and transit investments.