Minor variance and consent applications

Check which application you need

• Minor variances from the provisions of the zoning by-law
• Extensions, enlargements or variations of existing legal non-conforming uses under the zoning by-law
• Land division (severing a new lot from an existing lot, adding land to an existing lot, easements, mortgages or leases in excess of 21 years)
• Determining whether a particular use conforms with the provisions of the zoning by-law where the uses of land, buildings or structures permitted in the by-law are defined in general terms
• When a proposal does not comply with the provisions of the zoning by-law, an owner may make application to the Committee of Adjustment for a minor variance. A minor variance provides relief from a specific zoning by-law requirement, excusing a property owner from meeting the exact requirements of the by-law.
• Changing how close a building is to a property line
• Increasing a building height
• Reducing the number of required parking spaces in a commercial development
• Normally, new lots are created through approval of an application for a plan of subdivision. When only one or two new lots would be created and no new road is required, a full subdivision application may not be necessary. In this case, an application for consent to sever may be appropriate.

Know what the committee weighs

• Does the variance maintain the general intent and purpose of the official plan?
• Does the variance maintain the general intent and purpose of the zoning by-law?
• Is the variance desirable for the appropriate development or use of the land?
• Is the variance minor?
• Conformity with the lot creation policies of the official plan(s)
• The availability of access to and frontage on a municipal road
• The appropriateness of the size and configuration of the proposed lot for the land use
• The adequacy of water and wastewater services
• The location and characteristics of the property
• The conservation and protection of natural resources and farmland
• The impact upon the current and future use of surrounding properties

Complete the forms3Download the set8 forms

• Minor Variance ApplicationForm
• Land Division (Consent) ApplicationForm
• Pre-consultation Request - Consent and Minor VariancesForm

Related documents

• Citizens’ Guide to Minor Variances and Consent Processes
• Design Guidelines for Stable Residential Areas
• Committee of Adjustment Procedure By-law 2016-066

Pay the fee

Planning and Committee of Adjustment fees and by-law

• Planning and Development Rates and Fees
• Planning Services By-law 2024-156