Minor Variance

A minor variance is an application to vary the requirements of the zoning by-law. The Town's Committee of Adjustment for Minor Variances considers Minor Variance applications for approval. A minor variance allows the property owner to obtain a building permit even if their development proposal does not comply precisely with the zoning by-law. Under Section 45(1) of the Planning Act, a minor variance must meet four tests:

Is the application minor in nature?
Is the application desirable for the appropriate development of the lands in question?
Does the application conform to the general intent of the Zoning By-law?
Does the application conform to the general intent of the Official Plan? It is important to note that to consider any application a minor variance it must meet all four tests.

Procedures for Submitting Minor Variance Application

Minor Variance Application Form

Pre-Consultation Meeting

Request an Appointment

The Town's Planning Services Branch is committed to working with the public and strongly encourages pre-consultation meetings with staff prior to making an application under the Planning Act.

A pre-consultation form is available to provide staff with information on the proposed development to ensure appropriate staff members and/or agencies are included in the meeting.

A pre-consultation meeting may be subject to a fee, which shall be reduced from the application fee should the application be made within one year of the pre-consultation meeting date.

Request a Pre-Consultation