Minor Variance

The Zoning Bylaw regulates all lands within the Town boundaries. Sometimes a proposal does not comply with the Zoning Bylaw. A minor variance may provide relief from certain provisions of the Zoning Bylaw, such as:

• Building locations and setbacks;
• Construction; and
• Lot size.

A minor variance provides a small relief from a specific requirement in the Zoning Bylaw, but does not change the zone of the property.

The Committee of Adjustment is the approval authority for a minor variance. They determine if an application is desirable/appropriate, and if the general intent and purpose of the Zoning Bylaw and the Official Plan is maintained. If these criteria are not met the Committee may refuse an application. Please see the process summary for more information.

The Town has a pre-consultation by-law for planning applications.  Prior to submitting a minor variance application, applicants are to prepare a site plan illustrating their proposal for review with staff.  Please contact planning staff to make an appointment.
The following links will assist in preparation of a site plan: Mapping, Zoning, Official Plan.

The flow chart below outlines the basic process of applying for a minor variance.