The Committee of Adjustment holds public hearings once per month to deal with minor variance applications. The need for a minor variance most often occurs when some aspect of a building project does not meet the requirements of the comprehensive Zoning By-law, although there may be other circumstances that require a minor variance.

The minor variance process is open to the public and is regulated by the Planning Act. The process involves (but is not limited to):

• giving advance notice to certain neighbouring property owners and other agencies of the public hearing;
• a decision on the application being made at the public hearing;
• provision for making an appeal of the decision within 20 days after the decision date.

When planning any building project, it is recommended that you check with the Building Department as soon as possible to ensure your plans conform to the by-law to minimize any delay that may be caused by the requirement for a minor variance.

Click here for minor variance application processing/meeting dates for 2011.

Click here for minor variance application processing/meeting dates for 2012.

If you wish to submit an application for a minor variance download an Application Form and an Environmental Site Screening Questionnaire which must also be submitted.