The Committee deals with requests for minor changes to the Zoning By-law (e.g. structure setbacks, height, and size), permissions to extend, enlarge, or alter a Legal Non-Conforming use (Legal Non-Complying structure), as well as the creation of new lots, lot line adjustments, easements, leases over 21 years, etc. The Committee is comprised of members of the community appointed by Council, with assigned authority to deal with various applications. The hearings are held monthly, and are open to the public.
Upcoming hearings, agendas and previous meeting minutes for the Committee of Adjustment can be found on the Town's Municipal Calendar.
Below are the members of the Committee of Adjustment for the 2022-2026 Term.
Todd Jenney - Chair
Jane Watson
Jason Smith
Keith Medenblik
Lloyd Hillier
Frequently asked questions |
What is the Committee of Adjustment? The Committee deals with requests for minor changes to the Zoning By-law (e.g. structure setbacks, height, and size), permissions to extend, enlarge, or alter a Legal Non-Conforming use (Legal Non-Complying structure), as well as the creation of new lots, lot line adjustments, easements, leases over 21 years, etc. The Committee is comprised of members of the community appointed by Council, with assigned authority to deal with various applications. The hearings are held monthly, and are open to the public. What are the steps involved with a Minor Variance or Permission application, and how long does the process take? The steps can be accessed here. The process typically takes around 60 days. If a decision is appealed to the Ontario Land Tribunal, the process will take much longer. What are the steps involved with a Consent application, and how long does the process take? As the Town has delegated authority to issue Consent decisions, public hearings are not typically held. Please contact staff for details, and note that timing will depend on various factors, including:
When and where are the Hearings held? Hearings are typically held virtually on the first Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. How are the neighbours and the public notified? What are the four tests that a Minor Variance application is evaluated against? The requested variance(s) must be considered to meet the intent and purpose of the Official Plan, meet the intent and purpose of the Zoning By-law, be desirable for the appropriate use of the land, building or structure, and be minor in nature. How is the application reviewed? Once technical comments from various agencies and departments, as well as any public comments are received, a report is written by a Planner, recommending approval, deferral, or refusal. What if I object to a proposal? How can I get a copy of the decision? A copy of the decision will be forwarded to the owner and agent, each person who spoke at the hearing, and to those who have submitted a written request to receive the notice of decision. What are my options if I do not agree with a decision? A 20 day appeal period follows each decision, and if you choose to appeal the decision to the Ontario Land Tribunal, an appeal form, including a fee must be submitted to the Secretary-Treasurer within those 20 days. NOTE: ‘Bill 23 – More Homes Built Faster Act’ has received Royal Assent. The Ontario government’s legislation results in third-party appeals being eliminated. This means that no one other than the applicant, the municipality, certain public bodies, and the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing will be allowed to appeal the subject decision. Where do the rules that govern Committee of Adjustment come from?
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