What is a development variance permit?
A Development Variance Permit (DVP) allows you to adjust specific requirements in the Zoning By-law 2016-040 that your property cannot meet. You might need a DVP if your lot size, building setback, or height is slightly different from what the by-law allows. A DVP is not a zoning change. It only gives you permission to vary a specific rule for your property.
What can and cannot be varied
A DVP can adjust certain numeric or physical requirements, such as:
- Front, side, or rear yard setbacks
- Building height or lot coverage
- Off-street parking or loading spaces
- Sign dimensions or placement
- Landscaping or screening requirements
A DVP cannot change the following:
- The permitted use of the land or how many buildings can sit on the lot (density)
- Rules in the City of Wrenford Official Plan
- Floodplain or shoreline restrictions set by the Tamsin Valley Conservation Authority
- Building Code requirements
How to apply
Follow these steps to submit your application:
- Check your property's zoning and requirements using the Find land use bylaw maps.
- Complete the Development Variance Permit Application Form.
- Prepare a current property survey or plan showing the proposed variance and existing structures.
- Submit all documents to the Planning & Development department. You can drop them off at Room 310, Wrenford City Hall, 100 Mercer Street, or mail them to P.O. Box 4321, Station Main, Wrenford, ON N4Q 1A1.
- Pay the application fee. The City will review your submission for completeness within 14 days.
Once the application is complete, the City will mail public notice to nearby property owners. If no appeals are received within the 20-day review period, the Committee of Adjustment will issue the permit.
Fees
Application fees must be paid before the City begins processing your request. All payments are non-refundable once review starts.
| Application Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Residential development variance | $650.00 |
| Commercial or industrial development variance | $850.00 |
| Sign variance | $275.00 |
Application forms and requirements
Download the forms you need below:
- Development Variance Permit Application Form
- Letter of Authorization (if your representative will attend the hearing)
- Site Plan Checklist
For a full list of required documents and submission guidelines, visit Planning applications.
Questions or support
If you need help figuring out if you need a DVP, or if you have questions about the application process, contact the Planning & Development department:
- Phone: 519-555-0100
- Email: [email protected]
- Office hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Room 310, Wrenford City Hall, 100 Mercer Street.