What this permit covers
This permit allows you to build, widen, or relocate a driveway to connect your property to a City street or lane. In Wrenford, any change to the edge of the road, including curb cuts and sidewalks, falls under Zoning By-law 2016-040 and the Site Alteration By-law 2022-071.
Do you need a permit?
You must apply for a development permit and a site alteration permit if you are:
- Building a brand-new driveway on a property that does not have one.
- Widening an existing driveway beyond its original width.
- Relocating a driveway to a different spot on the street frontage.
- Lowering or modifying the curb, sidewalk, or boulevard to fit the new driveway.
You do not need a development permit if you are simply replacing an existing driveway in the exact same spot with the same dimensions (in-kind replacement). You may still need a building permit if the new surface involves retaining walls or complex grading. Check the building permit guide for details.
Design rules and setbacks
Your driveway must meet specific size and placement rules to keep sight lines clear for drivers and pedestrians.
- Minimum length: 6.0 metres from the back of the sidewalk to the garage door.
- Maximum width: 3.0 metres on standard residential lots. Wider driveways require a minor variance or encroachment agreement.
- Setbacks: The driveway must stay at least 1.5 metres from the side property line and 3.0 metres from any existing transit shelter or wheelchair ramp at an intersection.
- Grade: The slope cannot exceed 12 per cent to ensure safe vehicle and pedestrian access.
If your property is on an arterial road like Benchlands Drive or Eastfield Road, the City's Mobility team will review your plan to ensure traffic safety. A pre-application meeting is recommended for these locations.
How to apply
Follow these steps to submit a complete application:
- Prepare a site plan showing your property lines, the proposed driveway location, dimensions, and any curb modifications.
- Complete the Driveway Application Form and Site Alteration Checklist.
- Submit your documents online through the Wrenford Permit Portal or in person at the Service Wrenford counter.
Online submissions are processed faster. You can pay all fees by credit card at the time of submission.
Fees and timelines
| Application type | Fee | Processing time |
|---|---|---|
| Driveway development permit | $425.00 | 20 business days |
| Site alteration permit (curb/sidewalk) | $275.00 | 10 business days |
Timelines start once the City receives a complete application. Incomplete submissions will be returned, which delays the clock.
Inspections and expiry
Once your permit is approved, you must book a pre-construction inspection to mark the exact driveway location. After the driveway is built, schedule a final inspection through the Wrenford Permit Portal before covering any underground utilities.
Permits are valid for 12 months from the date of issuance. If construction is not started within that window, you can apply for a one-time extension through the portal.
Need help?
If you are unsure about your property's zoning or need a site plan template, email the planning team at [email protected] or call 519-555-0100. For questions about curb cuts and road safety, contact the Roads team at [email protected].