What is a minor variance?
A minor variance allows you to make small changes to a property that do not fully follow the Zoning By-law or the Official Plan. The City of Wrenford uses the Committee of Adjustment to review these requests. You can ask for a variance if your property has a unique shape, size, or setback issue that makes strict compliance difficult.
When does a variance work?
The Committee of Adjustment can only grant a variance if it passes four tests under the Planning Act:
- The variance is minor.
- The variance is desirable for the appropriate development or use of the land.
- The variance does not change the general intent and purpose of the Zoning By-law.
- The variance does not change the general intent and purpose of the Official Plan.
Common reasons for a minor variance include a small setback issue, a slightly oversized accessory building, or a driveway width that does not match the standard.
How to apply
You must submit a complete application to the Committee of Adjustment before the meeting date. You can apply in person at the Service Wrenford counter, Room 100, Wrenford City Hall, or by mail. Please review the full application package for the required site plan and survey.
Application fee: $750.00 for a single detached house or duplex. $1,250.00 for all other properties.
Submission deadline: Applications must be received by 4:30 p.m. on the Friday before the third Wednesday of the month. Incomplete applications will be deferred to the next meeting.
Processing time and hearings
Planning staff will review your file to make sure it is complete. This takes two weeks. Once the file is complete, it is scheduled for a public hearing. Hearings are held on the third Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. You will receive a notice of hearing by mail at least twenty-one days before the meeting.
At the hearing, a member of the public or a neighbour may speak in favour of or against your request. The Committee will listen to all comments and make a decision. You can attend in person or watch the meeting on the City's livestream.
Appeals
If the Committee denies your request, you can ask for a review. You have twenty business days from the date of the decision notice to file an appeal to the Committee of Adjustment. If you need more time, you must apply for an extension before the deadline passes. Learn more on the Appeal a decision to the committee of adjustment page.
If a party is dissatisfied with the Committee's decision, they may appeal to the Ontario Land Tribunal within thirty days. The City will cover the filing fee for these appeals.
Contact us
For questions about the minor variance process or the application package, contact the Planning Department at [email protected] or call 519-555-0100. The Committee's Secretary-Treasurer, Farid Haddad, can also answer procedural questions.