COMMITTEE OF ADJUSTMENT MINOR VARIANCE

A minor variance allows a developer to use or develop land in a way that does not conform to the zoning by-law but follows its general intent. The Committee of Adjustment must ensure that the minor variance meets the “four tests” listed below. 1. Maintain the general intent and purpose of the official plan; 2. Maintain the general intent and purpose of the zoning by-law; 3. Be desirable for the appropriate development or use of the land, building or structure; and 4. Be minor in nature. Minor variance applications are decided by a municipality’s Council or by their Committee of Adjustment. Applications for the minor variances cannot be made within two years from the day a zoning by-law amendment was made for the same property, unless Council permits.