The Committee considers and makes decisions on applications for Minor Variances from the provisions of the Village’s Zoning By-law and applications for enlargement or extension to any existing legal non-conforming building or structure.

The Committee is comprised of at least three (3) members of the public that are appointed by Council, one (1) Council Liaison appointed by Council, and the Head of Council is a member as ex-officio. The Committee obtains its authority from the Planning Act.

Minor Variances are often required by circumstances peculiar to a property which prevent the owner from developing it in a way which conforms to a Zoning By-law. Examples of Minor Variance Applications include requests for relief from the building setback, building height, and lot coverage provisions of a Zoning By-law.

The Committee is authorized to grant a minor variance if all of the following criteria, commonly referred to as the “four tests” are met:

• It is desirable for the appropriate development or use of the land, building or structure.
• It meets the general intent and purpose of the by-law.
• It meets the general intent and purpose of the Official Plan.
• The variance is minor.

The Committee will refuse an application if, in its opinion, one or more of the above criteria have not been met.