If you're considering submitting an application to the Toronto Committee of Adjustment, or any other city in Ontario, you likely have some questions. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions that clients ask planning consulting firms in Toronto relating to the Committee of Adjustment.
1. What is the Committee of Adjustment?
The Committee of Adjustment is a municipal board that hears applications for minor variances, land severances, and consent applications. The board is made up of citizen members appointed by City Council and is responsible for making decisions on these types of applications.
2. What is a Minor Variance?
A minor variance is a request to deviate slightly from the zoning bylaws of a city or municipality. Whether you are building a new custom home, severing your lot, or constructing a laneway house, garden suite or multiplex, odds are a minor variance will be required. This can include requests for changes to building height, setbacks, and lot coverage, among other things.
3. What is a Land Severance?
A land severance is the division of land into two or more lots. This can include creating a new lot for a house, cottage, or other development.
4. What is a Consent Application?
A consent application is a request to sever land or easements, change the use of land, or make other changes to the legal description of a property. See our blog post on Navigating the Consent to Sever Process in Ontario.
5. How do I submit an application to the Committee of Adjustment?
To submit an application to the Committee of Adjustment, a complete application form must be submitted to the City with payment of the required fee. A detailed description of the proposed development, including plans and drawings, and any supporting documentation required by the municipality must also be provided. Read our post about Applying to the Committee of Adjustment.
6. What is the Timeline for a Committee of Adjustment Application?
The timeline for a Committee of Adjustment application can vary depending on the municipality and the complexity of the application. Generally, the process can take several months, including time for public notice and a public hearing. Our post on the changes introduced by Bill 23 provides an overview of the new timelines.
7. What factors does the Committee of Adjustment consider when making decisions?
The Committee of Adjustment considers several factors when making decisions, including the impact on neighbouring properties, conformity with the official plan and zoning bylaws, and the general intent and purpose of the bylaw. Our post on Tips for Getting Approved at the Committee of Adjustment provides extra insight on this topic.
8. Can I Appeal a Decision of the Committee of Adjustment?
Neighbours cannot appeal a positive outcome on your project as a result of legislature approved in Bill 23. Read our post on the changes introduced by Bill 23 for more information on changes to appeal rights.
As an experienced Urban Planning Consulting Firm, we are available to service all of your development needs across Ontario. For more information, please contact us at info@cofaplanner.ca or call us at (416) 558-8832
How Can our Planning Consulting Firm Help You?
Urban planning consulting firms are trained to assess and understand the dynamics of cities and regions, including land use, transportation networks, zoning regulations, and environmental factors (see here for more on what urban planning firms do). This knowledge is critical for both homeowners and developers looking to gain planning approvals in Ontario. This plays a pivotal role in property values and investment decisions. Visit our blog post on how a planning consultant can help you add value to your property.
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