Committee of Adjustment

Minor Variance

What is a Minor Variance?

A variance is a minor change to the Zoning By-law for a specific property. The Committee of Adjustment may approve the variance if it is satisfied that the variance maintains the general intent of the Official Plan and the Zoning By-law, if the proposed development will be appropriate and if the variance is minor.

Applying for a Minor Variance

An application for Minor Variance or Relief from Municipal Code Sign or Fence Regulation is required. The Committee of Adjustment meets on a regular basis as outlined below. Meeting dates are subject to change. The deadline for submissions is typically six weeks before a scheduled meeting.

Consent/Severance

What is a Consent/Severance?

Consent of the Committee of Adjustment is required to:

• Divide/sever property for the purpose of selling it
• Validate title
• Lease land for a period of over 21 years
• Establish a right of way
• Create an easement, or
• Adjust a lot line

The Planning Act stipulates that consent must be granted before a parcel of land can be divided to create an additional lot(s). This process is referred to as a land severance. Controlling the division of land through “severance” gives the City of Brantford a mechanism for ensuring that the creation of lots is consistent with the planning policies of the Province and the City of Brantford.

Applying for a Consent

An application for Consent/Severance Approval is required. The Committee of Adjustment meets on a regular basis as outlined below. Meeting dates are subject to change. The deadline for submissions is typically six weeks before a scheduled meeting.