Municipalities have by-laws. Those by-laws tell us what a building can be used for, how high it can be, how far from the property lines it must be, etc. As a first look into a possible renovation/ new build, zoning requirements must be evaluated.
I mean hey, who wants to spend 100+hours designing their new six-plex apartment building just to find out it’s not allowed on their land? No one.
Step One. Determining the by-laws that affect you.
Zones are classified by areas. Using your civic number and street name, determine which “zone” you fall into. Once the zone has been determined, look-up the applicable by-laws. Alternatively, scroll to the “Let us help you!” section below and we will take care of this step.
Ideally, the design of the project will fall within the by-law regulations set out. If not, a “minor variance” can be applied for. This is a request to the municipality to provide relief from a certain (or several) areas of the by law.
Take note *Minor variances are not always approved.
There are times where the variance is applied for, the fees are paid, and the variance isn’t approved by the committee. It happens. Hiring a design professional can help guide you to reduce the amount of minor variances required. Scroll to the ‘’Let us help you!’’ section below to learn how.
Zoning Example:
Mrs. Jones would like to build a carport for her 1971 Plymouth ‘Cuda. The By-Law for her zone says she must be 5’ away from the property line. In order for the vehicle to fit in the desired location, there is only 3’ to the property line. Mrs. Jones’ project would therefore not comply with the By-Law the way she is proposing. What will she do?
Option one: Sell the Cuda and forget the carport… Yeah, Mrs. Jones doesn’t approve.
Option two: Request relief from the 5’ requirement by applying for a “minor variance” with the municipality. The application would explain the scope of work, why the set-back can’t be complied with and why the request is being made.
Let us help you!
Don’t want to tackle zoning review and minor variances alone? We offer zoning review and coordination as part of our services to ensure a smooth planning phase for our clients. From residential and commercial renovations to new builds, we prepare the supporting documents and submit them to the municipality. Then, provide assistance should the zoning department have any questions.
One less thing on your ‘’To-Do’’ list!
Building permits. Two little words that mean so much.
