Board of Variance
The Board of Variance reviews minor variances to the municipal zoning bylaw, under specific restrictions defined in the Local Government Act.
Typically the board will hear applications for relaxation of regulations for siting, dimensions or size of a residential building, if following the bylaw would create undue hardship for the owner. Typically, a property owner seeking a variance would discuss the issue with a planner at municipal hall and determine whether to seek a board hearing, or apply to council.
The board is a quasi-judicial body separate from the local government with its own authority under the Local Government Act.
Application Process:
- Click here to download an application form. The application fee is $340.
- Completed applications and the application fees must be submitted no later than 35 days prior to a scheduled meeting. Applications for hearings are received in the Community Life department at Municipal Hall.
- Notices are sent to all owners and tenants at least 10 days prior to the scheduled meeting that the property is either subject to an application or adjacent to a property subject to an application.
The Board and Hearings:
The board consists of three members, who are appointed by council for a three-year term and meets at Municipal Hall.
Board hearings are public meetings at which time the applicant or their representative present their application to the board. The public may offer their input on the application either prior to or during the hearing. Input from the public received prior to the meeting should be in writing so all parties are privy to the same information.
Need more information?
For questions of a technical nature, please contact the Community Life department at 604-935-8166.
For questions regarding board packages and meetings, or if you wish to provide input on an application, please contact the Legislative Services department at 604-935-8110.
