Minor Variance

What is a Minor Variance?

If your proposed change doesn’t conform exactly to the Comprehensive Zoning Bylaw, but follows its general intent, you can apply for a Minor Variance.

What is the process for a Minor Variance?

The Committee of Adjustment is tasked to decide whether a Minor Variance Application is considered “minor in nature” together with three other “tests” that the Application must meet. A Minor Variance is not merely a formality.

All decisions of the Committee of Adjustment shall be consistent with the Provincial Policy Statement, 2020.

The tests are as follows:

1. Maintain the general intent and purpose of the County of Hastings Official Plan;
2. Maintain the general intent and purpose of the Municipality of Hastings Highlands’ Comprehensive Zoning Bylaw;
3. Desirable for the appropriate development or use of the land, building or structure; and
4. Minor in nature.   

To meet the criteria for a Minor Variance, you may be required to conduct studies or reports by qualified professionals at the landowners’ expense. The Municipality may hire qualified professionals to Peer Review any studies or reports at the landowners’ expense.

Before applying for a Minor Variance, you should complete a Pre-Consultation Form and provide the Planning Department with the completed Pre-Consultation Form, site plan, and other documentation so that the Planning Department can review the proposal.