Minor Variance
The way in which land can be developed and used in the City is regulated through by-laws, such as the City’s Zoning By-law . Every property in the City of Greater Sudbury is zoned and each zone has specific provisions about what is permitted. For example:
- permitted use of land
- building locations and height
- parking spaces
- driveways
- decks
- sheds and more
These by-laws cannot anticipate all circumstances that may affect development or use of a particular property, so the Committee of Adjustment may grant a change to these provisions while still maintaining the general intent of the Official Plan and Zoning By-law. These changes are known as minor variances.
When you apply for a building permit your application will be reviewed and you will be notified if you need to apply for a minor variance.
Common types of requests for minor variance applications include (but are not limited to):
- Increase in building height
- Increase in lot coverage
- Reduction in required parking
- Reduced (front, rear or side) yard setbacks