COMMITTEE OF ADJUSTMENT  SEVERANCE APPROVAL

The Committee of Adjustment: Severance Approval

The Committee of Adjustment is appointed by Town Council to make decisions on minor variances, alterations to legal non-conforming uses and consents or severances. Committees of Adjustment can allow the creation of a new legal lot. Since 1970, all land in Ontario has been subject to subdivision control (ie. Land cannot be divided into smaller parcels unless approved by the government). The "normal" approval process is through a formal plan of subdivision. The alternative, if applicable, is consent or severance approval.
Key Steps
  • Pre-consultation with staff and applicant
  • Submit complete application and fee
  • Circulated to dept/agencies; report prepared
  • Public Hearing; Report reviewed by Committee of Adjustment
  • Conditional Decision
  • Appeal period
  • Decision final
  • Fulfill Conditions
  • Finalize consent

Please see "Procedures" on cover of application for detailed steps followed and timing.
Applicant’s Roles and Responsibilities:

Each person and/or agency has defined roles and responsibilities. An Application will move through the process quickly if the applicant:

  • submits a "complete" application and a minor variance and/or severance request(s) which conforms to established policies at the local, regional and provincial levels;
  • has formulated a proposal with an understanding of existing standards;
  • provides full and reasonable information throughout the process; and
  • sets out the purpose for the application, including an assessment of any impacts (positive or negative) on the affected neighbourhood, community and/or Town
Evaluation Criteria

Applications are evaluated based on planning considerations established in provincial or local legislation and regulations. For severance, the considerations are:

  • the consent authority must determine a plan of subdivision is not necessary for property and orderly development of the municipality;
  • the health, safety and convenience of present and future inhabitants;
  • the relationship with provincial interest;
  • whether or not the proposal is premature;
  • conformity with the Official Plan;
  • requirements of existing/proposed zoning;
  • suitability of site, road access, dimensions and shape of lot;
  • natural features/flood control; and
  • adequacy of schools and utilities
Submission Requirements

Please consult with the Town’s Planning staff by calling 623-4231 before submitting an application. The basic submission requirements include:

  • a complete application form and fee(s);
  • a deed for the subject property; and
  • all required drawings.

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