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Minor Variances and Consents

Committee of Adjustment



How long will it take?

The approximate total processing time for an application without an appeal is about 6 – 8 weeks.  The Committee meets on Wednesdays at 3:00 p.m. only when there are applications to be heard.

What information is Required?

This depends on the nature of the variance being requested. Simple changes require less information. At a minimum, you should be prepared to provide the following information:

- an accurate plan of the property showing its size and boundaries, as well as existing buildings, driveways, and uses.  It should also identify the location of the variance requested. A plan prepared by a surveyor would be best.
- a written description of the minor variance requested and the reasons why it is needed.

Sometimes, more information is necessary. You should contact the Planning Department before making the application so that the specific information required for minor variance application can be determined.

Where do you apply for a Variance?

Application forms are available at the City’s Building & Planning Department, located at Suite 1, 45 King Street, Dryden, Ontario or scroll to the bottom of this page and follow the link at the bottom to download the following the Minor Variance Application Form.

What is the process?

Once the completed application is received, the Secretary-Treasurer will start the hearing process. Notices of your proposal are sent to all property owners of land within 60 m (200ft) of your property at least ten days in advance of the public hearing. This notice is also sent to a number of City Departments and other agencies. You are also notified of the time and place of the hearing, at which time you must attend to make a verbal presentation of your case. Any interested parties may also attend the hearing to make representations and you will have the right to rebuttal should you so desire. After hearing the application, the Committee of Adjustment makes a decision. The decision is subject to a 20-day appeal period from the date of the hearing, during which time you have the right to appeal to the Ontario Municipal Board, or any interested party has the right to appeal to the Ontario Municipal Board. At the end of the appeal time period, if there has been no appeal the Committee’s decision is final and binding.

Who can apply?

The owner of the property, or anyone authorized by the owner in writing to act on his or her behalf can make an application for a variance.

Minor Variances

The City of Dryden Committee of Adjustment is authorized by Dryden City Council to grant minor variances to the normal requirements of its zoning by-law. If you have an existing or proposed development which does not comply with the regulations contained in the zoning by-law, you may apply to the Committee for relief from the by-law.

How do I appeal a decision?

If you are dissatisfied with the decision you may, during the 20 day appeal period time, deliver personally to the Secretary-Treasurer or send by registered mail a notice of appeal, with reason for appeal, together with a cheque in the amount of $125.00 made payable to "The Minister of Finance". The appeal is then forwarded, with all necessary material, to the Ontario Municipal Board. The office of the Ontario Municipal Board will notify you of a hearing date at which time you must attend.

How much will it cost?

Minor Variances have an application fee of $350.00, and Consents are $550.  The fee is required to be paid when you make your application.  It can be paid in cash or by cheque.

Other Information

We have attempted to answer some of the basic questions you may have about the minor variance approval process.

If you need a minor variance, please call or visit the Building & Planning Department. We can advise you specifically on the information required and the timing of your particular application.


 Minor Variance Form

 Consent Application Form



City of Dryden
Committee of Adjustment
45 King Street (Suite 1), Dryden, Ontario
Tel: (807) 223-6117
Fax: (807) 223-6141