The Board of Variance reviews applications for minor zoning variances when strict compliance with the Zoning Bylaw would cause undue hardship. It may also consider requests related to additions or structural changes to non-conforming buildings.
The Board is an independent decision-making body made up of volunteer members appointed by City Council. Elected officials and City staff cannot serve on the Board.
All decisions of the Board of Variance are final.
What the Board can consider
The Board may vary certain zoning requirements related to:
- Location of buildings or structures
- Size or dimensions of buildings
- Setbacks
- Building height
- Parcel coverage
The Board cannot:
- Change land use or density
- Approve use changes
- Override Official Community Plan policies
- Approve variances that would negatively affect neighbouring properties
When is a Board of Variance Order required?
You can apply for a variance to the Board of Variance if following a zoning rule about the location, size or dimensions of a building or structure would cause undue hardship.
Financial hardship alone is not grounds for approval.
Before you apply
Before submitting an application:
- Review the interactive zoning map and Zoning Bylaw to confirm current zoning regulations.
- Check the Official Community Plan designation for your property.
- Review the Board of Variance Bylaw No. 1697, 1994.
- Contact Planning staff to discuss your proposal.
Planning staff can help confirm requirements, fees and submission standards before you apply.
Incomplete applications will be returned.
Application process
1. Review requirements
Review the application guidelines included with the form to understand submission requirements.
2. Meet with Planning staff
Once you have prepared sufficient information, staff will arrange a meeting to review your proposal and confirm next steps.
3. Submit your application
Submit the completed fillable PDF application form along with all required documents. Planning staff will provide instructions for uploading documents and paying fees.
All plans must be internally consistent. Applications that do not meet submission requirements will be returned.
4. Notice and hearing
Once a complete application is received:
- A hearing date will be scheduled.
- Adjacent property owners and occupants will be notified at least two weeks before the meeting.
- The hearing will occur within 40 days of receipt of a complete application.
5. Decision
The Board may:
- Approve the variance
- Approve with conditions
- Table the application
- Refuse the variance
Decisions of the Board of Variance are final.
Application timelines
Applications that remain inactive for six months may be closed at the discretion of the City.
Apply now
Download and complete the fillable PDF application form and submit it with the required documentation.