Planning Services Types
1
Zoning Review / Feasibility Study
A preliminary analysis to determine what can be built on a property under existing zoning and bylaws. This includes reviewing permitted uses, building height, density, setbacks, lot coverage, and parking requirements. Often, the first step is before purchasing land or proceeding with design.
2
Minor Variance Application
Required when a proposed development does not fully comply with zoning bylaws, but the variances are considered minor. Common for additions, custom homes, multiplexes, and renovations. Applications are reviewed by the Committee of Adjustment and may require public notice and hearings.
3
Consent Application (Lot Severance)
Needed to divide a property into two or more lots. This process involves a municipal review and may include conditions such as servicing, easements, or road access requirements. Often paired with new home construction or redevelopment projects.
4
Zoning By-law Amendment (ZBA)
Required when a proposed development significantly deviates from existing zoning regulations or when the intended use is not permitted. This is a more complex process involving planning justification, public consultation, and City Council approval.
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Planning Essentials Package
Scope of Services:
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Preliminary zoning and policy review (Official Plan & Zoning By-law)
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Highest-and-best-use analysis (concept-level)
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Identification of required planning approvals
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One conceptual site plan or massing diagram
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Written planning feasibility summary
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Pre-consultation readiness guidance (City checklist support)
Typical Applications:
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Minor variances (single-item or low-risk)
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Small additions or internal conversions
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Garden or laneway suite feasibility
Deliverables:
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Planning feasibility memo (PDF)
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Conceptual diagram(s)
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Approval pathway outline
Development Planning Package
Scope of Services:
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Detailed zoning compliance analysis
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Official Plan conformity review
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Planning rationale preparation
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Coordination of required planning drawings (site plan, massing, setbacks)
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Minor Variance or Zoning By-law Amendment application support
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Committee of Adjustment preparation and attendance support (1 hearing)
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Coordination with City planning staff during review
Typical Applications:
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Multi-unit conversions
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Garden suites and laneway suites
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Small apartment or multiplex projects
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Severances (consent applications)
Deliverables:
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Full Planning Rationale Report
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Submission-ready planning drawings
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Committee of Adjustment support materials
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City response coordination
Planning & Approvals Package
Scope of Services:
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Comprehensive land-use and policy analysis
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Zoning By-law Amendment and/or Official Plan Amendment support
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Site Plan Control application coordination
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Urban design and planning justification reports
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Consultant coordination (traffic, servicing, arborist, environmental)
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Community consultation and City meeting representation
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Ongoing City comments response and resubmissions
Typical Applications:
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Mid-rise or mixed-use developments
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Apartment buildings
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Infill intensification projects
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Assemblies and redevelopment sites
Deliverables:
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Full planning submission package
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All planning reports and justification documents
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City and agency coordination
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Approval management through final planning decision
