What is the Committee of Adjustment?
The Committee of Adjustment is a quasi-judicial tribunal appointed by City Council and is independent and autonomous from City Council and City Administration. It derives its jurisdiction from the Planning Act of Ontario.
Mandate
- To hear and make decisions on Applications for "Minor Variances" - where a requirement of a Zoning By-law cannot be met (under Section 45 of the Planning Act). This includes applications which deal with the enlargement or extension of a building or structure that is legally non-conforming or for a change in conforming use.
- To hear and make decisions on Applications for Consent to "sever" a property or for any agreement, mortgage or lease that extends for 21 years or more (under Section 53 of the Planning Act).
Application forms for minor variances or consent can be found by clicking on the planning link below. Please deliver them to the Infrastructure and Development Services Department, Building and Planning Division, 82 Erie Street, 2nd Floor, Stratford, Ontario.
The term of appointment for the Committee of Adjustment is concurrent with Council. The current term expires November 2026. From time to time, there may be mid-term vacancies. The City will advertise for applications to fill mid-term vacancies as necessary. Application forms can be found on the Advisory Committee page.