Step 1 – Consult with staff

Contact City staff by visiting the Building Services department, located on the second floor of City Hall, or by calling 705-848-2287 ext. 2119. A staff member will help you determine if you need a minor variance for your project.

Step 2 – Complete the application

If you need a minor variance for your build, we will give you an application form. To fully complete the application, you must include:

• Your completed application form
• A copy of the survey, showing the building's location and size, parking area and vehicle access
• Fee payment for the application (cheques are made payable to the City of Elliot Lake)
• Your written authorization identifying the name of your agent or solicitor, if you are using one

We may also ask you to send us additional photos or relevant documents, if needed.

Step 3 – Notice of Public Meeting

After we receive your application, we will send a notice of Public Meeting to you and all assessed property owners within 200 feet of the subject property. We will also give copies of the application to other City departments or external agencies, if needed.

This step allows us to gather feedback from interested parties. We then pass along their feedback in a report to the Committee of Adjustment at the Public Meeting.

Step 4 – Public Meeting and decision

It is important for your or your agent/solicitor to attend the Public Meeting to explain the reasons for your application. The Committee may proceed even if you do not attend. Other interested parties may also attend to express their views.

The Committee evaluates these comments and those made in written reports by staff before making a decision. In some cases, the Committee may attach conditions.

Step 5 – Mailing the notice of decision

Within 10 days of the Committee making its decision, the City will mail a copy of the notice to you and anyone else who has asked for a written notice.

If you wish to appeal the decision, you will find information on the procedure in the Notice of Decision. If your application has been approved and you have met all conditions, you may be able to apply for a now-compliant building permit.

Step 6 - Appeals

There is a 20-day appeal period after the Committee has made its decision. You can make an appeal by sending a Notice of Appeal to the secretary treasurer of the Committee of Adjustment. In the appeal, you must list the reasons for objecting to the decision. You must also pay a fee of $125 (cheques made payable to the Minister of Finance of Ontario).

If we have not received an appeal within 20 days of the date of the decision, it is final and binding.