Minor Variances

All development proposals must follow the Township of Douro-Dummer's Comprehensive Zoning By-law, which includes rules for each property, such as:

• Permitted uses
• Building setbacks
• Building height
• Requirements for pools and accessory structures

If changes to a site don't comply with these rules, you need to apply for a minor variance or Zoning By-law amendment. Contact Planning Staff for guidance before applying for a minor variance.

A minor variance is a small change to the Zoning By-law related to land, buildings, or structures.

Before you start

Before submitting an application for a Minor Variance, it is best to book a pre-consultation meeting. The fee for a pre-consultation meeting is listed below. We will review the proposed project and let you know if there are any studies that you need to consider with your application.

Apply for a Minor Variance

Please complete the Minor Variance Application and have it commissioned by a lawyer or Township staff prior to submission. Once complete, you are required to submit the application by email and mail or drop off a hard copy to the Township Office:

Township of Douro-Dummer
894 South Street, PO Box 92
Warsaw, ON K0L 3A0

Fees

Please review the Planning Fees and submit the appropriate fee along with the complete application. You will also need to pay Otonabee Region Conservation Authority fees.

Minor Variance Fees 2025

Committee of Adjustment

All Minor Variance applications are reviewed by the Committee of Adjustment. Any decision made by the Committee may be subject to such terms and conditions as the Committee considers advisable. Learn more about the Committee of Adjustment's review process and find out about upcoming hearing dates.

Applications

You can use the Planning Applications Dashboard to locate applications in the Township, review reports and plans submitted and provide feedback.

Check back regularly for updates. Planning staff make every effort to post new information on development applications through the links above as the information becomes available, however, some delays may occur. 

If you have an inquiry about a particular application - whether it is on this site or not - please contact the Building and Planning Department.