q & a - regulations

what is the ontario building code ?

The Ontario Building Code (OBC) is a document issued by the Authorities that prescribes minimum building standards that must be met when constructing a building.

These requirements are enforced by local building departments at two stages; (1) the building permit application, where the construction drawings must comply with the OBC, and (2) during construction, by the building inspectors.

The OBC is updated periodically often becoming more restrictive.

Internet website link:

Ontario Building Code - www.obc.mah.gov.on.ca/scripts/index.asp

what are zoning bylaws ?

Zoning Bylaws are requirements of Authorities that regulate your property. Bylaws vary from area to area (even within a municipality), change periodically, and often become more restrictive as time goes on. Never assume that you can build something just because it has been done elsewhere or before, even if was built quite recently.

The most common bylaws restrict (a) permitted uses, (b) the location that you can build relative to lot lines & high water lines (setbacks), (c) minimum sizes, (d) maximum sizes (lot coverage), (e) maximum heights, and (f) the number of buildings.

Waterfront lots often have even more restrictions; with the most common governing boathouses, docks, bunkies, cabins, tree clearing, as well as fish & deer habitats.

It is important early on to determine what the bylaws are for your specific property, to establish what it is that you will be permitted to do. (In certain situations, ‘exceptions’ may be made to specific bylaw requirements, in the form of a ‘variance’.)

Internet website links:

Ontario Municipal Home Pages - www.a mo.on.ca/YLG/ylg/ontario.html

Conservation Authorities of Ontario - www.conservation-ontario.on.ca

Fisheries and Oceans Canada - www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/index.htm

Ministry of Natural Resources - www.mnr.gov.on.ca/MNR/index.html

what is a variance ?

Variances are a means in which a property owner can apply to the Authorities for potential relief from a particular bylaw. For example, an owner may wish to build slightly closer to their property line than is permitted in the local bylaws.

The process generally involves an application, fee payment, and a public ‘hearing’. A decision is then made based on the planning department’s recommendation and comments from neighbours.