Minor exemption

A minor exemption is a special permission granted by Municipal council, on exception, in order to render an existing or proposed non-conforming situation, into a conforming situation in relation to municipal by-laws.

For example, if someone wishes to build a garage at three metres from his property line, whereas the planning by-law allows for a minimal distance to be respected between the property line and the garage, of 4.5 metres. This person will request a "minor exemption" by explaining the reason why he cannot respect the existing by-law.

If the minor exemption is accepted by municipal council, a building permit for the construction of the garage at a distance of three metres from the property line will then be given.

If the request is refused, the garage must be built at a distance of 4.5 metres from the property line, as stipulated in the municipal by-law.

EVALUATION STANDARDS FOR A MINOR EXEMPTION

• A minor exemption must respect the objectives of the Planning By-law.
• All provisions pertaining to zoning and subdivision, other than those relative to usage and land use density, can be subjected to a minor exemption.
• A minor exemption can be granted if the application of the Planning By-law causes a serious prejudice to the person making the request.
• A minor exemption must not hinder the right of enjoyment, by the owners of adjoining properties, of their right of property.
• The application must comply with all of the provisions of the construction By-law and of the zoning and subdivision By-laws not subject to a minor exemption.

PROCEDURE
 

Applicants must accompany their completed request with the required amount according to fees in force, in order to cover fees relating to the study and administration of the file.

The Planning and Sustainable Development Advisory Committee will be required to offer a recommendation for each request to Municipal Council.

The procedure will take approximately two months.

Request for a minor exemption