The Committee of Adjustment is a quasi-judicial body that operates under the Planning Act. They hold public hearings and makes decisions on applications for minor variance and consent. This gives an opportunity for the public to comment on applications so that we can take this into consideration when making decisions.
You can watch the live hearings on our YouTube channel. For more information read our agendas and minutes to stay informed.
Hearing schedule |
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Review our upcoming hearing schedule to find out when you need to have all materials submitted for your project to be discussed at the next meeting.
Please note, minor variance or consent application submission does not guarantee the next hearing date. You will receive an email with your hearing date approximately four weeks in advance of the scheduled hearing. |
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Participating at a hearing |
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There are three ways that you can participate in a committee hearing. Review each option and find out how you can have your voice heard. Participate online through ZoomYou must register in advance to participate in the hearing through Zoom. Please complete the Committee of Adjustment Electronic Delegation Application at least five days before the scheduled hearing. You will need to complete a test Zoom session with City staff before the hearing. If you don't attend a test session, you will not be able to participate in the meeting. Zoom Participation Registration Submit written correspondenceIf you'd like to submit written correspondence, you need to send your comments about an application by email at least one week before the Committee hearing. You can also drop off your comments to City Hall located at 50 Church St. Comments should be addressed to Planning and Building Services. Join through telephoneTo join through telephone, please call 905.688.5601 ext. 1660 and leave a message with the following information:
You must call at least five days before the scheduled hearing. We will contact you and ask you to complete the Committee of Adjustment Electronic Delegation Application. This will provide more information about how to join by telephone. You also need to attend a test Zoom session with City staff in advance of the hearing. If you don't participate in a test session, you won't be able to participate during the meeting. You will be responsible for any costs associated with dialing-in to the meeting. |
The Committee of Adjustment consists of five voting members who are residents of St. Catharines, 18 years of age or older and own property in the city. The members serve a four-year term and are appointed by Council through the City's citizen appointment process.
The current Committee members are:
As of Nov. 28, 2022, the Province of Ontario's Bill 23 has removed third-party appeal rights for the Committee of Adjustment process. For more information, please visit Bill 23, More Homes Built Faster Act, 2022.