Consent/Severance are terms used in provincial planning legislation to describe the division of land into smaller lots or to change lot property boundaries between existing parcel of land. A consent application ensures that the subdivision of land occurs within an established planning framework and supports community growth.
What is Consent?
"Consent" means getting approval to divide land without needing a full Plan of Subdivision. The Committee of Adjustment grants Consent to ensure land is divided properly, following a clear planning process.
When reviewing a Consent application, the Committee looks at several factors, including:
- Whether it follows provincial guidelines.
- If it aligns with the City’s Official Plan.
- Whether it meets the City’s Zoning By-law rules.
- Compatibility with nearby land uses.
- Availability of services and proper vehicle access.
- Whether the land is suitable for the proposed use.
- If the proposed lot design is suitable.
When do you need consent?
You need to apply for a consent to:
- Create a new lot
- Adjust property lines between two neighbouring parcels of land.
- Register or discharge a mortgage on part of a property.
- Establish lease agreements in excess of 21 years
- Establish an easement or right-of-way.
- Validate title.
For more than two new lots, a Plan of Subdivision is usually required. Exceptions may apply if:
- The land fronts onto a municipal-standard public road.
- The development is considered infill.
- All required subdivision fees are paid.
How to apply for consent
Step 1: Pre-Consultation
Staff strongly encourage a pre-consultation meeting before applying for consent. Visit the pre-consultation webpage or contact a City Planner for details.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Apply online through your City Dashboard Account and include:
- A valid pre-consultation form or checklist.
- A survey sketch, in metric, that was prepared by an Ontario Land Surveyor.
- PIN Page or Deed
- A completed Owner Authorization Form (available when applying in your City Dashboard account).
- Supporting studies, plans, and materials listed in the pre-consultation checklist.
- All required fees:
- Any additional forms listed in the application (Schedules B-D).
Step 3: Attend the Hearing
Your application will be reviewed at a Committee of Adjustment Hearing. The public can attend and share comments. You or your agent must be present to answer questions.
Check the Committee of Adjustment webpage for submission deadlines and hearing dates.
Consent application - process and timelines
Consent Application
Time to Process: 90 Days
| Step | City's Role | Applicants Role | Target Timeline |
|---|
| Pre-Consultation | -- | Complete Pre-consultation process | -- |
|---|
| Application Submission | -- | Submits:- formal application
- preliminary sketch prepared by OLS and studies
| -- |
|---|
| - | Reviews files (i.e., names, unlocked status) | -- | 2 days |
| - | -- | Pays required fees | -- |
| Review for Completeness | Secretary-Treasurer reviews material and issues notice of complete/incomplete application. | -- | 1 week |
|---|
| Circulation (When Complete) | Secretary-Treasurer circulates to internal departments and external agencies. | -- | 1 week |
|---|
| Committee of Adjustment Hearing | Held to inform and receive comments from area residents. | Applicant or agent attends to present and answer questions. | Occurs 14 days after notice is given in accordance with Committee's schedule. |
|---|
| - | Planning report is on Committee's agenda. Committee will make a decision on the application. | -- | -- |
| - | Notice of Decision given by Secretary-Treasurer. | -- | 1 week |
| Provisional Consent Granted | If no appeals, Provisional Consent granted. Declaration issued by Secretary Treasurer. | -- | 20 days after Notice of Decision |
|---|
| - | -- | Applicant has 2 years from date of Notice of Decision to fulfill conditions, if any. | -- |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I get a refund if my application is denied?
- No, refunds are not available. Staff still spend time reviewing and processing applications, whether they are approved or denied.
Can I appeal the decision if my application is denied?
- Only the applicant, the Minister or a specified person or public body that has an interest in the matter may appeal a decision to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT). If you are eligible and disagree with a decision of the Committee of Adjustment, you can appeal to the OLT within the 20-day appeal period.
