What notice do I need to give neighbors for a variance?

In Ottawa, you don't personally notify neighbors for a minor variance application - the City of Ottawa handles all neighbor notification as part of the official process.

When you apply for a minor variance through the City of Ottawa's Committee of Adjustment, the city automatically sends written notice to all property owners within 60 meters (approximately 200 feet) of your property. This notification happens at least 10 days before the scheduled hearing date.

How Ottawa's Neighbor Notification Works

The City of Ottawa mails notices directly to affected neighbors and also posts a sign on your property that's visible from the street. The notice includes details about your proposed variance, the hearing date, time, and location, plus information on how neighbors can participate in the process.

You'll need to pay for this notification as part of your application fee. The current minor variance application fee in Ottawa is approximately $1,200-$1,500, which covers the city's administrative costs including neighbor notification, staff review, and the hearing process.

What Neighbors Can Do

Neighbors who receive notice can submit written comments supporting or opposing your variance, or they can attend the Committee of Adjustment hearing in person. The committee considers all feedback when making their decision, though they focus primarily on the four tests required under the Planning Act: does the variance maintain the general intent of the Official Plan and Zoning By-law, is it desirable for appropriate development, and is it minor in nature.

Timeline for Your Application

After you submit your complete application to the City of Ottawa Planning Department (613-580-2424), it typically takes 6-8 weeks to schedule your hearing. The neighbor notification goes out automatically once your hearing date is set, giving you no additional work beyond submitting your application properly.

What to Watch For

Some applicants make the mistake of informally discussing their variance with neighbors before applying, which can sometimes create unnecessary opposition. While being neighborly is good practice, remember that the formal notification process is what legally matters. Focus on ensuring your application clearly demonstrates how your proposal meets the four required tests.

For minor variance applications in Ottawa, contact the Committee of Adjustment at 613-580-2424 or visit ottawa.ca/planning to access the application forms and current fee schedule.