Zoning Bylaw
The Township of Wainfleet's zoning bylaw implements the objectives and policies of the Official Plan by controlling the use of land. The zoning bylaw identifies:
- how land may be used;
- where buildings and other structures can be located;
- the types of buildings that are permitted and how they may be used;
- the lot sizes and dimensions, parking requirements, building heights and setbacks from property lines.
The Township currently has two zoning bylaws:
- Zoning Bylaw 034-2014 applies to all properties outside of the Township's Hamlets.
- Zoning Bylaw 581-78 applies to all properties within the Township's Hamlets.
What is my property zoned? |
To find the zoning for your property please follow the steps below for the applicable zoning bylaw. If you require assistance, please contact the Planning Technician. Zoning Bylaw 034-2014
Zoning Bylaw 581-78
|
How do I apply for a zoning bylaw amendment? |
If you wish to use your property for something that is not listed as a permitted use or construct a building that does not comply with the zoning requirements, then you may submit an application for a zoning bylaw amendment. A pre-consultation meeting is required before you can submit an application. The pre-consultation meeting will identify any studies or information that is required to be submitted with your application and the required application fees. If your request in minor in nature, then you may be able to apply for a minor variance. Please visit the Committee of Adjustment page for more information. Pre-consultation Meeting Request Form |
Can I add a second unit or garden suite to my property? |
Secondary SuiteA secondary suite is defined as a permanent second dwelling unit that has its own bathroom, kitchen, living and sleeping areas. A secondary suite can share a number of features with the rest of the dwelling such as a parking area, recreation area (yard), storage space etc. A secondary suite is permitted as an accessory use to a dwelling in the Agricultural (A1, A2, A3), Rural (A4) and Residential (RH, RLS) zones subject to the provisions in Section 4.20. A secondary suite can be within a dwelling or within an accessory building such as a detached garage. Section 4.20 of the Zoning Bylaw contains the following requirements for a secondary suite:
If you would like to establish a secondary suite on your property, please verify the zoning requirements with the Planning Technician. You can then apply for a building permit application. For information regarding building permit applications, please visit the Building Permit page. Township Secondary Suite Information Brochure Second Units Information Sheet Guide for Adding a Second Unit in an Existing House Garden SuiteA garden suite, also known as a granny flat, is a temporary and portable dwelling unit containing bathroom and kitchen facilities that are designed to enable elderly people to live close to their family while maintaining their independence and privacy. Garden suites are permitted for a maximum of 20 years. A garden suite may be permitted as an accessory use to a dwelling in the Agricultural (A1, A2) and Rural (A4) zones through a temporary use bylaw (zoning bylaw amendment application). A temporary use bylaw places your property in a site specific zone for a specified amount of time. If you would like to establish a garden suite on your property, please verify the zoning and eligibility requirements with the Planner. A pre-consultation meeting is required before you can submit an application. The pre-consultation meeting will identify any studies or information that is required to be submitted with your application and the required application fees. Once the temporary use bylaw has been approved, you can apply for a building permit. For information regarding building permit applications, please visit the Building Permit page. Pre-consultation Meeting Request Form |
Can I operate a business from my home? |
Home OccupationA home occupation is permitted as an accessory use in the Agricultural (A1, A2, A3), Rural (A4) and Residential (RH, RLS) zones subject to the provisions in Section 4.16. A home occupation is defined as an occupation that provides a service as an accessory use within a single detached dwelling or an accessory building. A home occupation must be performed by one or more residents of the household on the same property. Examples include services performed by an accountant, architect, auditor, dentist, medical practitioner, engineer, insurance agent, land surveyor, lawyer, realtor, planner, hairdresser, desk top publisher or word processor, teacher or day care provider. Section 4.16 of the Zoning Bylaw contains the following requirements for a home occupation:
Home IndustryA home industry is permitted as an accessory use in the Agricultural (A1, A2, A3), Rural (A4) zones subject to the provisions in Section 4.17. A home industry is defined as a small scale use providing a service to the rural or farming community that is accessory to a single detached dwelling or agriculture operation. A home industry must be performed by one or more residents of the household on the same property. Examples include a carpentry shop, metal working shop, welding shop, electrical shop or blacksmith's shop. A home industry does not include an auto repair or paint shop or furniture stripping. Section 4.17 of the Zoning Bylaw contains the following requirements for a home industry:
Starting a home occupation or home industry on your property may have additional requirements under the Ontario Building Code and a change of use permit may be required. Please contact the Chief Building Official to discuss. |