In the Township of West Lincoln, there are three main types of Consent applications. Select your topic of interest below to learn more.

Lot creation

If approved, this type of Consent application will result in the creation of a new lot.

Minor boundary adjustment

If approved, this type of Consent application will not result in the creation of a new lot. Minor Boundary Adjustments are intended to be used for legal or technical purposes to shift existing lot lines. For example, if someone needs more room to accommodate their required septic system.

Easement

This type of Consent application is only required if a private easement agreement over a piece of land is required for more than 21 years. This application will not result in the creation of a new lot.

Apply

Consent applications can only be supported under specific circumstances in the rural area (outside of Smithville) and on a case by case basis within the urban boundary of Smithville. 

If you are thinking about applying for a Consent application, please contact the Township's Planning department.

Process

The Committee of Adjustment (COA) hears Consent applications. There are four steps in the Township's Consent application process. 

Pre-Consultation

A pre-consultation with the Planning department is required before submitting your application. This will determine what outside agencies will need to review your application. i.e.) Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority and/or the Region of Niagara. You may need to submit specific drawings/documents with your application. A pre-consultation meeting will outline these drawings/documents.

Notice of Hearing

After submitting your application, Township Staff circulate a Notice of Hearing. The Notice of Hearing is sent to every land owner within 120 metres of the property. The Notice is also sent to Township departments and outside agencies. You must post a yellow Notice of Hearing sign on the subject property at least 14 days before the hearing takes place.

Hearing

Planning staff will prepare a planning report to present at the hearing. The COA hears your application, and makes a decision to approve or deny your application. If the COA requires more information, they may defer your application.

Notice of Decision

A Notice of Decision is then sent out to the COA members, you (the applicant), and anyone who has requested a decision. If no appeal is received within 20 days of the mailing of the decision, the COA's decision is final and subject to any conditions outlined in the decision. There can be anywhere between 8 to 18 conditions attached to a Consent decision. You have 1 year from the date of approval to clear the conditions associated with your application before the approval expires.

If an appeal is received by the Township, notice is given to you (the applicant) and the appeal is forwarded to the Local Planning Appeals Tribunal.

Submission

You must make sure that your application is complete and that you pay applicable fees. You must submit a survey plan with your application. Other documents will be required as identified at a pre-consultation meeting. The site sketch will be to scale and show all relevant information such as:

  • Existing buildings on the property
  • Proposed buildings on the property
  • Existing setbacks to property lines
  • Proposed setbacks to property lines
  • Existing septic system

Timing

A Consent application can take between six months to a year depending on how fast you can clear the required conditions. An appeal of the Consent application will increase your application's processing time.