Board of Variance

How to Apply

Board of Variance applications are now accepted on our website.

The online application replaces the paper form and allows users to complete and submit their applications digitally, including uploading and submitting documents.

Please note the following application conditions:

  • You must have a MySaanich profile to make an application. If you do not have a profile, register for one before starting.
  • Ensure you have all documentation, per the Application Checklist, as the online application process will timeout if inactive for 15 minutes and will not be saved.
  • Pay your application fee*
    • A credit card is required to pay the permit fee to complete your application - (2.4% surcharge applicable for credit card payments)

BOV Application Information

Note: Several of the District’s planning and development application fees have been updated to reflect current processing costs and to support timely, high-quality service delivery. 

The new fees were approved by Council and come into effect on January 2, 2026. 

Application fees shall increase by 3% annually for five years, rounded down to the nearest $5.00, commencing on January 1, 2027, with the final increase occurring on January 1, 2031. 

Meeting Details 

A link to watch the meeting or speak about an application can be found on the 2026 Agendas & Minutes webpage, along with agendas, minutes and meeting details. 

Purpose

The Board of Variance is a statutory committee comprised of five volunteer representatives appointed by Council and meets once per month on the second Wednesday evening.  The Board of Variance has the power to grant minor variances from the Zoning Bylaw in situations where compliance respecting the siting, dimension, or size of a building or structure would cause a person undue hardship. A variance may not vary the density or use of land, and if granted, expires two years from the approval date.  

Minor variances include:

  • The provisions of the Tree Protection Bylaw within certain limitations.
  • The prohibition of a structural alteration or addition under Section 911(5) of the Local Government Act.
  • A subdivision servicing requirement under Section 938 (1) (c) of the Local Government Act in an area zoned for agricultural or industrial use.

For more information, please refer to the Board of Variance Bylaw.

Note: For all building permits, a BC Land Surveyor must complete a Site Survey Certificate and/or a Height Certificate for Board of Variance approved siting and height variance(s), to ensure that the building or structure complies with the approved variances.