Basic Definitions

Here are a few basic definitions of terms that you may encounter, and that you may find useful. Also see the ABC's of Zoning to familiarize yourself with some of the acronyms used by Development Services:

FSR: floor space ratio. This is the ratio or percentage of floor are you area allowed to build on your site. This is a ratio of developable floor are to site area

Density: density is the ratio of floor area allowed on your site or within your zoning district.

Relaxation: this is a reduction of some of the requirements of the zoning bylaw granted by the Director of Planning.

Variance: this is when some aspect of your project does not comply or meet the zoning bylaw and therefore is outside the jurisdiction of the Director of Planning. Variances are granted by the Board of Variance

Outright Application: This is an application where no relaxations are granted or required.

Roof deck: a deck that is on top of living space below

Deck: an open outdoor deck, ie uncovered that is on average, greater than 2’-0” above the ground

Terrace or patio: and outdoor space that is no greater than 2’-0” above the ground.

Non-conformity: some aspect of your project that does not meet the current zoning and development by-law

Conditional Application: There are some relaxations required or requests for additional floor space. A conditional application will typically involve getting guidance from a development planner and will require Director of Planning involvement.

Building depth: the front to back dimension the house and deck if any, or the proposed front to back dimension of the development beginning at the front yard of the site.

The ABCs of Zoning

DBI: District Building Inspector

ECO: Enquiry centre officer

HRC: Housing Renovation centre

DE: is short for a development application

DB: is short for a combined development and building application

BU: is short for a building permit application

FSR: floor space ratio

HRC: Housing Renovation Centre

PUI: Property Use Inspector

BOV: Board of Variance

DOP: Director of Planning

RYC: Rear yard Compatibility

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