You may need a consent to:
- create a new lot
- add land to an existing lot
- create an easement or right-of-way
- lease land long-term (more than 21 years)
- transfer or mortgage part of a property
Consent
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A consent (also called a land severance) is the authorized separation of a parcel of land to create five or less new lots.
You may need consent to:
- Divide a lot into five or less parcels
- Add land to an existing lot
- Create a right-of-way or access over another property
How to Apply
Step 1 – Pre-Consultation with City Staff
You must complete a pre-consultation with City staff before submitting an application. The purpose of pre-consultation is to identify required studies, plans and documents, confirm submission requirements for a complete application and provide early feedback on your proposal. Applicable fees will apply.
Complete the pre‑consultation form and submit it with supporting documents through the CityView portal below.
Step 2 – Submit the Application
If pre‑consultation has already taken place, complete the Consent Application Form and submit it along with all required supporting materials through the CityView portal below.
Step 3 – Payment of Application Fees
Once staff has reviewed the application and related submission materials, payment of the applicable fees will be required for the application to be considered complete.
See the Planning Application Fees page for a full fee schedule.
Application Process
The review process typically takes six to eight weeks, but may take longer for complex applications. The stages include:
- Pre‑consultation review — staff confirms application requirements prior to submission.
- Application circulation and public hearing notice — notices are issued to the applicant, nearby property owners and anyone who requested notice. The application is circulated to city departments and relevant agencies for comments.
- Public notice sign — a notice sign must be posted on the property at least 14 days before the Committee hearing.
- Staff recommendation report — a report is prepared for the Committee of Adjustment meeting.
- Committee of Adjustment meeting — the applicant may be asked to answer questions; members of the public may make written or verbal submissions.
- Notice of decision — the decision is sent to the applicant and others who requested notice.
- Appeal period — there is a 20‑day appeal period in which the decision may be appealed to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) by the applicant or other interested parties.
- Final decision — if there is no appeal within the appeal period, the decision becomes final and binding. A consent certificate is issued once conditions are satisfied.
Refer to our Consent Application Flowchart for an overview of the application process.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following frequently asked questions provide additional information about consent applications, the approval process and related planning requirements in Belleville.
What is the difference between a consent and a subdivision?
A consent is typically used to create a small number of lots. A plan of subdivision is used for larger developments, usually involving multiple lots and new roads.
Do I need to meet with staff before applying?
Yes. A pre-consultation meeting is required before you apply.
This helps you understand:
- what studies and documents are needed
- whether your proposal is feasible
- how to submit a complete application
What should I include with my consent application submission?
To help avoid delays, ensure your application clearly describes the nature of your request and that all information provided is accurate and complete. Applicants may wish to seek professional planning or legal advice before submitting. If you are using an agent, written authorization from the property owner must be included.
Your submission must also include:
- A completed application form with all required signatures
- The application fee (cheque payable to the City of Belleville)
- The pre-consultation checklist and all required supporting materials
Please note that incomplete or inaccurate applications will not be accepted or processed.
What happens after I submit my application?
The process includes:
- circulation to City departments and agencies
- notice to nearby property owners and a posted sign on the property
- a public meeting with the Committee of Adjustment
- a decision issued after the meeting
What is the role of the Committee of Adjustment?
The Committee of Adjustment is responsible for reviewing applications for consent and other Planning Act applications. It considers whether a requested consent:
- Maintains the general intent and purpose of the Official Plan and Zoning By‑law
- Satisfies the applicable criteria outlined in Section 51(24) of the Planning Act
- Is the appropriate means of land severance, instead of a plan of subdivision
The committee’s decisions are made under the authority of the Ontario Planning Act.
How long does the process take?
Typical review time is six to eight weeks. Some applications may take longer, depending on complexity.
Can a decision be appealed or conditioned?
Yes.
- Decisions can be appealed to the Ontario Land Tribunal within 20 days
- Most approvals include conditions that must be met within two years
- If no appeal is filed, the decision becomes final and binding
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