The City of Stratford Committee of Adjustment held a public hearing on April 15, 2026, to review three separate planning applications as the city moves forward with updated development charges.
The City of Stratford meeting addressed property-specific requests at three local addresses. At 96 Avondale Avenue, an application was filed to reduce the minimum exterior side yard width from 4.5 metres to 2.5 metres to allow for a home addition. At 775 Douro Street, the committee considered a proposal from Cachet Developments to build an industrial project featuring two buildings totaling over 14,212 square metres, which includes a request for parking within a reduced exterior side yard. Finally, the committee reviewed a consent application for 16 Chestnut Street to create an easement for Bell Canada to recognize existing infrastructure.
These hearings coincide with the city’s rollout of updated development charges, which officially came into effect on April 5, 2026. These fees are collected to help fund essential city infrastructure and services, including fire and police protection, parks, and water systems. Under the new rate schedule, developers and property owners will see costs range from $7,268 for special and care dwellings to $18,258 for single and semi-detached units.
Projects located within the Riverbend areas are also subject to additional stormwater management charges. These development charges are governed by a by-law that remains in effect until April 6, 2027, with annual adjustments based on construction price statistics.
The Committee of Adjustment operates as an independent, quasi-judicial board appointed by the city council. Its role is to make decisions on specific planning matters like minor variances and land severances in accordance with provincial planning laws.
