A Board of Variance application may be necessary when a liquor or cannabis business meets most zoning requirements but cannot comply with a specific regulation, often due to the physical limitations of a property or building. Thrive Liquor & Cannabis Advisors prepares applications, organizes required documents, and helps prepare presentations for hearings.
What a board of variance considers
A Board of Variance reviews small adjustments to zoning regulations when a property’s physical conditions make full compliance difficult. It does not change zoning or permit new uses.
Common variance requests include:
- Setbacks or entrance placement
- Floor area limits in older buildings
- Parking stall or loading-area placement
- Relaxation to a specific liquor or cannabis policy such as distancing buffers.
- Accessibility-related requirements
- Minor adjustments affecting tasting rooms, patios, or retail entrances
- Site constraints that limit where doors, windows, or service areas can be placed
An approved variance application prevents the need to find a new location that meets all zoning requirements, which can be both costly and time consuming.
How the process works
Each municipality has its own procedures, although you can expect the following:
- Initial review
We review your drawings and zoning requirements to confirm whether the request meets variance guideline. - Preparing the application
We prepare the rationale, plans, photos, and supporting materials, then submit the completed variance application to the municipality. Sometimes community engagement is required.
Thrive can facilitate a campaign where community feedback is gathered including supporting letters and documents.
- Public notification
Most municipalities notify nearby property owners before the hearing. Staff comments may be provided, but the Board makes the decision. - Board of Variance application hearing
Most municipalities notify nearby property owners before the hearing. Staff comments may be provided, but the Board makes the decision. - Decision
Most Boards provide a decision at the meeting. Some approvals include conditions that must be satisfied before permits can be issued.
What we do
Thrive Advisors prepares clear, organized applications for liquor stores, cannabis retailers, breweries, distilleries, tasting rooms, restaurants and many other hospitality businesses.
Our support includes:
- Reviewing zoning regulations and confirming the appropriate variance
- Preparing the rationale and full submission package
- Coordinating drawings, photos, and supporting documents
- Consulting on hearing strategy
- Managing deadlines and municipal requirements
- Presenting at the hearing if requested
- Assisting with any follow-up questions or conditions
We work with liquor and cannabis retailers and producers throughout Western Canada, and with liquor operators in select U.S. states. View the areas we serve and other types of licenses we support.
Variance applications FAQ
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