The Village of Senneville has adopted By-law No. 507 on Conditional Uses to provide some flexibility in land-use planning while protecting the quality of life and the unique character of our municipality. This by-law allows residents or property owners, under certain conditions, to obtain authorization for a use that is not normally permitted in a specific zone under the zoning by-law.
In other words, a conditional use is an activity or use of a parcel of land that is not automatically allowed but may be authorized if it meets specific criteria and the municipal council approves it. This approach allows interesting projects to be welcomed in the community while maintaining control over their impacts.
How the Process Works
Anyone wishing to obtain a conditional use must submit an official application to the Planning Department. The application must include plans, a detailed description of the proposed use, and any other relevant information. The Planning Advisory Committee then reviews the request and provides an opinion. A public notice is also published to inform residents and allow them to learn about the project. Finally, the municipal council makes a decision: it may approve the use, approve it with certain conditions, or refuse it.
Example: Agrotourism
One example covered by the by-law is agrotourism. A farm operator must request permission to offer activities that allow the public to discover agriculture and local products. This may include farm product sales, farm-to-table meals, educational visits, farm receptions, or horseback riding when linked to an existing stable. However, certain restrictions apply—for instance, tourist accommodations are not allowed unless a guesthouse is permitted under the zoning by-law.
Evaluation Criteria
The application is first presented to the Urban Planning Advisory Committee (PAC), which makes a recommendation so that the municipal council can make an informed decision. In deciding whether to grant a request, the council relies on several criteria: respect for the residential and peaceful character of the area, the management of nuisances (noise, odors, dust), traffic and circulation generated, parking availability, harmonious integration into the landscape, as well as the capacity of infrastructure (water, sanitation). The objective of this by-law is twofold: on the one hand, to ensure that the proposed use provides added value to the community and, on the other hand, that it integrates harmoniously into the environment and aligns with the values of Senneville.
Non-compliance
As with any municipal by-law, failure to comply with the provisions or conditions results in fines provided by law. These sanctions are intended to ensure that conditional uses are carried out responsibly, for the benefit of the entire community.