Zara Georgis

The City of Toronto appealed a Committee of Adjustment decision approving minor variances for a rear deck addition at a residential property.

The variances related to soft landscaping, deck encroachment into the rear yard setback, and deck height.

A neighbouring property owner also opposed the variances due to privacy and sightline concerns.

During the hearing, the applicant proposed modifications to the deck design, including privacy screens and a reduction in the deck's length.

The Toronto Local Appeal Body allowed the appeal in part, approving the variances subject to conditions requiring the deck to be built in accordance with the modified plans, finding that the reduced encroachment and added landscaping met the four tests under s. 45(1) of the Planning Act.