By Claude & Parth on 2026-04-11, City: Richmond Hill, View Transcript
The Richmond Hill Committee of Adjustment met to review several development applications. The committee approved a consent application to extend a McDonald’s lease at 13233 Yonge Street and approved minor variances for a new two-storey home at 10 Claridge Drive, adding a condition after staff flagged issues in the arborist materials. The committee also deferred two higher-profile matters: a village core lot division at 135 Center Street West, and a minor variance application at 21 Mayburn Crescent involving a basement stairwell constructed without permits.
The committee considered an application to divide a property in the village core that would create lots with an 11.3-metre frontage, below the 12-metre minimum. One neighbouring speaker supported reinvestment in the area, saying it was “refreshing to see new construction contributing to the revitalization of the village core area,” and that “a thoughtful redevelopment such as this plays a critical role in bringing new life, renewed energy, and long-term investment into the established neighborhood.”
Committee members focused on village core character and precedent. Member Payne pointed to the heritage context, noting the area includes “designated heritage buildings and listed heritage properties,” and said: “I think we owe it to the residents of Richmond Hill to protect the jewels in our city. Once they’re gone, they’re gone. And I think we can do better.” Member Garci warned that approving reduced frontage could be repeatedly cited in future applications: “there is the risk that people or residents come in and always continue to reference past files as justification for obtaining approval for just another couple meters.”
The committee deferred the application to allow the applicant to consult with Town staff and return with revisions.
The committee reviewed a minor variance request related to a basement stairwell constructed in the side yard without permits. Neighbour Sandra Dishi (23 Mayburn Crescent) told the committee: “I returned home from my vacation and I was shocked to see a gigantic stairwell built down the side of my property. This construction was done without a permit, without notice, and it does not fall within the city bylaws regulations.” She asked the committee to consider safety and privacy impacts on her family.
Pat Pollock, Chair of the Maverin Area Residents Association, said: “I am appalled at the lack of diligence in this build, lack of consideration for the neighborhood in which this homeowner owns and rents out a property, and the lack of caring about his neighbors.” Another speaker argued the work should not be legalized after the fact: “This structure should never have been constructed. It violates zoning provisions. Bylaws need to be followed. They are there for a reason. Does not have approvals. No permits were issued before construction.”
Committee members also emphasized that the lack of permits mattered. Mr. Gari told the applicant: “We have to acknowledge the fact that you went and did this without a permit. There’s no guarantee that if you applied for a permit for this basement entrance, you would have gotten it.” Mr. Detszi suggested a potential condition if the matter returns for approval: “You need to install a wood privacy fence from the back of the property up to the front facade of the home with a return gate so they have privacy and safety for their grandchildren.”
The committee deferred the application to allow additional work on a solution, including consultation related to a gas line near the property line and revised plans addressing privacy and safety.
The committee approved a consent application required under the Planning Act to extend an existing McDonald’s lease beyond 21 years. Applicant Adam Shipwick explained: “This application is required under section 50 sub3 subf of the planning act as it seeks to permit a lease in excess of 21 years. The purpose is to facilitate the continuation and extension of the existing lease with McDonald’s restaurants of Canada which currently operates on the site.” No public opposition was presented.
The committee approved minor variances for a proposed two-storey single detached dwelling. The agent, Christine Dan, described the request as “three minor variances related to the rear yard setback and the exterior side setback.”
During discussion, members referenced concerns raised by Town staff about the tree-related documentation. Member Payne noted: “I note in the additional comments section that the parks and natural heritage pointed out that there were several errors in the arborist report.” The committee added a condition requiring revisions to the tree preservation materials to the satisfaction of Forestry before final sign-off.
Passed:
- Approval of consent application for McDonald’s lease extension at 13233 Yonge Street
- Deferral of the 135 Center Street West applications to allow consultation with Town staff and revisions
- Deferral of the 21 Mayburn Crescent application pending gas line consultation and revised plans addressing privacy/safety measures
- Approval of minor variances for 10 Claridge Drive, with an added condition to correct arborist report issues to Forestry’s satisfaction
- Approval of minutes (with minor corrections)
Rejected: - None
Deferred:
- 135 Center Street West applications
- 21 Mayburn Crescent application