A bylaw limiting the width of driveways in Guelph Eramosa township has some residents concerned theirs are too wide and they may be forced to tear part of them up.
The issue arose when staff realized the driveways in Rockwood’s Noble Ridge subdivision were built wider than the zoning bylaw allowed and proposed an amendment to the bylaw to recognize that – essentially saying the width of the driveway approved on the building permit will be considered in compliance even though it’s too wide.
At a public meeting on Monday, a few residents voiced concerns about how the bylaw would affect them.
Mayor Chris White says the proposed bylaw amendment ensures that driveway widths approved during construction will be permitted, even if they don’t comply.
“Now if you make changes after the original build, that’s when you have to come to us, we have Committee of Adjustment, and we walk our way through it,” White explained.
One resident who added a decorative stone aggregate border to his driveway asked if that would be allowed. Public Works Director Harry Niemi explained those borders will be permitted.
“As it sits now, the thing to remember is that nothing will change and if there are some borders that have been added that are there, it’s if you’re going to change something after today, specifically on the boulevard portion,” Niemie said. “It just means in the future it recognizes that wider width.”
However, those who altered their driveways in older parts of Rockwood since their homes were constructed may encounter problems if they don’t comply. Those people are instructed to contact town staff if they still have concerns.
The bylaw amendment will be voted on at a later date after staff have time to consider input from the public.
