Update to Communication Tower and Antenna Preferred Location Protocol

As a result of the community feedback received, we have updated some of the proposed changes. The proposed changes to the County’s Protocol include:

1. Delegated Authority for Streamlined Review Process: Authority to review and issue letters of concurrence or non-concurrence will be delegated to staff, specifically the Director of Development Planning, Development Services Division. Council will continue to provide direction on any applications which do not meet the Protocol.
2. Reduced Setback Requirements: The required distance from residential uses, natural heritage system features, and other sensitive land uses will be changed to 1.5 times the height of the tower, down from the current 3 times the height of the proposed tower, to a minimum of 120 meters.
3. Removal of Business Case Requirements: Staff are proposing to solely require a Site Selection/Justification Report which focuses on land use capability at a local level.
4. Revised Parking Requirements: The requirement for providing one parking space at each new communication tower and communication antenna site will be amended to require that new communication tower and communication antenna sites have safe access to a public right-of-way in the event of an emergency and/or if servicing is required.
5. Natural Heritage System vs Natural Hazards – Clarification has been provided to further distinguish Natural Heritage Systems from Natural Hazards.
6. Removal of Lighting Provisions – This requirement has been removed as Transport Canada will review and provide comments regarding painting and/or lighting requirements.
7. Agency Consultation – Further clarification has been provided regarding agency consultation requirements.
8. Document formatting adjustments have been made to improve readability and usability.

View the draft document. These changes aim to make the installation process more efficient while ensuring that local concerns are addressed and that the community is informed.

Presentation to Council, February 11, 2025

Join us or tune in as County Staff present a recommendation report to Council at the Council Meeting on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. This public meeting is available for viewing live or previously recorded, on the County of Brant's YouTube Channel.

Any person who wishes to speak or make a verbal presentation at the meeting must request to register as a delegation. To request to be a delegate please complete the online Delegation Request Form. For complete details, please visit the Speaking Before Council webpage.