ATD provides its clients with a wide scope of services covering all aspects of the planning, design and construction process.
The Planning Phase
The Initial Site Visit: Before any design begins, the designer needs to visit the proposed location for all projects. ATD firmly believes that the building site and surrounding lands shape each project.
 Zoning Compliance Inquiries:
ATD recommends a zoning compliance inquiry be made for each project, especially water front properties. This eliminates the possibility of any surprises during the planning phase, or worse, after plans have been submitted for permits. ATD deals directly with the local planning and building departments to determine exactly how the client’s property can be utilized, and more importantly, what cannot be done.
Bylaw research & interpretation:
To avoid any unwanted surprises, ATD double checks all local bylaws pertaining to each property during the planning phase. ATD maintains a library of all current municipal bylaws. Most townships are rewriting their bylaws with a focus on maintaining waterfront properties. During this process ATD will:
- Confirm the zoning classifications for each property
- Identify any bylaws that pertain to the properties zoning
- Coordinate with a planning consultant if necessary, to help work through any potential planning issues
Preliminary Site Plan:
One of the first drawings completed for all projects is the preliminary site plan. This is a vital part of the planning stage, which helps both the designer and client better understand the proposed building site.
A Preliminary Site Plan clearly:
- Establishes the available building envelope
- Anticipates all exterior and interior views to and from the proposed building location
- Anticipates storm water drainage and natural runoff
- Explores the best options for driveways, entrances, parking and snow removal routes
ATD will coordinate with a Registered Ontario Land Surveyor if necessary. If an existing survey is on file, it is usually not required.
The Minor Variance Process:
ATD will act on behalf of the client throughout the entire minor variance process. ATD completes all required applications, produces all necessary drawings, and represent the clients during any minor variance hearings.
Estimating Building permit fees & Development fees:
As part of the planning phase, ATD can provide the client with an accurate idea of what to expect when it comes to building permits fees, development fees and any other fees associated with their project. This can be a big help when establishing an accurate construction budget.
Contractor recommendations:
Finding the right contractor can be a daunting task, especially for out of town clients new to the area, or seasonal residents. ATD has a select list of trusted contractors, tradesmen and consultants that the firm has worked with directly on past projects.
With the Planning Phase complete, the Design Phase begins. »
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