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Plan Review Applications

Conservation authorities are the primary local agency to review and comment on development proposals pursuant to the Planning Act and the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) mandate to effectively manage the watershed's natural resources and to protect life and property.

One of the most effective ways to avoid damage to property and ensure personal safety during a flooding event is by taking preventive measures.

Before undertaking any filling, construction or altering of watercourses, contact Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority or your municipality to determine if you are in a regulated area. If applicable, ABCA staff will guide applicants through a permit process that involves gathering on-site information, survey work, and providing specific conditions to reduce risk to life and property, reduce potential social disruption and protect the environment from naturally occurring flooding and erosion.

Phone 519-235-2610 or toll-free 1-888-286-2610.

Ontario Regulation (O. Reg.) 41/24: Prohibited Activities, Exemptions and Permits, under Conservation Authorities Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. C.27, came into effect on April 1, 2024.

For information on the regulation click this link:

For information on environmental planning and permits visit:

Environmental planning includes comments on significant natural areas, flood plain lands, steep slopes, erosion rates, and faulty septic systems (in portions of Middlesex County only), the need for stormwater control, buffer strips, and wildlife corridors linking existing natural areas.

Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority staff provide comments applicants and appropriate agencies for such things as plans of subdivision; severances; official plans; zoning bylaws; municipal drainage reports; and environmental assessments.

For permit fee information click this link: