Call first when considering projects
As provincial COVID-19 restrictions are eased conservation authority reminds people to please remember to call first when considering your summer construction projects
Change to summer-like weather, phased easing of Ontario’s COVID-19 restrictions prompts people to consider work in regulated areas but permits are required
Property owners save time, avoid unnecessary costs by talking to staff first about their plans
The return of warm weather and the provincial phased easing of coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions is encouraging people to think of returning to their shoreline properties and to consider building or upgrades or other development. This is prompting Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) staff to remind the public to first contact your municipality and conservation authority if you are planning to do work that may be in a regulated area such as the shoreline. Permits are required for this work.
ABCA regulations and planning staff ask you to contact them before the work begins. Talking to them during the planning stages can save time and save unnecessary expenses later.
“It really makes a positive difference when residents contact us early on,” said Geoffrey Cade, ABCA Water and Planning Manager. “It helps us to provide information they need about whether their property is in a regulated area and what policies allow and what they don’t.”
Contacting the conservation authority first “saves money and time for the property owner by letting them know if their planned work meets provincial regulations and local policies and whether it can be considered for permit approval.”
In the first phase of provincial reopening, there was an increase in reports of unauthorized work in regulated areas, according to the conservation authority. Staff are working remotely when possible during the current pandemic but they are also visiting areas, observing pandemic protocols, where there are reports of work that has begun without a permit.
You are advised to contact your municipality and Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority, to find out if permits are required, before you consider new works to ensure your plans meet policies.
“A good rule of thumb is the earlier the better,” Geoff said. “Our staff can tell you if or how regulations and policies affect your property,” he said. “In some cases, the staff member may offer advice on how you can amend your plan so it could meet the regulation and policies. Staff can also let you know what documents to submit and if any studies are needed.”
Lake Huron water levels, at or near record highs, have reinforced the need to protect people and property from natural hazards such as flooding and erosion. The conservation authority protects people and property by keeping development out of the areas of highest natural hazards. The ABCA regulates development, interference with wetlands, and alterations to shorelines and watercourses through the Conservation Authorities Act and Ontario Regulation 147/06.
For maps of regulated areas visit this web page:
To find out more visit abca.ca or contact Meghan or Daniel, by email through the staff contacts page, or by phone at 519-235-2610 or toll-free 1-888-286-2610.