Part VI of the Conservation Authorities Act prohibits development activities within and adjacent to watercourses, hazardous lands, and wetlands. You may require a permit from the RRCA if your project is:

• within the channel of a watercourse or drain, in a lake, pond or a wetland
• within 15 m of a floodplain, slope and meander hazard
• within 30 m of a wetland

How to determine if your development activity requires a permit

To help you identify whether your development project requires a permit, we have prepared regulatory mapping. This mapping is updated from time to time, but it may still require site verification.

Our permitting staff are available to meet with you in person, at our office, to review the mapping and assist with any questions. To schedule an appointment, please contact us at permits@rrca.on.ca.

Additionally, online mapping is available to help you determine whether your location is within regulated areas. You can access the online portal here.

Do you require a formal report?

A Property Inquiry is a formal report that can be provided on request from individuals seeking information pertaining to a specific property or area. This report is often requested by lawyers, realtors, or property buyers exercising due diligence. A property inquiry is also useful for current landowners or developers wishing to learn more about their property. You can learn more about property inquiries here.