Effective April 1, 2024, changes to the Conservation Act come into effect. There are changes relevant to Port Albert cottagers and residents in terms of permitting with MVCA.
Reduced Authority Powers:
- Conservation authorities can no longer create regulations for lands they don’t own. This power is now with the Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry.
Permitting Changes:
- The range of activities requiring permits from conservation authorities is reduced. Permits are now only required for activities that interfere with watercourses or develop hazardous lands, wetlands, and areas prone to flooding or erosion.
New Exceptions:
- Certain low-risk activities, like small docks and fences, are exempt from requiring permits under specific conditions. Some development activities authorized under the Planning Act are also exempt from requiring a permit.
Defined Conditions and Mapping Requirements:
- Conditions that authorities can attach to permits are now clearly defined, focusing on flood control and safety. Authorities must also create and regularly update maps of their jurisdiction, available on their websites.
Minister’s Increased Power:
- The Minister can now prevent authorities from issuing permits for specific activities and modify permit conditions to improve water management or require regular reporting.
Reduced Restricted Areas:
- The restricted area around wetlands has been reduced from 120 meters to 30 meters.
Appeal Process:
- Applicants can request a review if the authority doesn’t acknowledge a complete permit application within 21 days. If the authority doesn’t decide within 30 days, applicants can appeal to the Ontario Land Tribunal.
Map and Fee Reconsideration:
- Authorities must create and update jurisdiction maps annually. Applicants can appeal permit application fees directly to the Ontario Land Tribunal if there’s no decision within the stipulated time.
Read more about the changes: