Planning & Regulations
The administration of the Regulations and Plan Input and Review are two complimentary, however distinct functions whereas:
The “principle of development” is established through the Planning Act approval processes, whereas the Conservation Authorities Act permitting process, similar to the Building Permit process, identifies the specific site requirements prior to activities taking place.
While most municipalities look toward worthwhile development, it is important that new houses and businesses are located safely out of the floodplain. It is also important that one person’s development does not endanger a neighbour up or downstream. The Authority has staff who specialize in environmental planning including issues such as floodplain development, slope stability, and natural area protection. To help prevent future risk and to protect the interests and liability of our member municipalities, the Authority enforces floodplain regulations throughout the region. In most cases, the Authority is able to work with the applicant to ensure the proposed development is safe.
In addition, the Authority provides comments on municipal planning matters such as zoning and official plan amendments, consents, official plans, plans of subdivision related to development in or near the floodplains, steep slopes, and natural areas. These comments assist the municipality in meeting its obligation to adhere to related provincial policies.