Regulations & Planning (30)
RVCA staff will review the application and discuss it with the applicant. Staff may suggest changes in the plan so it will comply with environmental rules and regulations. At the end of the review, recommendations will be sent to the municipality for its consideration in its decision.
If you are planning to do any work near a lake, river, stream, floodplain, steep slope or wetland, you may require approval from the RVCA.
The following projects require RVCA review and approval:
- the construction, reconstruction, erection or placing of a building or structure of any kind,
- changes that would alter the use or potential use of a building or structure
- increasing the size of the building or structure or increasing the number of dwelling units in the building or structure,
- site grading,
- the temporary or permanent placing, dumping or removal of any material, originating in the site or elsewhere,
- the straightening, changing or diverting or interfering with an existing channel of a river, creek, stream or watercourse, or changing or interfering with a wetland.
- All shorelines and watercourses, regardless of whether or not they appear on mapping, are subject to the alteration to waterways component of Ontario Regulation 174/06.
Note: As of April 1, 2024, Ontario Regulation 41/24: Prohibited Activities, Exemptions and Permits will replace the RVCA's existing Ontario Regulation 174/06 under Section 28 of the Conservation Authorities Act. Moving forward, O. Reg. 41/24 will be used by all Conservation Authorities.
If you are not within an identified floodplain, wetland, adjacent to a steep slope or working on the waterfront, then a permit may not be required from the RVCA. You should still contact your municipality to ensure your project meets municipal requirements. Please contact us for information.
Background:
On April 1, 2024, the Government of Ontario replaced individual Conservation Authority Regulations under Section 28 of the Conservation Authorities Act, with Ontario Regulation 41/24: Prohibited Activities, Exemptions and Permits. The goal of this legislative change was to streamline approvals and establish a standardized approach to the regulation of natural hazards, wetlands, watercourses and shorelines across Ontario.
The RVCA has updated its development policies to comply with the new regulation and be more user-friendly by:
- Improving transparency of the permit process.
- Consolidating all applicable policies into one document.
- Maintaining a consistent standard for review and thresholds for approvals.
- Enhancing the functionality of the document as a reference tool and technical guide.
- Increasing responsiveness of the document by annual updating to address emerging trends, legislative changes, and innovations in natural hazard protection.
The RVCA’s Draft Development Activity Policies and Procedures: Policies and Procedures for Development Activity permit applications made under Section 28.1 of the Conservation Authorities Act is now available for public consultation.
Summary of Changes
Summary of changes:
Below is a summary table highlighting where new policies have been added, existing policies have been modified, and where policies have been removed. This list is not exhaustive but captures substantive changes.
|
Topic |
Existing Policies |
New Policies |
Effect |
|
Watercourse Setbacks |
Requires 30 metres from any watercourse |
Removed |
Policies are focused on natural hazard mandate. |
|
Pollution and Conservation of Land |
Required pollution and/or conservation of land to be considered as part of permit review. |
Removed |
Pollution and conservation of land were removed from the Act. |
|
Ecological Function |
Was a policy consideration. |
Removed |
Policies are focused on natural hazard mandate. |
|
Additions to Existing Dwellings |
Allows 20% up to 20m2, or 50% up to 50m2 subject to site and design criteria. |
Allows 20m2 or 50m2 based on safe access availability. |
Simplifies standard, slightly more permissive, particularly for existing small dwellings. |
|
Roofline Overhangs |
Allows 10% overhang, typically only allowed for eavestroughs and doorway awnings. |
Allows up to cumulative total of 20m2. |
Will allow for small unenclosed covered decks or carports. |
|
Safe Access |
Allows maximum 0.3 m depth. |
Allows safe access based on depth and velocity. |
More permissive. Expected to provide more flexibility within the upper watershed. |
|
Areas of Reduced Flood Risk |
Allowed for increased development within specific built-up areas within the City of Ottawa where flood protection works were present |
Changed name to Area Specific Flooding Hazard Policies and consolidated with other sections. Removed Kingsview Park as applicable area in line with City of Ottawa changes. |
Policies ultimately are more aligned with direction related to natural hazards. Removed language contingent on municipal planning. |
|
Placement of Fill |
Allowed for minor placement of fill and balanced cut and fill |
Limits minor placement of fill to 15 m3. Refines balanced cut and fill policies by establishing technical guidelines. Expands fill placement to support private sewage systems and floodproofing |
Policies generally more permissive, however, improves clarity related to current implementation. |
|
Meander Belts |
No previous policies |
New Erosion Hazard Policies for Meander Belts for Unconfined Valley Systems. |
Modernizes policies to include natural hazard type included in Act |
|
Dynamic Beaches |
No previous policies |
Added policies that will properly apply based on the type of regulated hazards for Petrie Island. |
Modernizes policies to include natural hazard type included in Act |
|
Shoreline Protection |
Policies were specific to riverfront shorelines |
Policies expanded to clarify current implementation, specifically related to beaches, hardscaping. Language expanded to include lake shorelines. |
Policies generally the same with how permits have been conducted |
|
Sensitive Marine Clay |
No previous policies |
Added policies to require hazard to be assessed. |
Policies generally promote protecting hazard, will be subject to technical guidance under development. |
|
Bedrock Hazards |
No previous polices |
Added policies related to bedrock hazards, specifically karst formations |
Modernizes policies to include natural hazard type included in Act |
|
Watercourse interference |
Was based primarily Hydrotechnical analysis |
Policies expanded to include agricultural enclosures, and design requirements for crossings, channelization, realignment, dredging |
Slightly more permissive, and provides additional clarity on activity specific requirements |
|
Boat Houses, Boat Ports and Docks |
Not permitted on river systems |
Allows boat houses with restrictions to limit potential risks. |
More permissive, aligns with municipal and federal partners. |
|
Swimming Pools |
All pools directed 30 meters back from watercourses Limited location in floodplains |
Above ground pools shall be restricted from floodplains and erosion hazards. In-ground pools allowed subject to appropriate design. Setbacks removed. |
Policies generally more permissive and focuses on natural hazard. |
|
Wetlands |
Only Provincially Significant Wetlands (PSWs) and those in municipal Official Plans / zoning regulated Allowed development between 30 and 120 metres Further limited within 30 meters. |
Public Consultation
We encourage everyone to review RVCA’s updated development policies during the consultation period ending July 10. We also invite you to connect with RVCA staff to learn more about the policies and what it may mean for you and your property. You can do so by:
- Viewing draft policies
For more details, contact us:
- 2023 Fee Schedule
- 2024 Fee Schedule - effective January 1, 2024 (30-day notice)
Looking to understand some basics about a property?
Option 1 — Map A Property
Visit our online mapping tool to search your property and explore the regulated areas in our watershed.
Option 2 — General Property Inquiry
Complete our General Property Inquiry Form to receive a map showing the mapped natural hazard (floodplain, unstable slope, wetland) or natural feature, 1:100 year flood elevations if applicable and available, links to general information, regulators and policies. Please allow for 48 to 72 hour response time for General Property Inquiries. More complex requests may take longer.
If you require formal written response to legal, real estate and related financial inquiries or require a review of historical files for specific project/proposals or technical review, please learn about our Property File Search Service.
If your application has been refused or approved with conditions, you can appeal through a the RVCA's Hearing Board.
For guidance, downoad the RVCA Hearing Procedures.
Our work in regulating lands has several major components.
1. Regulation Permits
We ensure that development proposals have regard for natural hazard features and the natural environment while conforming with our watershed development policies. We are authorized under Section 28 of the Conservation Authorities Act. Learn more >>
2. Municipal Plan Review
We are responsible for representing the provincial interests with respect to natural hazards (examples include flooding, erosion and unstable ground) and natural features on applications circulated under the Planning Act. We are responsible for providing advice on the interpretation of the Provincial Policy Statement. We also have agreements with the City of Ottawa and Counties in the watershed to provide comments on natural heritage features, which include significant woodlands, wetlands, environmentally sensitive areas, fish habitat, as well as rare, threatened and endangered species and their habitats. Learn more >>
3. Board Approved Development Policies
The goal is to foster and consistently apply the development policies and guidelines that protect the environmental integrity of our watershed. Recognizing that development and changes occur within some limits and is ultimately limited by the capacity of the watershed environment is key.
4. Septic System Approvals and Re-inspections
We provide septic system approvals and re-inspection program in interested municipalities. Our role is to ensure septic systems are built property for the benefit of the homeowner and the environment. We enforce the rules and regulations defined by the Ontario Building Code. Learn more >> Ottawa Septic System Office
Learn more >> Mississippi Valley Septic System Office
5. Technical Assistance
RVCA engineering and technical staff may also provide comments on water management and natural hazard aspects of planning and regulatory applications depending on the complexity of the application.
They are also involved in preparing subwatershed reports, remedial strategies and stormwater management strategies and the design of capital work projects and major floodplain engineering studies.
Key areas of expertise include: hydraulics and hydrology, plan input and review, environmental regulations, data collection and computer modeling, remediation and restoration techniques for the natural environment, project design, tendering and supervision.
6. Stewardship
Our stewardship programs provide technical and financial assistance to support private landowners who undertake environmental projects that are designed to improve surface and groundwater quality, reduce soil erosion, enhance wildlife and more. Learn more >>
7. Flood Forecasting and Flood Control
RVCA is responsible for issuing flood warnings to help reduce flood damages. We do this by monitoring weather conditions and river flows issuing flood messages (advisories and warnings) to a variety of public service agencies through the media and this website controlling development in flood-prone areas to reduce potential property damages. Learn more >>
When reporting a failing system or other occurrences please contact your local conservation authority. You will need to provide the following information upon calling our office for the property in question:
- Name of Property Owner
- Civic Address (Ex. 3889 Rideau Valley Dr.)
- Municipality
- Complaint (e.g., I can see sewage pooling on my neighbors’ septic bed)
- Are you a neighbour, councillor, or installer? From the Health Unit, By-Law Office or Building Inspector?
Please note all reports are kept confidential
If you would like to receive a response from us ensure you leave contact information otherwise we will treat this as an anonymous report.
More...
How to submit digital paperwork:
- Access all forms and fee information by clicking here.
- Be sure that the application is in PDF format (including photos).
- Consider using apps such as Turbo Scan that convert jpeg photos into PDF documents.
- Upgrading software on office desktop to Adobe Pro to be able to edit PDF documents.
2. Electronic files that accompany the email request/instruction must be applied as an ATTACHMENT.
3. Email your application to the intake email address identified by your municipality listed here.
4. Watch for payment details. Directions on how to make payment will be sent to your inbox. Please note, payments must be received to activate the permitting process.
To make a Section 28 application:
- Contact the RVCA while you are in the early stages of planning your project. It will save you time and keep your schedule on track. Your first step is to determine if you require Conservation Authority approval. E-mail us at or speak to an RVCA Resource Specialist at 613-692-3571 || 1-800-267-3504 (extension 1193 or 1132). They will confirm that you need a permit and provide you with the preliminary information you will require to submit an application.
- Download and complete the RVCA Application for Development (includes Minimum Application Requirements). You may also contact a Resource Specialist for a paper copy or visit our office to pick up a copy.
- Refer to the Application Fee Schedule to determine the category of works and the application type. Forward your permit application form and other required information including plans drawn to scale, a survey, elevation information, etc. Please see the RVCA's Application for Development for a complete checklist. The application fee is paid at the time of filing the application with the RVCA.
Click here for a full list of forms, fees and resources.
Note: as of April 1, 2024, Ontario Regulation 41/24: Prohibited Activities, Exemptions and Permits will replace the RVCA's existing Ontario Regulation 174/06 under Section 28 of the Conservation Authorities Act. Our online mapping tool has been updated to reflect the new regulation.
Need more help?
Complete and submit our General Property Inquiry Form to receive a map showing the mapped hazard (floodplain, unstable slope, wetland) or natural feature, 1:100 year flood elevations if applicable and available, links to general information, regulators and policies. Please allow for 24 hour response time for General Property Inquiries.
If you require formal written response to legal, real estate and related financial inquiries or require a review of historical files for specific project/proposals or technical review, you must request a Property File Search.
The Conservation Authorities Act enables Conservation Authorities to undertake programs to further the conservation, restoration, development and management of natural resources throughout the watershed. A significant component of this work is the protection of public health and safety and minimizing property damage from risk associated with natural hazards.
Conservation Ontario, on behalf of Ontario’s 36 Conservation Authorities, has a memorandum of understanding with the Ministries of Natural Resources and Forestry and Municipal Affairs and Housing whereby Conservation Authorities have delegated responsibilities for the management of natural hazards (floodplains, hazardous slopes, unstable soils and erosion). In keeping with this responsibility, RVCA provides comments to our municipalities on Planning Act applications and other development related applications from several perspectives; watershed based resource management, planning advisory service, technical advisory service and regulatory responsibilities. RVCA provides planning and technical advice to assist our municipalities in fulfilling their responsibilities as defined in their official plans and the Provincial Policy Statement with respect to water resources, natural hazards and, where requested to do so, natural heritage features. We also assist our municipalities and landowners with the coordination of planning and regulatory requirements under the “Development, Interference with Wetlands and Alterations to Shorelines and Watercourses Regulation (O.Reg 41/24).
Planning applications circulated to the RVCA typically include:
- Official plans and official plan amendments
- Zoning by-laws and zoning by-law amendments
- Plans of subdivision and condominium
- Site plan control
- Applications for consent (severances and lot line adjustments)
- Minor variances
- Lifting of reserves
- Part lot control
Development related reviews undertaken by the RVCA also includes proposals under the:
- Environmental Assessment Act and equivalent process under the Planning Act
- Aggregate Resources Act
- Ontario Water Resources Act
The planning services RVCA provides are defined in memorandums of agreement with the City of Ottawa and our upper tier counties (County of Lanark, United Counties of Leeds and Grenville). The agreements are joint agreements between RVCA, the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority, South Nation Conservation Authority and the Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority where a municipality’s boundary includes more than one Conservation Authority’s watershed. There have been changes to related legislation and other memorandums with senior levels of government since these agreements were formalized and some sections are no longer applicable. In particular, memorandums of agreement between the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and RVCA are no longer in place.
Memorandums of agreement:
