Project Status: Active

Posted: September 12, 2022

The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority, in collaboration with the City of Ottawa, has recently embarked on a hazard mapping update  for the realigned Van Gaal Drain in the Village of Richmond. This mapping identifies changes to flood prone areas and where new development is to be allowed, restricted or prohibited in accordance with provincial and municipal planning policies.

These maps have been traditionally known as “floodplain mapping” or “regulation mapping” and they show areas that are prone to natural hazards such as flooding, erosion and natural environment features such as wetlands. 

Mapping and regulating natural hazard areas ensure safe and sustainable development. Development projects within these areas must obtain permission from the Conservation Authority before proceeding (Ontario Regulation 174/06, Development, Interference with Wetlands and Alteration to Shorelines and Watercourses). When completed, the mapping will also be used by the City of Ottawa when updating their Official Plan and Zoning Schedules and in the review of development applications under the Planning Act. 

The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) invites you to participate in the public consultation process regarding this mapping update from September 12 to October 14, 2022.

You can participate by viewing draft maps online (see links below) and by contacting an RVCA Resource Specialist (phone 613-692-3571, toll-free at 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1132 or 1193, email . You can also join us at our public open house. 

Van Gaal Drain Hazard Land and Regulations Mapping Open House
Richmond Memorial Community Centre (Seniors’ Room)
6095 Perth Street, Richmond
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
4:30 to 8 p.m.

This consultation period and open house offer the opportunity for RVCA staff to respond to any questions that you may have regarding the mapping and collect your input about local conditions.