Shoreline Regulations

Homeowners along the lakeshore have provincial regulations to consider when building or renovating. In 2006, the Provincial Government passed Ontario Regulation 164/06 (Development, Interference with Wetlands and Alterations to Shorelines and Watercourses Regulation) that could impact on cottage and homeowners who live near a lake, river or wetland and want to renovate or build. Conservation Authorities were given the responsibility for enforcing this regulation.

Ontario Regulation 164/06 prevents or restricts development in areas where the control of flooding, erosion, dynamic beaches, pollution or the conservation of land may be affected by development. This regulation assists Conservation Authorities to fulfill their mandate to prevent the loss of life and property due to flooding and erosion, and to conserve and enhance natural resources. The regulation applies to the Lake Huron shoreline including bluffs, gullies and beaches.

If a landowner is planning to do any work near the shoreline they may require a permit from their local Conservation Authority. A building permit does not replace a Conservation Authority permit. Regulated activities along the shoreline include:

Before undertaking any projects along the shoreline please email Shannon Millar, Planning and Regulations Assistant, at planningassistant@mvca.on.ca or call 519-335-3557 ext. 240.