Quick Facts on the Permit Process

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Is there a fee for obtaining a permit?
How is an application processed?
What would lead to an application being denied?
Can a decision of Credit Valley Conservation be appealed?
Are there "minor" works that I don't require a Permit for?
What happens if I do not obtain a permit when one is required?

Is there a fee for obtaining a permit?

Yes. Fees vary depending on the type and scale of a proposal. Details on the fees may be obtained by contacting CVC.

Click here for Fee Schedule.

How is an application processed?

CVC staff review your application and conduct a site inspection of the property. In the event that your proposal does not meet policy, CVC staff will further consult with you in an attempt to bring plans in accordance with all requirements. If the project conforms to policies a staff will issue a permit which is enforced by the CVC Board of Directors at regularly scheduled meetings. In the event that your proposal does not conform to policy, you may request the matter to be referred to the CVC Hearing Committee for a decision. The Board of Directors or the Hearing Committee will either approve, approve with conditions or deny the application. If approved, the permit is issued to the applicant and is typically valid for 2 years from the date of issuance. Permits are also renewable, in accordance with policies in place at the time of any renewal request.

What would lead to an application being denied?

Works that cannot demonstrate conformity to CVC policy may be denied by the Hearing Board. This could involve works that reveal an unacceptable risk to life and property from natural hazards (i.e: flooding), adverse impacts to adjacent lands including unacceptable environmental impacts to natural systems (e.g. wetlands, fisheries habitat, ravine and valley systems, environmentally significant areas).

Can a decision of Credit Valley Conservation be appealed?

Yes. Any applicant who has been refused permission may, within 30 days of receipt of the decision and reasons for refusal, appeal to the Minister of Natural Resources.

Are there "minor" works that I don't require a Permit for?

Yes, Subject to certain conditions, works qualifying for exemption may include decks, sheds, gazebos, swimming pools, garages and other small accessory non-habitable structures, and may also include minor fill placement. Please contact CVC to see if your project is exempt.

What happens if I do not obtain a Permit when one is required?

If you have undertaken unauthorized works in a Floodplain, Regulated Area or a Watercourse, you may be charged under Section 28 of the Conservation Authorities Act (R.S.O. 1990 c.27) subjecting you to prosecution in the Provincial Courts. It is very important to ensure that any works undertaken in CVC Areas of Interest are done so in accordance with Regulations and Policies.

If you are unsure whether or not your property falls within a CVC Area of Interest, or whether your proposal requires a CVC permit, you are encouraged to contact our office for information and guidance.

Phone: (905) 670-1615 or 1-800-668-5557
E-mail: cvc@creditvalleycons.com