The Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA) is reminding property owners to apply for permits well ahead of construction schedules to avoid delays. Permits are required for development projects on properties within NVCA regulated areas. 

“Many property owners underestimate the amount of time it takes to prepare the required information for their permit application,” said Ben Krul, Manager of Development Planning and Permits. “Anyone planning a project should check our website to determine if their property is regulated by NVCA. If it is, we highly recommend they setup a pre-consultation meeting with our regulations technicians to determine what the next steps are.”

NVCA is responsible for directing development outside of natural and hazardous areas to protect the public and properties from flooding and erosion. Through the permitting process, NVCA also ensures development does not impact sensitive environmental areas such as wetlands, shorelines, rivers and streams.

To ensure applications are processed in a timely manner, it is important to submit a complete application package. This includes the mandatory minimum requirements and any additional information requested by NVCA. Once a complete application is submitted, it can take up to 90 days for our regulations technicians to determine if a permit is granted. 

Applying for permits well ahead of project start helps avoid costly delays. Property owners can also help ensure the Nottawasaga Watershed remains healthy and sustainable for future generations. Visit NVCA’s website for more information about permits from NVCA.