Constructing non-habitable accessory buildings or structures (including garages and sheds, decks, and pools) and landscaping may be considered DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITY under the Conservation Authorities Act and Ontario Regulation 41/24.
A permit will be required if the development activity is proposed within a TRCA Regulated Area and does not meet the exception criteria of Ontario Regulation 41/24.
Why You Need to Apply for a Permit
Under the Conservation Authorities Act and Ontario Regulation 41/24, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) regulates and may prohibit development activity from taking place within or near valley and stream corridors, wetlands, and the Lake Ontario shoreline.
If your property is regulated, you must apply for a permit from TRCA prior to carrying out any new development activity.
Please note that the Conservation Authorities Act and Ontario Regulation 41/24 are “applicable law”, i.e. your municipality cannot legally issue a building permit until a TRCA permit or clearance has been obtained.
Submission Requirements
- Lot survey – to include existing development/structures on the property.
Note: Topographical information may be required. Pre-application consultation is recommended to confirm. - Site grading and landscaping plan overlaid on lot survey showing:
- Existing top of slope if the property backs onto the ravine. TRCA will confirm the existing top of slope location, and this line may be adjusted as per a site visit by TRCA staff. A study may be required to locate the stable top of slope.
- Existing and proposed grades (geodetic elevations).
- Proposed location of the non-habitable accessory building, structure or landscaping including dimensions and elevations as appropriate.
- Existing and proposed surface treatments, including driveways, pathways, stairs, patios, retaining walls, pool decking, etc.
- Note stating amount of fill to be added (in cubic meters) if applicable.
- Setback dimension from the top of slope (or stable top of slope where applicable) to the proposed non-habitable accessory building, structure or landscaping (if applicable).
- Location of temporary erosion and sediment control fencing to be installed during construction to prevent construction debris from entering the ravine, or the municipal sewer.
- Elevations:
- Non-habitable accessory building, structure or landscaping elevations.
- Regulatory flood plain elevation (if applicable and already provided to you by TRCA staff).
- Cross-sections:
- Design detail and cross section of any proposed replacement walls.
- Cross section of any proposed grade changes.
Please note: Additional technical information (e.g., geotechnical slope stability assessment, structural engineering letter with stamped drawings) may be required once staff have carried out an initial review and a site visit (if applicable).