Planning & Permits

Development Review

The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority is responsible for the review of planning applications (eg. subdivisions, severances, zoning by-law amendments, minor variances) affected by natural environmental hazards and/or natural heritage features, and provide advice to municipalities or applicants on environmental impacts (regarding valleys, floodplains, wetlands, stormwater management, erosion, etc.).

If you are planning a development project, visit the Development Review Information & Permits page to learn more about the review process and it’s requirements. To make inquiry about a property under the Regulation of Development, Interference with Wetlands and Alterations to Shorelines and Watercourses, you can fill out and submit the Property Information Request Form.

Good Forestry Practices

The NPCA is responsible for the administering and enforcement of the Regional Municipality of Niagara Tree and Forest Conservation By-law No. 30-2008 to ensure that tree cutting is carried out in accordance with Good Forestry Practices. The by-law was introduced to conserve and improve woodlands in Niagara. It regulates the destruction of trees in woodlands by cutting, burning or other means, and prohibits the clearing of woodlands except under specific circumstances. The selective removal of individuals trees is provided for and there are some exemptions, but generally a permit will be required. If you are planning any tree cutting, fill out the Good Forestry Practices Application.

For more information about the health and conservation of Niagara’s woodlots, including information on the threat from the Emerald Ash Borer, visit the Good Forestry Practices page.

Grant & Cost Sharing Programs

The NPCA works together with citizens within it’s jurisdiction to encourage actions and practices that will help to protect and improve our water quality and wildlife habitiat.

The Water Well Decommisioning Grant Program provides funds to cover up to 90% of the cost of decommisioning an abandoned water well.

The Watershed Restoration Cost-Sharing Program offers landowners financial incentives to implement water quality and habitat improvement projects on their properties. In addition to providing financial assistance to landowners, NPCA staff will conduct one-on-one site visits providing technical advice about environmental concerns and assisting landowners with hands-on water quality and habitat improvement projects.

Hunting & Trapping Permits

The NPCA offers hunting, trapping and fishing opportunities at a number of its conservation areas. All provincial regulations, seasonal restrictions, and conservation area rules must be followed, and a permit is required from the NPCA for hunting and trapping. Visit the Hunters & Anglers page for details and applications.