Should Ontario Merge Its 36 Conservation Authorities Into 7 Regional Bodies?

Official title: Proposed boundaries for the regional consolidation of Ontario’s conservation authorities

Open Policy & Studies Environment & Climate Housing & Communities

Ontario wants to merge its 36 conservation authorities into 7 regional bodies. Why? The government says the current system is fragmented—each authority has different policies, fees, and approval times. That creates delays for builders and homeowners seeking permits. The proposed regional authorities would still manage flood risks and issue permits, but with more consistency across the province.

Why This Matters

Building a home near a floodplain? These are the folks who approve your permit. Right now, wait times vary wildly depending on which of the 36 authorities handles your area. The merger could speed things up—or it could mean dealing with a bigger, more distant bureaucracy. If you use conservation authority trails or programs, your local office might merge or relocate.

What Could Change

Ontario's 36 conservation authorities would become 7 regional bodies. A new provincial agency would oversee them all. Permit processes could become more standardized—same fees, same timelines across regions. Local offices may merge, but the government says frontline services like flood warnings and trail access would continue.

Key Issues

What factors are needed for a successful transition to regional conservation authorities?
How should governance be structured at the regional level, including board size and municipal representation?
How can regional authorities maintain transparent budgeting across member municipalities?
How can regional authorities maintain relationships with local communities and stakeholders?

How to Participate

Review the Supplemental Document for maps of the proposed boundaries and details on each regional authority.
Use the interactive map to see which regional authority would cover your area.
Submit your feedback through this consultation page or email ca.office@ontario.ca by the deadline.

Submit Your Input

Comment On Proposed Boundaries Draft Email

Email Template

Dear Conservation Authority Office,

I am writing regarding ERO 025-1257 - Proposed boundaries for the regional consolidation of Ontario's conservation authorities.

I [support / oppose / have concerns about] this proposal because:
[Your reason - even one sentence counts]

How this affects me:
[Your connection to conservation authorities - permit applicant, trail user, nearby resident, etc.]

On the proposed boundaries:
[Your thoughts on whether the 7 regional boundaries make sense for your area]

On governance structure:
[Your suggestions for board size, municipal representation, or accountability]

On maintaining local relationships:
[Your ideas for how regional authorities can stay connected to communities]

Thank you for considering my feedback.

Sincerely,
[Your name]

Questions Being Asked (5)

What do you see as key factors to support a successful transition and outcome of regional conservation authority consolidation?
What opportunities or benefits may come from a regional conservation authority framework?
Do you have suggestions for how governance could be structured at the regional conservation authority level, including suggestions around board size, make-up and the municipal representative appointment process?
Do you have suggestions on how to maintain a transparent and consultative budgeting process across member municipalities within a regional conservation authority?
How can regional conservation authorities maintain and strengthen relationships with local communities and stakeholders?