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

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

Closed Policy & Studies Environment & Climate Housing & Communities
Ontario wants to merge its 36 conservation authorities into 7 regional bodies. Why? The government says it'll speed up building permits and cut red tape. Right now, each authority has different rules, fees, and wait times. The new regional authorities would still manage flood risks and protect watersheds—but with more consistent standards across the province.

Why This Matters

Building a home or adding to your property? Conservation authorities approve permits for anything near floodplains, wetlands, or shorelines. Right now, wait times vary wildly depending on where you live. This merger could mean faster approvals—or it could mean your local office gets absorbed into a distant regional hub. If you care about flood protection in your community, this is your chance to weigh in.

What Could Change

Ontario's 36 conservation authorities would become 7 regional bodies, overseen by a new provincial agency. Permit processes would be standardized across regions. Local offices may merge or relocate. The government says this will free up resources for front-line flood protection—but local governance structures will change significantly.

Key Issues

  • What factors are key to 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

  1. Review the Supplemental Document for maps of the proposed boundaries and details on each regional authority.
  2. Use the interactive map to see which regional conservation authority your address would belong to.
  3. Submit your comments through this consultation page or email ca.office@ontario.ca by the deadline. Include ERO number 025-1257 in your submission.

Key Documents