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 it'll speed up permits and cut costs. Right now, each authority has different rules, fees, and wait times—frustrating for builders and homeowners alike. The new regional authorities would still manage flood risks and issue permits, but under a new provincial agency's oversight.

Why This Matters

Building a home or adding a deck near a stream? You need a conservation authority permit. Right now, wait times vary wildly depending on where you live. This merger could mean faster, more predictable approvals. But if you value local decision-making, you might worry about losing your community's voice in how nearby wetlands and floodplains are managed.

What Could Change

Ontario's 36 conservation authorities would become 7 regional bodies. A new provincial agency would oversee them all. Permit processes would be standardized across regions—same rules, same fees, same timelines. Local offices may merge or relocate. Municipal representation on boards could change significantly.

Key Issues

  • Are the proposed boundaries for the 7 regional conservation authorities appropriate?
  • How should governance be structured at the regional level, including board size and municipal representation?
  • How can regional authorities maintain relationships with local communities during and after consolidation?
  • How should budgeting processes work across multiple member municipalities?

How to Participate

  1. Review the Supplemental Document with 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.

Submit Your Input

Comment On The ERO Notice Draft Email
Questions Being Asked (5)
  1. What do you see as key factors to support a successful transition and outcome of regional conservation authority consolidation?
  2. What opportunities or benefits may come from a regional conservation authority framework?
  3. 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?
  4. Do you have suggestions on how to maintain a transparent and consultative budgeting process across member municipalities within a regional conservation authority?
  5. How can regional conservation authorities maintain and strengthen relationships with local communities and stakeholders?

Key Documents