In Ontario, which rules would most likely apply to a private residential development proposed on land next to a provincially significant wetland?
Correct Answer
D) Natural heritage policies and conservation authority permits
Private development near a wetland is handled mainly through the planning system and conservation authority regulation. The Provincial Planning Statement, 2024 prohibits development in significant wetlands in Ecoregions 5E, 6E and 7E and requires the ecological function of adjacent lands to be evaluated (policies 4.1.4 and 4.1.8), and s. 28 of the Conservation Authorities Act requires a permit for development in regulated areas, including wetlands. Ontario's Environmental Assessment Act applies to public-sector undertakings and designated projects, not ordinary private housing.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
This is correct because the rules that actually control a private development next to a provincially significant wetland are the natural heritage policies of the Provincial Planning Statement (as carried into official plans) and the permit requirements of the local conservation authority under s. 28 of the Conservation Authorities Act.
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