Environmental permits come in many forms and can be required at the municipal, provincial, or federal level. They help ensure that any activities with potential environmental impacts—like construction, water usage, or waste disposal—meet the necessary guidelines for protecting public health and ecosystems. Below are some of the most common types of permits and approvals:
Contaminated Site Approvals
Projects involving known or suspected soil and groundwater contamination often need permissions under local or provincial regulations, such as the Environmental Management Act or Contaminated Sites Regulation. Examples include Site Disclosure Statements, Certificates of Compliance, Approvals in Principle, and Waste Discharge Authorizations. These approvals certify that contamination has been investigated or addressed in a manner that aligns with government standards.
Water Use and Management Authorizations
Securing and managing groundwater or surface water rights often requires formal approvals under legislation like the Water Sustainability Act. A few examples include Water Well Licenses, Short-Term Use Approvals, and Changes In and About a Stream. These permits help regulate water extraction rates, safeguard aquatic habitats, and ensure downstream users aren’t negatively affected.
Soil and Sediment Relocation Permits
Whether you’re relocating a small amount of soil for a construction project or moving large volumes of sediment off-site, you may need a soil relocation permit or notification. Provinces often have specific regulations to ensure that soil testing and classification are done properly so only suitable materials reach certain disposal or reuse facilities. In some coastal regions, Disposal at Sea Permits may also apply for clean, native inorganic materials, helping to avoid overloading inland landfills.
Wildlife and Habitat Regulations
Activities that intersect with sensitive habitats, protected areas, or migrating species generally require special approvals or work windows. Examples include following the Migratory Birds Convention Act to avoid disturbing active bird nests or adhering to set-back distances for watercourses under the Riparian Areas Protection Regulation. Mitigation or restoration plans might also be a requirement of such permits.
Local Bylaws and Special Development Permits
Municipalities often have additional layers of permitting to address local priorities, such as soil removal and placement bylaws, stormwater discharge regulations, and riparian setback requirements. These bylaws can vary greatly between regions but play a crucial role in minimizing local environmental impacts and ensuring thoughtful land use.
Navigating these different types of environmental permits can be a challenge, but proactive planning and expert guidance help streamline the process. By identifying relevant approvals at the outset, collecting the right data, and communicating effectively with regulatory agencies, you can keep your project on track and help safeguard the environment for future generations.