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Restrictions

Shore lands development have restrictions for safety and maintenance. Use must not contribute to erosion, riverbank failure, settling, gullying, or interfere with the riverbank protection (rip-rap) program.

Riparian zones (shorelines) cannot be developed over 30% of the area. When over 30%, we encourage restoration to preserve environmental, fish and wildlife habitats.

Public Reserves areas are provided for use of all residents in most subdivisions. We only permit development in these areas by a recognized Cottage Owners Association.

Structures and landscaping

Beaches

  • Sand beaches are contained and located above normal high water level.
  • Existing rip-rap (rock placed on shoreline) cannot be moved or removed.
  • Wooden steps may be built over existing rip-rap for pedestrian access to water.
  • Fisheries and Oceans Canada must approve
    • pea gravel used in water;
    • cobbles placed over the existing rip-rap for pedestrian access to water.
    View Fisheries and Oceans Canada website: Measures to protect fish and fish habitat.

Boat houses

  • Single storey.
  • Peaked roof 4/12 pitch.
  • Flat-top boat houses are not allowed.
  • Non-habitable structure maximum width 7.3 metres.
  • Size restrictions vary, depending on development.

Boat docks

  • Removable structure only.
  • Size restrictions vary, depending on development (but usually less than 10 metres).
  • A concrete pad to anchor dock to the shore may be permitted (above high water level) if no other alternative is practical.

Decks

  • Railing required as per building codes.
  • Not permitted higher than 1.2 metres above normal water level if located by water.
  • May not overhang water more than 0.9 metres from shoreline.

Gazebos and sunrooms

  • Non-habitable and moveable structure only.
  • Distance to water varies, depending on development.

Landscaping

  • A detailed plan should be submitted describing vegetation and material to be removed.

Waterlines

  • Above ground and underground waterlines are permitted, but require the necessary approval.
  • Directional drilling preferred (no alterations to bank).

Wells

  • Minimum setback 6 metres from water’s edge.

For more information on Canada’s shorelines visit: