Scoped Agricultural Policy Review and Update

Under the Conservation Authorities Act and Ontario Regulation 41/24, the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) regulates development activities in natural hazards, including the riverine flooding hazard (commonly referred to as the floodplain). Before you start work in areas regulated by the GRCA, a permit may be required. 

A scoped review of the policies used to make decisions on permit applications for farm buildings located in the floodplain is underway as outlined in a report titled "Scoped Agricultural Policy Review of the Administration on Ontario Regulation 41/24". The review will result in changes to our policy document called “Policies for the Administration of Prohibited Activities, Exemptions and Permits under Ontario Regulation 41/24”.

We are currently seeking feedback on the proposed changes.

What's Changing?

We've written new draft policies that:

• Continue to allow small farm buildings and additions associated with existing uses, but increase the maximum size permitted to 600 square metres (about 6,500 square feet) instead of the current 100 square metres (1076 square feet) limit.
• Use clearer terms like " farm buildings or structures" with a definition.
• Ask for technical studies if needed to make sure new farm buildings won't increase flooding risks.

These changes aim to modernize our policy approach to reflect current agricultural operations while continuing to manage flood risks.

How You Can Participate:

• Read about the proposed changes and background materials. Please see Table 4 of the document on page 20 for a comparison of existing and proposed policies.
• Send us your feedback by August 15: 
  • Online Form: Scoped Agricultural Policy Review Feedback Form
  • Mail: 400 Clyde Road, PO Box 729
    Cambridge, ON N1R 5W6
    Attention: Beth Brown

We value your input and encourage you to share your perspectives to help shape policies that support both agricultural needs and floodplain safety.

If you have questions or need help accessing the materials, please contact Beth Brown at 519-621-2763 extension 2307 (bbrown@grandriver.ca) or Melissa Larion at extension 2247 (mlarion@grandriver.ca)