Shore projects may need work permits

As summer approaches, Lake Simcoe cottage owners are being reminded shore protection, dredging and certain types of docks and boathouses built on shore lands require work permits from the Ministry of Natural Resources.

Contact the local ministry office for information on whether or not a work permit is needed for your project.

For projects on the Georgina or Thorah shorelines, contact Mark Patterson in Aurora at 905-713-7388.

For projects along the Simcoe County shoreline, contact the Midhurst district office: Brenda Robinson 705-725-7524, or Jeff Haelzle 705-725-7566.

Ministry work permit information is also available at www.mnr.gov.on.ca/mnr/crownland, look under activities on Crown land requiring specific approvals.

Land use occupational authority (e.g. land use permit, lease) may be required for an occupation of Crown land, even if a work permit is not required to build the structure. Builders should check with their local Natural Resources Ministry offices to determine if proposed structures require land use occupational authority.

Proposed structures could have an impact on fish habitat or public navigation.

Work permit applications for projects that can affect fish habitat are referred to the local Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (905-895-1281) or the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans.

If there is concern a project may affect the navigation of a waterway, the navigable waters protection branch of the Canadian Coast Guard should be contacted at 519-383-1865 for more information.