May 13, 2025 SVCA Ensures Timely, Expert Guidance for Sustainable Development

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – May 13th, 2025

Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority SVCA Ensures Timely, Expert Guidance for Sustainable Development

ALL SAUGEEN WATERSHED MUNICIPALITIES – Municipality of Arran-Elderslie, Municipality of Brockton, Township of
Chatsworth, Municipality of Grey Highlands, Town of Hanover, Township of Howick, Municipality of Morris-Turnberry, Municipality of South Bruce, Township of Huron-Kinloss, Municipality of Kincardine, Town of Minto, Township of Wellington-North, Town of Saugeen Shores, Township of Southgate, Municipality of West Grey.

Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA) is proud to announce its continued commitment to supporting property owners and developers with expert guidance on projects and property purchases in areas potentially affected by flooding, erosion, or sensitive natural features.

Each year, SVCA receives over 1,000 inquiries regarding proposed projects and property purchases that may be
impacted by environmental hazards, such as flooding or erosion, or that could interfere with watercourses or wetlands. Through site visits, mapping reviews, and, when necessary, technical assessments, SVCA works with applicants to ensure their projects can proceed safely and in compliance with environmental regulations.

Between April 1 and December 31, 2024, SVCA issued 234 permits. The majority of these were classified as Minor
permits, indicating that the projects were not highly complex and did not require extensive technical reporting. SVCA
staff demonstrated exceptional efficiency in permit processing, achieving:

• 98% compliance in notifying applicants of application completeness within the legislated 21-day timeline.
• 100% compliance in meeting legislated permit issuance timelines—30 days for Minor permits and 90 days for Major permits.
• An average permit issuance time of just 3.69 calendar days after receiving all required information.

"We are proud of our team's commitment to providing timely, accurate guidance for property owners and
developers. These results highlight our dedication to protecting people and property from natural hazards while
supporting sustainable development across the Saugeen watershed."
- Matt Armstrong, Manager of Environmental Planning and Regulations, SVCA

SVCA remains dedicated to providing efficient and effective service, helping residents and developers make informed
decisions that protect both their investments and the environment.

If you’re planning a project near a watercourse, wetland, shoreline or potential hazard area, reach out to SVCA early for guidance. Use our online mapping tool to see if your property falls within SVCA’s area of interest:
www.saugeenconservation.ca/plan

For planning inquiries please contact: planning@svca.on.ca or 519-369-1255

For more information, please contact:
Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority
Email: media@svca.on.ca | Cell: 519-369-4295

To download the PDF, please click here.