Planning Changes to Your Waterfront?

If you are planning changes to your waterfront in Lake of Bays here is what you need to know about the Community Planning Permit System (CPPS).

CPPS

The Township of Lake of Bays has implemented a new Community Planning Permit System (CPPS) to streamline the approval process for zoning, site plans, and minor variances. This new by-law, By-law 2021-111, came into effect on April 18, 2024, and applies township-wide, replacing previous zoning by-laws.

Designed to simplify planning applications and protect shorelines, the CPPS combines the steps of multiple applications into a single, quicker process. If you’re planning any development or changes to your waterfront property, here’s what you need to know about how this system could affect your project.

How CPPS Works:

The CPPS focuses on protecting shorelines and natural vegetation while allowing for regulated development. The streamlined system is more efficient than the standard planning process in Ontario.

If you plan to alter your shoreline or remove vegetation, especially along waterfront properties, you may require a permit. The CPPS ensures your project meets specific guidelines to maintain the natural environment while balancing the needs of property owners.

Unsure About How CPPS Affects Your Project?

If you’re unsure whether your project will be impacted by the CPPS, the Planning Services Department will evaluate your proposal and provide guidance on the next steps.

Here’s What You’ll Need to Submit:

A brief description of your proposal.
A detailed site plan showing all buildings and structures on the property (a hand-drawn sketch is fine as long as it’s to scale).
A list of all existing and proposed structures with their footprints.
Photos of your shoreline (spring or summer photos preferred)

Key Considerations for Waterfront Property Owners

The most important area of our waterways is the shoreline. Healthy shorelines are vital for aquatic life, as most species rely on them for feeding and raising their young. That’s why it’s crucial to preserve natural shorelines and limit development along the waterfront.

The CPPS ensures that property owners follow specific guidelines when planning any changes to the shoreline or surrounding environment. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Natural shorelines will be retained and restored.
Buildings and structures should blend into the landscape.
Vegetation will be preserved, especially near the shoreline, skylines, and ridgelines.
Native species should be used to restore vegetation wherever possible.
Building envelopes and activity areas should be clearly defined, with the rest of the property left in its natural state.

General Guidelines for Waterfront Properties

If you’re considering removing vegetation or altering the site within 100 feet of the water’s edge, you may need a permit. Here are some general guidelines to follow:

Setbacks for structures from the water’s edge could be 66 to 100 feet, depending on the lake your property is located on.
A permit may be required for site alterations or vegetation removal within wetlands, steep slopes, or natural heritage areas.
Dwellings are limited to a maximum gross floor area of 7,535 sq.ft. and a maximum width of 75% of your property’s width.

Shoreline Activity Area (SAA)

Your property’s Shoreline Activity Area refers to the portion of the shoreline where structures like docks or boathouses and human activities can occur. Here’s what you need to know about SAAs:

SAA frontage can be up to 25% of your shoreline, or 75 feet, whichever is less.
A minimum of 75% of the shoreline must be left in its natural vegetated state, to a minimum depth of 50 feet.
Structures within the SAA cannot exceed 40% coverage of the SAA.

Permitted Shoreline Structures

Permitted structures in a Shoreline Activity Area include:

Docks
Boathouses or boat ports
Marine storage sheds
Patios (with specific guidelines. Refer to by-law 2021-111 ).

Lot Coverage and Legal Non-Complying Properties

The maximum lot coverage for all buildings and structures is 10%, including any structures both on land and over water. If you have a legal non-complying property (buildings constructed before November 26, 1996), there are provisions in the by-law for recognizing or expanding these structures, though planning approval may be required

For more Information on the Community Planning Permit System for Lake of Bays Lake of Bays CPPS

For more Information on the Community Planning Permit Systm for Huntsville Huntsville CPPS

If you’re planning any changes, make sure to reach out to the Township of Lake of Bays or the Town of Huntsville for guidance and ensure you’re preserving the integrity of the natural shoreline!

Whether you’re dreaming of lakeside living or looking to sell your cherished cottage, my team and I are here to make it happen. With decades of experience in Muskoka waterfront properties, we know what it takes to find the perfect retreat or secure top value for your sale. Ready to take the next step? Reach out today, and let’s turn your vision into reality. Call, email, or stop by our boutique office in Dwight—your new adventure in North Muskoka/Lake of Bays is just a conversation away.