New Regulation to Focus Municipal Environmental Assessment Requirements

The Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) is continuing to modernize the environmental assessment framework by creating a streamlined environmental assessment regulation for municipal infrastructure projects.  

Effective January 1, 2027, a new regulation will replace the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) with the Municipal Project Assessment Process (MPAP) for more complex municipal infrastructure projects. For designated projects, public review and consultation can be completed in as little as five months.

The regulation also introduces an Archaeological Assessment Process (AAP) for certain other projects to identify potential impacts to archaeological resources and maintain opportunities for input from Indigenous communities.

Over the coming months, the Ministry will develop guidance and work with Ontario municipalities and the municipal development sector to support implementation. 

More information about these changes, including which projects will be subject to the new requirements, process details and transition provisions, is available on the Environmental Registry of Ontario.

If you have any questions, please reach out to Patrick McManus (patrick.mcmanus@oswca.org or 905-629-7766).