Summary of Feedback

Thank you to all those who participated in the Site Alteration By-law review. We appreciate the comments, questions, and concerns raised by those who took part in the consultation events and the online survey. All submissions will be considered during the preparation of the final version of the by-law for Council’s consideration in the fall of 2024.

Consultations held:

• Four information sessions were held in collaboration with the City of Ottawa’s rural ward Councillors – Ward 1 Orléans East-Cumberland, Ward 5 West Carleton-March, Ward 19 Orléans South-Navan, Ward 20 Osgoode, and Ward 21 Rideau-Jock. A total of 18 people attended those sessions.
• Through the online survey, we received feedback from 15 participants.

Summary of feedback:

• In general, feedback received at the rural information sessions indicated that many people were unfamiliar with the by-law and its application.
• Several questions were received about whether the by-law would impact farm operations or rural residents in their daily activities, and how people would know if they needed the City’s approval for site alteration.

Proposed changes to Schedule B:

• Regarding the proposed changes, two respondents wanted the by-law’s environmental protections limited to the urban boundary, while five individuals raised concerns on reducing the buffer from 2 km beyond the urban boundary to 1 km. This concern was also raised during one of the rural information sessions.

Proposed changes to the drainage section of the by-law:

• Several survey respondents stated that there was a need for regulation of groundwater flow and better protection for subsurface and groundwater, including well water.
• The Greater Ottawa Home Builders’ Association (GOHBA) written feedback recommends that the City retain the regulation of groundwater and subsurface drainage in the Site Alteration by-law.

Proposed changes to the notification section of the by-law:

• Some survey respondents raised concerns that without a notification process for projects that are not subject to a Planning Act application, there would be unintended property damage, such as flooding.
• Several survey respondents emphasized the need for those completing major site alterations and clearing of land to notify their neighbours, as well as City Staff and the local Councillor.
• Overall, survey feedback emphasized the need for effective enforcement and clear procedures to protect neighbouring properties.

Notifying the ward Councillor for site alteration not subject to a Planning Action application:

• Feedback varied, but the overall sentiment leans towards reserving notifications for significant alterations, rather than involving the Councillors in routine property changes.

Additionally, GOHBA would like to see an opportunity for an appeal on any decision made by the General Manager on site alterations within 30 metres of a natural feature and on issuing of Notices of Violation or Stop Work orders. GOHBA suggests that the right of appeal be made to committee (Planning and Housing Committee and Agriculture and Rural Affairs), with subsequent appeal to the Ontario Land Tribunal.