Concerning ERO # 019-6590…

Concerning ERO # 019-6590

Amendments to the Ontario Regulation 161/17 under the Public Lands Act are under review by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry in order to clarify what types of accommodation units should be allowed to camp on water over public land, and how to regulate such units. Specific amendments were proposed by the Ministry in February 2023. Subsequently, on March 17, 2023 key restrictions in the proposal were removed or changed. These changes should not be allowed as they weaken key protections.

In particular:

-The number of days a person can camp on water over public land was increased from 7 days to 21 per location, per calendar year.

-The distance that a person camping on water must move their camping unit to a different location, was decreased from 1 kilometre to 100 metres.

-There is inadequate protection for developed shoreline. A condition should be added that prohibits camping on water within at least 300 metres of cottages, boathouses, docks, or other waterfront developments, as well as from campsites, portages, and the like.

Additionally, the size of units camping over water must be taken into consideration and reasonably limited, as environmental impact is proportional. Beyond a certain size, it is no longer “camping”. Illegal wastewater discharge, litter, noise pollution, and visual impact will all be proportional.

A cottage is different from a boat is different from a tent. Each is extensively regulated for safety, environmental protection, and to insure the quiet enjoyment of Canada’s natural resources for all Canadians and visitors.

In our area, boathouses are restricted and cottages must be set back at least 15 meters from the shoreline to limit visual impact and protect the natural beauty of the lake and the sense of wilderness that residents, cottagers, campers, boaters, and other recreational users so value.

Whether we call it a “boat”, a “cottage”, a “tent”, or a “camping unit”, we must insure that any floating structures comply with these fundamental concerns.