In response to a court decision in June of 2015, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry has been required to change the requirements for docks and boathouses on shore lands. Authorizations under the Public Lands Act are now required for new, expansions of existing and seasonal docks and single-storey boathouses that occupy more than 15 square metres or 161 sq. ft. (shadow).

Replacement structures will also require authorization if the structure occupies more than 15 square metres (161 sq. ft.) of shore lands. Authorization will generally be in the form of occupational authority to authorize the occupation and associated work such as construction. A Land Use Permit (LUP) which will be issued free of charge. In cases where construction includes works conducted on privately owned shore lands, a work permit will also be required.

This will affect the majority of docks on Six Mile Lake and, realistically, in Ontario.

The details of the court case and the judge’s decision are available at Decision-Boathouse in Water Jurisdiction.pdf.

The application form from MNRF is available at Land Use Permit Application 2016 Parry Sound.pdf