The by-law ensures that land alteration is done safely and responsibly. Without proper controls, altering land can cause drainage problems, flooding, erosion, damage to natural features, and risks to public safety. It also helps protect City infrastructure such as roads, storm sewers, and utilities.
Site Alteration
Overview
The City of Peterborough’s new Site Alteration By-law (SABL) No. 25-108 is now in effect. This by-law establishes clear regulations governing when and how land may be altered within City boundaries. It applies to a range of activities including, but not limited to, grading, excavation, and the placement or removal of soil or fill material.
The primary objective of the by-law is to ensure that all site alteration activities are conducted responsibly and with due consideration for public safety, environmental protection, and the preservation of municipal infrastructure.
Specifically, the by-law is intended to:
- Prevent flooding, erosion, and sedimentation that may result from unregulated grading or fill placement;
- Protect sensitive natural features, such as wetlands, watercourses, and woodlands;
- Ensure alterations do not negatively impact adjacent properties or City-owned infrastructure (e.g., roads, stormwater systems);
- Establish a consistent, transparent, and fair permitting process for homeowners, developers, contractors, and other stakeholders.
Anyone planning to undertake land alteration activities within the City should review the by-law requirements and determine whether a permit is required prior to commencing work. The City encourages early consultation with staff to ensure compliance and to facilitate efficient processing of permit applications.
Why the By-law is important
Changing the landscape can have significant impacts on drainage, safety, and the environment.
The Site Alteration By-law helps to:
- Protect the environment by limiting erosion and sedimentation, safeguarding natural features, and preserving water quality
- Prevent flooding by maintaining proper drainage and ensuring stormwater flows are not obstructed
- Protect public safety by reducing risks such as unstable slopes or improperly placed fill
- Safeguard infrastructure by preventing damage to roads, sewers, and utilities caused by hauling or uncontrolled site changes
- Support development by allowing site preparation to begin earlier in some cases, while ensuring proper controls and approvals are in place
Activities Exempt from the By-law
The by-law is not intended to restrict typical household or landscaping activities.
Examples of exempt activities include:
- Planting gardens, trees, or shrubs
- Topdressing or reseeding lawns
- Building fences, sheds, patios, or walkways
- Minor grading associated with normal yard maintenance
Provided these activities do not, significantly change grades, block drainage (maintain a minimum offset of 0.60m from drainage swales or ditches), or harm the natural environment.
Permit Requirements for Site Alteration Activities
Permits are required for site alteration activities that exceed minimal thresholds, in order to ensure proper review and oversight. The type of permit required is based on the scale and scope of the proposed work, as outlined below:
|
Permit Type |
Scope of Work |
Typical Examples |
General Permit Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Minor Alteration |
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Intermediate Alteration |
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Major Alteration |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the City regulate site alterations?
Isn't their already legislation that governs how site alterations are done?
Existing legislation is fragmented and largely reactive. Conservation Authorities regulate only lands adjacent to watercourses, while O. Reg. 406/19 addresses soil quality but not placement or drainage. The Environmental Protection Act and Fisheries Act typically come into play only after environmental damage has occurred. The Site Alteration By-Law is proactive, filling critical enforcement gaps to protect the City from the costly risks associated with unregulated earth-moving activities.
All applications are submitted through the City’s Online Permit System. You will be guided through the process step by step, including document submission and fee payment.
What documents do I need to provide?
The requirements depend on the scale of the project. For smaller projects, a simple grading plan may be enough. Larger projects may require engineering drawings, soil reports, stormwater management studies, or haul route details. The application portal and City staff can clarify what is required for your situation.
How long does it take to get a permit?
Processing times vary depending on the scale of the project and the completeness of the application. Simple minor permits can often be issued within a couple weeks, while larger projects may require additional review time depending on the completeness of the original application. Applicants are encouraged to plan ahead and allow sufficient time for review.
|
Permit Category |
Base Fee |
Additional Fee |
Maximum Fee |
|
Minor Alteration |
$300.00 |
N/A |
$300.00 |
|
Intermediate Alteration |
$1,000.00 |
$1,000.00 per hectare of disturbed area |
No maximum |
|
Major Alteration |
$1,500.00 |
$1,000.00 per hectare of disturbed area |
$20,000.00 |
Please refer to the City's Fees and Charges By-law for updated fee information.
How to Apply:
Permit applications are completed online through the City's Permit System.
- Confirm requirements by reviewing the by-law and determining if your project requires a permit
- Prepare your application by gathering the required documents such as plans, reports, or studies depending on project type
- Submit online by uploading documents and paying fees securely
- City review of the application will take place, with clarifications requested if needed, and permit conditions issued
- Approval and work may proceed once a permit is issued, following the approved plans. Inspections may be carried out
- Completion occurs when the site is stabilized and conditions are met. At that time the permit will be closed and securities, if applicable, will be released
Please refer to the Application Guideline Document for full detailed related to adhering to the Site Alteration By-Law.
Compliance and Enforcement:
Work completed without the required permit, or outside the conditions of approval, may result in:
- Stop work orders
- Fines and penalties
- Use of securities to restore or stabilize the site
Applicants are encouraged to contact staff before beginning any work if they are unsure whether a permit is required.
Resources:
- Read the full Site Alteration By-law No. 20-108
- Application Guidance Document
- Online Applications
If you are unsure whether your project requires a permit, please reach out to City staff. We are here to guide you through the process and ensure your project can proceed smoothly and responsibly.