Streamlined Approvals
The Ministry of Natural Resources is streamlining its approvals processes to help Ontarians access these services faster and more efficiently, while continuing to protect and sustainably manage Ontario's natural resources.
Learn more about how this relates to the Endangered Species Act.
What is a permit?
A permit authorizes a person to perform an activity that is not otherwise allowed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA)(e.g., harm or harass a species at risk, or damage or destroy its habitat), as long as certain requirements are met.
What kinds of permits exist under the Endangered Species Act?
There are five types of permits that may be issued under the ESA.
| Permit Name | Description & Examples |
|---|---|
Health or safety
|
For activities necessary for the protection of human health or safety Example: To shore up a rock cliff where a peregrine falcon is nesting nearby to prevent a rock slide onto the road below. More |
Protection or
Recovery
|
For activities where the main purpose is to assist the protection or recovery of the species Example: To do a research project that will identify the habitat needs of an endangered turtle species. More |
Social or Economic Benefit to Ontario
|
For activities that will result in a significant social or economic benefit to Ontario Example: To build an international bridge that is expected to increase trade and investment between Canada and the U.S., that will increase border crossing capacity, and is expected to create thousands of construction jobs in Ontario, on land that includes habitat for species at risk. More |
Aboriginal
|
For activities performed by Aboriginal persons or groups. More |
Overall Benefit
|
For all other activities Example: To build a housing development where a threatened plant grows, or to cut down an endangered tree to build a trail through private property. More |
Find out how to get the permit you need
Contact your local ministry office
Often the best source of local information on species at risk is your nearest ministry office. Call with your questions or concerns.
