Quebec: Temporary implementation of the amendments made in connection with the management of flood risks

Quebec has published a new draft regulation that would implement a temporary framework for the management of bodies of water to replace the Protection Policy for Lakeshores, Riverbanks, Littoral Zones and Floodplains (chapter Q-2, r. 35).

It makes certain activities subject to the issuance of an authorization by the relevant municipality for work, constructions or other interventions carried out in bodies of water, and sets the conditions that apply to an application for authorization. It also determines the flood zones subject to the new framework until the boundaries of flood zones are established.

Among other things:

• The Regulation respecting activities in wetlands, bodies of water and sensitive areas is amended with respect to certain standards applicable to work, constructions and other interventions carried out in bodies of water, and adds new standards.
• The Regulatory scheme applying to activities on the basis of their environmental impact is amended to change some of the conditions that apply to activities and to add new activities eligible for a declaration of compliance as well as new activities exempted from ministerial authorization, pursuant to section 31.0.11 of the Environment Quality Act.

Other sections of the amendment specifically address provisions regarding agricultural operations and pesticides management.

Canadian Water and Wastewater Association