Building Development and Approvals

Development and re-development proposals within the Town are dependent upon a wide range of approvals and requirements. Below are a few of the offices and public agencies, which may influence your proposal and a brief description of their roles within the Building Permit process.

Therefore, prior to any Building Permit submission, please consult Building Staff to review the list below to determine which approvals may be required. 

Town of Fort Erie's Fire Prevention Office

To protect the public from the risk of fire through pro-active public education, building plans examinations, building retrofits and other Fire Code compliances.

Town of Fort Erie's Committee of Adjustment (COA)

The Committee of Adjustment (COA) is an independent quasi-judicial body administrative tribunal that makes decisions under the Planning Act on applications for minor variance, consent and permissions to extend or enlarge legal non-conforming uses.

Town of Fort Erie's Community Improvement Plan (CIP)

The CIP's intention is to rejuvenate and revitalize the traditional downtown commercial core areas through incentive programs.

Town of Fort Erie's Site Plan Approval Process

The process aims to improve the image and appearance of the Town by applying consistent standards and guidelines, ensure the safety and convenience of automobile and pedestrian traffic, and to protect environmental areas and habitat through the appropriate location of buildings, roads and parking spaces.

Town of Fort Erie's Cultural Heritage Value and Interest Registry

Buildings on the Town Registry are either "non-designated" or "designated".  A non-designated property that has been included on the Registry, signals an intent toward preservation.  While a designation means that demolition or alteration of the heritage attributes of the building will require Council approval.

Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA)

NPCA's mission is to establish and undertake programs designed to further the conservation, restoration, development and management of natural resources.

Niagara Regional Planning and Development Department

Through the implementation of Provincial and Regional policies, the management of lands within Niagara Region are strategically planned to promote long-range growth.

Niagara Regional Public Health and Emergency Services

The agency strives to inform the public about health programs, services and an efficient response to the changing public health needs, as well as provide food premises inspections to ensure healthy growth and development.

Niagara Parks Commission (NPC)

The NPC's mission is to protect the natural and cultural heritage along the Niagara River for the enjoyment of visitors and residents through its policies and development regulations. 

Ministry of Transportation (MTO)

The MTO is responsible for managing the Provincial highway corridor network through its policies, guidelines and supports economic growth while ensuring the safe and efficient movement of people and goods. 

Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MOECP)

The Ministry is responsible for protecting and conserving our natural heritage, preventing and managing pollution and promoting a sustainable environment for present and future generations.

Ministry of Labour (MOL)

The Ministry focuses on fostering safe, fair and healthy workplaces, promoting constructive industrial relations, and ensuring compliance with labor laws.  

Office of the Fire Marshal (OFM)

The OFM provides leadership and expertise regarding fire safety and promotes changes to minimize the impact of fire and other public safety hazards to people, property and the environment in Ontario through the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997 (FPPA) and the Fire Code.

Alcohol & Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO)

The AGCO is responsible to establish a framework of regulatory controls in the public interest that are sensitive to the economic viability of the alcohol, gaming, horse racing and cannabis industries.