What Ontario laws govern water taking?
The Ministry of the Environment is responsible for deciding how much water can be taken from the province’s water sources under the Permit to Take Water Program, a regulation under the Ontario Water Resources Act. Any proposal for water withdrawals over 50,000 litres per day must be approved by the Ministry of the Environment. See the Water Taking FAQ. In December 2003 the Minister of the Environment imposed a moratorium on all new and expanded water taking permits. The government is proceeding with a review of the decision-making process and rules governing the Permit to Take Water program, including charging fees for water taking. Historically all water taking has been free. This means that there is no value placed on the water taken under the Permit to Take Water program and, therefore, no incentive for conservation.
