Upcoming rule change expands and refines the hearing exemption for waste and sewage works under the Environmental Assessment Act

Plain-language summary · AI-assisted · not legal advice

Starting in early 2027, the rule that exempts certain waste disposal sites, waste management systems, and sewage works from Environmental Protection Act hearings will be updated. The exemption will be broadened to cover undertakings subject to Parts II.1, II.3, or II.4 of the Environmental Assessment Act—adding Part II.4 to the existing list. However, a new carve-out means the exemption will not apply to sewage works that are specifically designated as Part II.4 projects under sections 35 or 37 of Ontario Regulation 50/24. Operators and owners of sewage works should check whether their project falls under that designation, as they may still be subject to a hearing. Waste disposal site and waste management system operators whose projects fall under Parts II.1, II.3, or II.4 will generally benefit from the broader exemption.

Who this affects: waste disposal site operators · waste management system operators · sewage works owners and operators · environmental assessment practitioners · municipalities with infrastructure projects