New GRCA planning fees

New resource planning fees comes into effect Jan. 1, 2016.

The fees remain the same as last year for minor applications. But the new schedule reflects a two per cent increase for permit applications, plan review, title clearance and inquiries.

The number of permits and planning applications changes each year. To Oct. 31, 2015, 650 permit applications were received, compared to 671 in 2014 and 753 in 2013.

To date in 2015, there have not been any below water table aggregate applications, while only one large fill permit was received.

The fees help to cover the cost of GRCA staff time for planning, engineering, aquatics and terrestrial resources.

GRCA staff consulted with the Home Builders/GRCA Liaison Committee and the Ontario Stone, Sand and Gravel Association before setting the new fees.