The Niagara Escarpment Plan (2005)

The Niagara Escarpment Plan is Canada's first, large-scale environmental land use plan. The Plan, which is implemented by the Niagara Escarpment Commission, ensures that there is a balance between environmental protection, development and enjoyment of this precious resource.

Applications filed prior to June 1, 2005 may be eligible for consideration under the 1994 Niagara Escarpment Plan.

Niagara Escarpment Plan Maps

Poster Size Plan Maps
The set of 10 Plan Maps are available to download. To order a printed set or individual maps ($10/each) contact nec@escarpment.org

Page Size Plan Maps
A series of detailed page size (8.5" X 11) Plan maps showing the NEP Area are also available for printing or download.

Development Control Maps
A series of detailed page size (8.5" X 11") showing the NEC Development Control Area are available for printing or download

Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act

The purpose of the Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act is to "provide for the maintenance of the Niagara Escarpment and land in its vicinity substantially as a continuous natural environment and to ensure only such development occurs as is compatible with that natural environment." Download the Act in PDF or Microsoft Word format.

Niagara Escarpment Development Control Regulation

Visit this webpage to read Regulation 828/90 or to download a copy of the regulation (in PDF or Microsoft Word format) in its entirety. The page also includes a link to Regulation 826 - Designation of Area of Development Control.

Niagara Escarpment Policies

Visit this webpage to review or comment on current or proposed Niagara Escarpment Commission policies.

Do I Need a Niagara Escarpment Permit?

The Niagara Escarpment Plan sets out the land use policies for the Escarpment. For general guidelines on what types of development may require a Niagara Escarpment Development Permit, download this handbook and then contact the NEC for more detailed information.

CBRA Brochure

Biosphere Reserves are places for promoting and demonstrating a balanced relationship between people and nature. Canada's Biosphere Reserves are designed by Canadians to address local issues of land and resource use. Ontario's Niagara Escarpment is one of 12 Canadian Biosphere Reserves. In Canada, the 12 reserves work together to meet shared needs through the Canadian Biosphere Reserves Association (CBRA). Canadian Biosphere Reserves are part of a World Network of 507 sites in 102 countries. All are recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Visit this page to learn more about CBRA and to download CBRA's brochure.