Latest News

August 7, 2026

Effective January 1, 2027, the new regulation will replace the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) with the Municipal Project Assessment Process (MPAP) for more complex municipal infrastructure projects. The new approach maintains strong environmental oversight while streamlining requirements and providing a clearer, more predictable process. For designated projects, public review and consultation can be completed in as little as five months.

The regulation also introduces an Archaeological Assessment Process (AAP) for certain other projects to identify potential impacts to archaeological resources and maintain opportunities for input from Indigenous communities.

Over the coming months, the ministry will develop guidance and work with Ontario municipalities and the municipal development sector to support implementation of the new framework and a smooth transition ahead of the January 1, 2027, effective date. 

As part of our ongoing efforts to modernize the environmental assessment program, the ministry will be reviewing the remaining Class EA processes and will consult on any proposed changes before they are made. Streamlining approvals while maintaining strong environmental protections is part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario by supporting housing, accelerating infrastructure delivery and driving economic growth across the province.

More information about these changes, including which projects will be subject to the new requirements, process details and transition provisions, is available on the Environmental Registry of Ontario. Until the new regulation comes into force, the Municipal Class EA process will continue to apply.

If you have questions, please contact the EA Modernization team at:
EAmodernization.mecp@ontario.ca.

Sincerely,  

 

Annamaria Cross

Director, Environmental Assessment and Permissions Modernization Branch
Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks