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About the New Standards

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This page gives specifics about the new environmental site condition standards.

 When the new standards will come into effect

The updated standards will come into effect July 1, 2011.

 Who may continue to use 2004 standards after July 1, 2011 - and what you must do

Section 21.1 of the amended Ontario Regulation 153/04 took effect on July 1, 2010. The regulation sets out requirements to allow a property owner to use the “March 9, 2004 Soil, Ground Water and Sediment Standards” (“2004 standards”) and associated provisions of the current regulation in certain circumstances after July 1, 2011.

The regulation allows the continued use of the 2004 standards and the associated provisions if:

  • the owner meets the requirements of Section 21.1 and submits the required notice before January 1, 2011
  • the owner wishes to use the 2004 standards
  • the owner submits an RSC for filing after July 1, 2011 but before January 1, 2013
  • the ministry issues a notice of receipt of the RSC for filing before January 1, 2013.

In order for an owner to be eligible to use the 2004 standards, the required Notice must be completed and submitted via email to the Ministry of Environment between July 1, 2010 and December 31, 2010 along with the necessary supporting documents.

For a copy of the Notice and submission information, please see our publications section.

 Where you can learn more about the strengthened standards

Please read our fact sheet about the strengthened standards (PDF) for more information.