UPDATE #20-16 COVID 19 - Recreational Amenities, Building Permits, Road Occupancy/Entrance Permits and Provincial Fire Ban
For Immediate Release
Algonquin Highlands, Ontario
Friday May 15, 2020
5:30 pm
Release # 20-16
Subject: COVID 19 Update - Recreational Amenities, Building Permits, Road Occupancy/Entrance Permits and Provincial Fire Ban
The Township of Algonquin Highlands remains under a declared State of Emergency.
The Algonquin Highlands Emergency Control Group continues to meet to conduct its assessment of the rapidly-evolving COVID-19 pandemic situation and its potential effects on Algonquin Highlands.
The following updates include information on recreational amenities, building permits, road occupancy or entrance permits as well as the Provincial fire ban.
NEW INFORMATION
1. Recreational Amenities: The provincial announcement of May 14, 2020 allows for some of Algonquin Highlands recreational amenities to open, while others must remain closed.
Recreational amenities in the Township of Algonquin Highlands now open include
- Stanhope Courts and Sports Field – 1095 North Shore Road
- Hiking Trails with the exception of the Dorset Tower Trail
- Municipal Boat Launches
Please visit the Townships Frequently Asked Questions page for further information on recreational amenities and their status.
Physical distancing and adherence to provincial group size limitations is always required.
2. Permits and Landfills: The Building Department will begin to issue building permits effective May 19, 2020.
Electronic building permit applications are preferred and can be found at https://www.algonquinhighlands.ca/government/building-permits.php.
Payment by cheque is preferred however, arrangements can be made for credit card payment if necessary.
Please visit the Townships Frequently Asked Questions page for further information on applying for, and receiving your building permit.
In order to support public health recommendations of physical distancing, the Township remains unable to process payments at the landfill which, unfortunately, means we remain unable to accept construction and demolition (C&D) waste. There are other options for the disposal of C&D which include private contractors. Additional details can be found at https://www.algonquinhighlands.ca/landfill-impact.php
We are actively pursuing alternate, cellular-based payment options and look forward to providing improved service in this regard as soon as practicable.
3. Road Occupancy Permits: Applications for Road Occupancy or Entrance permits can be found at https://www.algonquinhighlands.ca/government/road-permits.php.
Completed applications must be submitted via mail or the secure drop box at the Township Office located at 1123 North Shore Road. Payment will be accepted by cheque only, cash will not be accepted.
Once the application has been reviewed you will be contacted via email in two to three weeks.
4. Fire Ban: The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry has advised that as of 12:01 am on May 16, 2020, Ontario is lifting the Restricted Fire Zone (RFZ) designation.
A reminder that daytime burning of brush, grass, etc. is currently prohibited in accordance with By-Law 2019-31. You may burn brush, grass and leaves between 7:00 pm and 7:00 am.
Daytime burn permits remain suspended.
REMINDERS:
1. FAQs: Find out how Township operations have been impacted by COVID-19 on our Frequently Asked Questions page.
2. Other Questions: If you cannot find the answer to your question on the Frequently Asked Questions page you may email your question to [email protected] or call 705-489-2379 ext. 369 and leave a message with your questions. Your email or phone call will be returned during normal business hours 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday to Friday. If your phone call or email is an emergency, please call 911.
We thank the public for their understanding as we work toward keeping our community safe and healthy in this uncertain time.
Contact Information:
Jonathan Wilker
Fire Chief/CEMC
Township of Algonquin Highlands
(705) 489-2379 ext. 369
Algonquin Highlands, ON K0M 1J2
[email protected]
Dawn Newhook
Clerk/Emergency Information Officer
Township of Algonquin Highlands
(705 489-2379 ext, 369
[email protected]
-30-