On February 27, 2026, the Province announced Phase 1 regulatory amendments to streamline natural resource permitting in support of homebuilding, wildfire recovery, and ecosystem restoration. The four changes include: 

• A conditional exemption for construction dewatering 
• A short-term water-use exemption to support ice road construction at restoration sites 
• Expanded eligibility for stream restoration activities 
• Riparian area definition and clarity enhancements 

The Water Sustainability Regulation changes are now in effect. Please find UDI's letter on our Phase 1 feedback here. UDI continues to engage on the proposed Riparian Areas Protection Regulation amendments, anticipated to take effect in 2027, and will keep members informed. 

Additional information can be found in both of our Phase 2 feedback letters.