A project to build 22 new homes with commercial space will begin in July 2026 in North Hatley on Mill Street, where Picalilli used to be located. Rumor has it that the land where it will be built is located in a flood zone. Obviously, I’m no expert, so check with the municipality.
I am not a municipal inspector or a municipal lawyer, so I have questions about this topic, as do many citizens. Can a brand new building be constructed in a flood zone?
The quickest and cheapest way to find out is to ask ChatGPT. Of course, you should always check your sources. So I asked ChatGPT, “Can a new building be constructed in a flood zone in Quebec?”
Here is his response:
In Quebec, construction in flood zones is strictly regulated, particularly since the major floods of 2017 and 2019. Here are the key points to know:
Can you build in a flood zone in Quebec?
Yes, but under strict conditions, which depend on:
- Type of flood zone (0-20 years or 20-100 years)
- Type of project (renovation, reconstruction, new construction)
- Municipal and regional policy (some municipalities may impose a total ban)
Types of flood zones in Quebec
- Zone 0-20 years (high frequency of flooding)
- Almost total ban on construction, with very limited exceptions (public works, mitigation measures, etc.)
- Existing buildings can sometimes be renovated or expanded, but only under strict conditions.
- Zone 20-100 years (low to medium frequency)
- Construction is possible, but with specific requirements (minimum building heights, suitable foundations, etc.).
Typical requirements for building in flood zones
- Compliance with municipal and regional regulations.
- Engineering study demonstrating the safety of the project (e.g., raising the slab level, water-resistant materials).
- Special permit or exemption often required.
- Application of the policy for the protection of riverbanks, coastlines, and floodplains.
Please note:
- Since 2022, the legal framework has been under review. Quebec has implemented a new flood zone mapping system in collaboration with municipalities.
- You can view the interactive map from the Quebec Ministry of the Environment here.
Recommendations
- Check with your municipality: regulations may vary locally.
- Check the official map to see if your land is in a risk area.
- Consult a professional: civil engineer, urban planner, or land surveyor.
Sur ce, le sujet demeure encore confus. Évidemment, si le nouvel immeuble à logements de la rue Mill à North Hatley est en zone 0-20 ans, ce qui serait peu probable, il ne pourrait pas se construire. Il est donc probablement situé en zone non inondable ou en zone 20-100 ans ce qui permet à la municipalité d’autoriser sa construction avec une dérogation autorisée par les élus. Finalement, il est possible de construire en zone inondable sur approbation de votre municipalité.
D’ailleurs, une construction sur la rue Mill est devrait permettre de revitaliser l’endroit qui manque un peu d’amour. Surtout que tous les visiteurs passent par le stationnement et ensuite par la rue Mill pour se rendre au centre du village de North Hatley. À ma connaissance et à première vue, ce projet de 22 logements m’apparaît une bonne chose pour le village.
