Site Alteration Permits

The City of Niagara Falls requires permits for site alteration activities to ensure that the work is done responsibly and in compliance with local regulations, which often focus on protecting drainage, water quality, and natural features. 

About site alteration

A "site alteration" generally refers to any physical change to a site, including the movement, removal, or placement of soil, fill, or topsoil, or the alteration of the grade of land, often requiring permits from local municipalities.   

Examples of site alteration:

• Importing or removing fill (soil, gravel, rocks, etc.) 
• Altering existing drainage patterns or characteristics
• Building a retaining wall/berm
• Landscape work involving significant earth-moving 

Why it matters

Site alteration can have significant impacts on drainage patterns, water quality, erosion, and the overall environment, which is why municipalities often regulate it.