NEC Enhancing In-Person Service Through Appointment-Based Model

As part of its ongoing efforts to modernize service delivery and enhance the client experience, the Niagara Escarpment Commission (NEC) is introducing an appointment-based model for in-person service at its Georgetown office, effective August 4, 2025.

This change reflects NEC’s commitment to providing efficient, accessible, and personalized support for clients navigating the Niagara Escarpment Plan (NEP) and the Development Permit process. It also aligns with the in-person service approaches used by other offices across the Ontario Public Service.

Supporting informed, timely client service

Over the past year, NEC staff have continued to respond to a wide range of walk-in inquiries—ranging from general questions to complex, site-specific matters related to development and land use. While NEC staff will remain available to greet all visitors during office hours, many of these requests require preparation, access to technical information, and discussion with the appropriate file lead.

With an appointment-first approach, staff will be able to connect with clients in a more structured, prepared manner—resulting in clearer direction, fewer follow-ups, and better overall service.

“This change gives our clients access to the expertise they need, when they need it—while allowing our staff to prepare properly and use their time more effectively. It’s a small shift with a big impact on service quality.” said Shawn Carey, Executive Director of the Niagara Escarpment Commission.

What clients can expect:

The NEC Georgetown office remains open to the public, and staff will continue to greet visitors during office hours. For quick, general inquiries that can be addressed in 15 minutes or less, clients will still receive assistance on the spot.

For more detailed questions—such as those about property-specific development, NEP policy interpretation, or Development Permit applications—clients may be asked to book an appointment. NEC staff will help direct them to the appropriate contact or provide printed materials and a QR code linking to NEC’s appointment booking page at escarpment.org/appointments.

To support this change, the NEC has also introduced:

• A new one-page handout with self-serve information and website links.
• Updated website content, related to purchasing property or undertaking development on and adjacent to the Niagara Escarpment.
• You can also visit our new resource page, Buying or Developing Lands in the Niagara Escarpment Plan Area – Niagara Escarpment Commission (NEC), which was created to address many of the questions we typically receive during walk-in visits.