The Federal Government of Canada is generally not involved in issues concerning shoreline erosion unless a project’s footprint would enter the water. in addition, any project that might interfere with the habitat of an endangered animal or some other aspect of the environment and this might result in the involvement of the Federal authorities. Finally, property rights issues occasionally end up being settled within the legal system with some cases reaching the Supreme Court.
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and its Special Operating Agency, the Canadian
Coast Guard, deliver programs and services that support sustainable use and development
of Canada’s waterways and aquatic resources including inland lakes.
Environment Canada's mandate is to
preserve, conserve and enhance the quality of the natural environment, including water, air, soil, flora, and fauna; to provide forecasts, daily weather and detailed meteorological information to all of Canada; to enforce rules relating to boundary waters; and coordinate environmental policies.
The Supreme Court of Canada is Canada's final court of appeal, the last judicial resort for all litigants, whether individuals or governments. Its jurisdiction embraces both the civil law of the province of Quebec and the common law of the other provinces and territories.