By : Conservation Lac Brome

At its February meeting, the Town Council of Brome Lake presented a revision of its zoning by-law 596-20 aimed at better regulating runoff on private properties. The Town is proposing to reduce the maximum permitted building footprint, a key measure to limit soil impermeabilization.

This direction represents an important step for lake protection and an issue Conservation Lac Brome has long championed.

We know that impermeable surfaces such as buildings prevent the natural infiltration of rainwater. As a result, water flows more quickly toward ditches, streams, and ultimately the lake, carrying sediments, nutrients, and pollutants along the way. In contrast, sustainable stormwater management relies on preserving permeable surfaces that slow and filter runoff, such as rain gardens, vegetated shorelines, and permeable paving.

Better late than never

This regulatory update comes at a critical moment. In recent years, the boom in new construction and reconstruction has led to a significant increase in impermeable surfaces, placing growing pressure on the lake. However, to ensure the long-term health of Brome Lake, future regulatory updates will also need to address exterior landscaping features including asphalt driveways and concrete patios, which contribute just as much to runoff.

Shared responsibility

Protecting the lake depends on everyone’s commitment. Residents can reduce their impact by making thoughtful landscaping choices on their own properties. For its part, the Town must also improve stormwater management on public land. Streets, culverts, sewers, and ditches fall under its responsibility, and their ability to retain, filter, or redirect rainwater is just as crucial for the lake’s health. Adding infrastructure such as retention basins or StormSeptor-type capture systems is becoming essential to prevent municipal stormwater from flowing directly into the lake and its tributaries.