News

Forgivable Loan and Head Lease ProgramsSupport First-Time Homeowners and Rental Housing

Muskoka, ON- The District of Muskoka is taking action to address the growing need for affordable housing across Muskoka.

Applications are now open for two new funding programs: 

• Development Charges Forgivable Loan Program for first-time homeowners
• Head Lease Funding Programfor developers and landlords

“With affordability challenges only increasing right now, we are rolling out two programs that can help both Muskoka residents...

Climate changeamplifies these challenges, disproportionately affecting those with fewer financial resources.Rising food prices, extreme weather that can lead to power outages and spoiled food, and

Construction scheduled to start again in April and be completed by the end of 2026

Muskoka, ON -The District of Muskoka and the Township of Lake of Bays are transforming the section of Muskoka Road 117 (MR117) in the community of Baysville. Crews are anticipated to be on-site this week as they prepare to resume construction from Bridge Street to Bay Street in early April.The work is scheduled to be complete by the end of 2026.

Work on the 780-metre section of MR117 began in September 2025, from University Street to...

The Youth Council brings together passionatehigh school students from across Muskoka to learn about climate action, share ideas, and lead projects that inspire their peers to take meaningful steps toward a healthier environment and...

Muskoka’s clear bag program was launched last March with goals: reduce waste, improve recycling, and extend the life of the Rosewarne Landfill.

Thanks to the efforts of residents, businesses, and seasonal visitors, we are seeing real results one year later. Approximately 336,000 fewer garbage bags went into the Rosewarne Landfill over the last year, which avoided almost $700,000 in landfill disposal fees, freeing up more space and extending its lifespan by...

Applications open until May 1, 2026

Muskoka, ON – The District of Muskoka is making it easier and quicker to address the need for affordable housing across Muskoka.

Two funding opportunities are now available through the Muskoka Affordable Housing Initiatives Program (MAHIP). MAHIP is designed to boost affordable housing supply across the district, and those who are interested are encouraged to submit their applications now.

“This program helps property owners and developers create more rental housing and...

Ravenscliffe Roadto temporarily close starting the week of Monday, March 2 for culvert replacement

Muskoka, ON - The District of Muskoka is replacing the Bittern Creek culvert with a new structure. To ensure this work is completed safely and ahead of the spring thaw, constructionand a full road closure on Ravenscliffe Road (also known as Muskoka Road 2), near Old Novar Road,are scheduled to take place starting the week of March 2. Work is anticipated to be completed in April 2026.

What Happened

The Bittern Creek culvert is a large...

Local non-profit community groups could receive grants of up to $10,000

Muskoka, ON – Applications for the District’s 2026 Muskoka Community Grant Program are now open.The program helps fund local projects led by community members, grassroots groups, non-profit organizations and registered charitieswith the goal of making a difference in Muskoka.

Two grant opportunities are available in 2026:

Pay It Forward (PIF)

• Available since 2012, PIF provides grants of up to $2,500. 
• Open to community members or grassroots...