Buying Near Rouge National Urban Park and the Oak Ridges Moraine in Markham

Neeraj Moolchandani is a top real estate agent in Markham, Ontario. Published November 11, 2026 · By Neeraj Moolchandani, REALTOR®, Cofounder of the Kaizen Real Estate Team, eXp Realty, Brokerage

Markham's eastern and northern edges border some of the most protected land in Canada. For many buyers, a home next to parkland is the dream. Our Kaizen Real Estate Team is one of the teams Markham buyers trust with these decisions, and this guide explains what that protection gives you and what it asks of you.

What Protected Land Borders Markham

Rouge National Urban Park: The Government of Canada describes the park as covering 79 square kilometres. The Rouge National Urban Park Act took effect in 2015, and Parks Canada notes the park includes some of the last remaining Class 1 farmland in the region, with farmers working the land under park leases.

Greenbelt: Markham's Official Plan says the Greenbelt extends along the major tributaries of the Rouge watershed north of Major Mackenzie Drive, with more Greenbelt land in eastern Markham.

Oak Ridges Moraine: The same plan notes that portions of the southern toe of the moraine extend into Markham at its northern boundary.

Areas such as Box Grove and the eastern hamlets of Locust Hill and Dickson Hill sit close to these lands.

What Protection Gives You

• A lasting view: parkland protected by federal law is very unlikely to become a subdivision behind you.
• Trails and nature: walking and cycling routes close to home.
• Privacy: no rear neighbours in many cases.
• Buyer appeal: many buyers value green space when you sell, though it depends on the specific lot.

What It Asks of You

Being next to protected land means your own plans face more review. Markham's Official Plan sets minimum vegetation protection zones measured from natural features. Development within 120 metres of many features generally triggers study.

Source: City of Markham Official Plan 2014, Chapter 3, Table 3.1.2.22 (July 2024 consolidation). In the Moraine and Greenbelt, provincial standards apply.

On the Moraine itself, the provincial Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan divides land into Natural Core, Natural Linkage, Countryside and Settlement Areas. New lots and development are very restricted outside settlement areas, and development near key natural features is only allowed if it will not harm them.

• Additions, pools, decks and sheds may need studies and a conservation authority permit.
• Grading or filling near the rear of a lot can be restricted.
• Fences may need to stay off public land and respect setbacks; some lots have encroachments to fix.
• Tree removal can need approval.

Our guide on homes backing onto ravines explains conservation authority permits in more detail.

Living Beside Working Farmland

Parts of the park are active farms. That brings open views and a rural feel, but also tractors at harvest, seasonal smells and dust on dry days. Wildlife is part of life too: deer, coyotes and other animals use these corridors. Visit at different times of day and in different seasons before you decide.

Your Checklist Before You Buy

1. Get the survey and check for encroachments onto public or park land.
2. Ask your lawyer to search title for easements; see our guide on easements.
3. Check the conservation authority's regulated area mapping for the lot.
4. If you plan an addition or pool, speak with the City and the conservation authority before you firm up.
5. For rural acreage, inspect the well and septic system and confirm any farm related agreements.
6. Confirm insurance, especially for older rural homes or properties near watercourses.

If you suspect a fence or shed crosses a line, our post on property line disputes explains the options.

Questions Markham Clients Ask

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