The ordinary high-water mark (OHWM) is the normal boundary between a waterfront property owner’s land and provincial Crown land. The OHWM is defined as the average of the normal high tides generally represented by a physical mark on the landscape. Property owners can undertake erosion control structures or works to protect their properties from erosion on their own private lands above the OHWM, and all relevant rural community, municipal, provincial, and federal permits must be obtained. The Department’s prior approval is required for structures or works below the OHWM.