Disclaimer
This is a preliminary screening only. It does not replace a professional site assessment or official MDS/setback review. Contact us for a detailed evaluation of your specific site.
Quick MDS Check
A preliminary screening to gauge whether your proposed barn site may meet MDS II requirements.
PRELIMINARY RESULT
Likely workable: 100–250 m
PRELIMINARY RESULT
Moderately constrained: 250-500m
PRELIMINARY RESULT
Likely constrained: 500m+
These ranges are preliminary screening estimates only. Actual MDS II setbacks must be calculated using the official Ontario MDS formula and site-specific inputs.
Need a more accurate estimate?
Quick Site Screening
Before you invest in detailed plans, it's worth doing a quick check to see if your proposed barn location is likely to work. Here are the key factors to consider:
Distance from Neighbours
Is your proposed site far enough from neighbouring houses and other sensitive land uses? MDS II calculations will determine the exact distance required, but generally, more distance is better.
Distance from Wells
Check the distance from your proposed barn and manure storage to any wells (both your own and neighbouring properties). Minimum setbacks apply and vary by well type.
Distance from Watercourses
Are there any creeks, rivers, drainage ditches, or other watercourses near your proposed site? Required setbacks must be maintained.
Zoning and Land Use
Is the land zoned for agricultural use? Are there any restrictive covenants or land use designations that could affect your plans?
Take It Further
Calculate Nutrient Units
Estimate livestock nutrient units to help determine whether NMS or NMP requirements may be triggered.
Use the Advanced MDS Calculator
Estimate detailed MDS-related setback planning for livestock barns and manure storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an NMS to build a barn in Ontario?
What are nutrient units and how does this relate to livestock?
When do I need both an NMS and an NMP?
How long does approval of a NMS or NMP take?