The Essa Update – October 2026
2026 Municipal & School Board Election
Economic Strategic Plan Update!
On October 6, 2026, the Township of Essa, in partnership with McSweeney & Associates, held a series of focus groups with stakeholders from across the community. These sessions provided an opportunity for local businesses and agencies to share their experiences, perspectives, and insights on what it means to operate in Essa.
The discussions focused on identifying the Township’s existing strengths and opportunities, as well as the challenges and barriers businesses may face. Feedback gathered from participants will help build a better understanding of the local business environment, including the factors that support business success, areas for improvement, and opportunities to encourage future investment and economic growth. Following the success of the focus groups there will be a working session in November.
The Township would like to thank all participants for taking the time to share their valuable feedback and contribute to shaping the community’s economic future.
The online survey is open until October 16, 2026. To complete the Survey: Click Here
Ice Birthday Parties are Available Now!
Make your next birthday one to remember with an Ice Birthday Party at the Township of Essa! Bookings are now open at the Angus Recreation Centre and Thornton Community Centre from September through March.
Choose from:
⛸️ Public Skate Party - $200 + HST
🏒 Private Skate Party - $300 + HST (pending ice and facility availability)
📧 Questions? Contact parksandrec@essatownship.on.ca
Go Paperless with E-Billing
Receive your property tax and water bills directly to your email — faster, easier, and environmentally friendly!
To enroll, complete the Online Paperless Billing Form.
Please note: Once enrolled, you will no longer receive paper bills. All account holders are responsible for ensuring payment by the due date to avoid penalties.
Make Payments Easy with Pre-Authorized Payments
Simplify your payments and avoid missing due dates by signing up for pre-authorized payments:
Water & Sewer: Automatic withdrawal of your exact quarterly bill amount on the due date.
Property Taxes: Automatic withdrawals applied directly to your property tax balance.
Stay Informed: Township By-Laws
Residents are reminded to stay informed about Township by-laws, including those related to property standards, Parking, Canine Control and more.
To review all applicable by-laws, please visit: https://www.essatownship.on.ca/council-administration/by-laws/.
If you observe a possible violation, you may submit a report using our online Reporting Tool.
Please note that the Township of Essa does not investigate anonymous complaints.
Marriage Licences & Civil Ceremonies
Planning to get married? The Township of Essa makes the process easier with online application submissions and appointment bookings.
- Submit your Marriage Licence application online.
- Book your Marriage Licence appointment online.
Visit the Township’s Marriage Licences & Civil Ceremonies webpage for details and to get started:
https://www.essatownship.on.ca/council-administration/licences-and-permits/marriage-licenses-civil-ceremonies/
2026 Tax Installment Dates
- Final Installment - November 25, 2026
Water & Sewer Invoice / Due Date Schedule
| Utility Billing Period | Utility Due Date |
| July 1 to September 30, 2026 | October 31, 2026 |
| October 1 to December 31, 2026 | January 31, 2027 |
Essa Public Library
Want to make sure you don’t miss a thing? Sign up for e-newsletters at essalibrary.ca
Parking Updates
Please be advised that Winter Parking Restrictions are in effect, November 1st to May 1st each year. During this period, vehicles are not permitted to be parked on the roads, over a sidewalk or on any municipal boulevard, even if there is no snow. Violators may be ticketed or towed.
For More information, Visit: Parking - Essa Township
Report an Issue: Please be advised that the Township of Essa does not investigate anonymous complaints.
Have questions or need assistance? We’re here to help!
Township of Essa
5786 County Road 21, Utopia, ON L0M 1T0
📞 Phone: 705-424-9917
Stay connected by following us on our official social media channels and visiting our website for the latest updates, programs, and notices.