SARM welcomes PDAP enhancements

July 16, 2026

Media Release, Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities

Key points from this story:

• SARM welcomes changes to PDAP
• Regulations align with federal DFAA
• Maximum assistance $500,000 for individuals
• Small businesses eligible up to $3 million
• Compensation based on replacement value
• Up to 25% funding for risk reduction

Over the past several months, SARM has heard directly from member RMs about the significant hardships caused by this year's flooding, including damage to municipal infrastructure, growing financial pressures, and impacts on residents and local businesses.

The updated regulations align more closely with the federal Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA) and introduce changes that will better support rural municipalities (RMs), residents, and businesses affected by natural disasters. SARM is optimistic that these enhancements will help address many of the concerns raised by members about accessing timely, predictable support.

"These improvements are an important step toward making sure RMs and their residents can count on more responsive, predictable assistance when they need it most," said SARM President Bill Huber. "SARM has been hearing from councils across the province about the challenges they are facing after this year's flooding, and we appreciate the Province's efforts to improve the program in ways that will better support rural Saskatchewan."

Among the key enhancements:

Increased financial support, including raising maximum assistance to $500,000 for individuals and $3 million for small businesses. A shift to compensation based on standard replacement value rather than depreciated value. A new municipal incentive that allows local authorities to lower their deductible by meeting emergency management and preparedness criteria. Improved access for municipalities, including streamlined processes during large-scale events and the ability for the Province to designate affected areas without formal requests.

The changes also introduce new measures to support mitigation and resilience, allowing eligible repairs to include upgrades that meet current standards and providing additional funding--up to 25 percent of a claim--for approved risk reduction projects.

"SARM is encouraged by the focus on mitigation and resilience," added Bill Huber. "Our members have made it clear that repeated flooding is taking a toll on local infrastructure and budgets. Supporting proactive measures will help reduce future disaster impacts and strengthen our rural municipalities."

More information can be found at: https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/news-and-media/2026/july/16/pdap-regulations-increasing-assistance-and-expanding-eligibility-for-claimants