Moving to
Kawartha Lakes

Your first week is all about getting the official boxes ticked so everything else falls into place. These tasks are time-sensitive and will make your life much easier once completed.

• Update your address with Service OntarioVisit serviceontario.ca or a local ServiceOntario centre in Lindsay to update your driver's licence and health card address.
• Transfer your Ontario Health CardIf moving from outside Ontario, apply for OHIP immediately — there is a 3-month waiting period for new residents.
• Update your vehicle registrationYour vehicle permit address must be updated within 6 days of moving. Done online at serviceontario.ca or in person at 322 Kent St W, Lindsay.
• Set up utilities — hydro, gas, waterHydro One serves most of Kawartha Lakes. Contact them at hydroone.com. For natural gas, Enbridge Gas covers the region.
• Arrange internet and phone serviceBell, Rogers, and Cogeco all serve the Kawartha Lakes area. Rural properties may have different options — ask your neighbours what they use.
• Update Canada Post with your new addressSet up mail forwarding at canadapost.ca to catch anything sent to your old address during the transition.
• Notify your bank and financial institutionsUpdate your address with your bank, investment accounts, insurance providers, and CRA (Canada Revenue Agency).

Week two is about connecting with the services that keep your household running — healthcare providers, schools for children, and learning what Kawartha Lakes City Hall can do for you.

• Find a family doctorRoss Memorial Hospital in Lindsay is the main hospital. The Health Care Connect program (ontario.ca/page/find-family-doctor-or-nurse-practitioner) helps match you with a local physician.
• Register children for schoolThe Trillium Lakelands District School Board (tldsb.on.ca) and the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board serve the region. Contact them to register.
• Find a dentist and optometristLindsay has several dental clinics and optometry practices. Ask neighbours for referrals — word of mouth is king in a small community.
• Register with the City of Kawartha LakesVisit kawarthalakes.ca to register for recreation programs, waste collection schedules, and municipal services.
• Get your waste collection scheduleThe City of Kawartha Lakes has a specific pickup schedule by area. Download the KW Waste app or visit kawarthalakes.ca/waste for your schedule.
• Locate your nearest Community Care officeCommunity Care City of Kawartha Lakes provides support services, meal programs, and social connections for residents of all ages.

By week three you should be settled enough to start enjoying your new home. This is the week to explore, connect, and discover what makes Kawartha Lakes one of Ontario's most beloved communities.

• Visit the Lindsay Farmers' MarketEvery Saturday morning at Victoria Park in Lindsay from May through October. Meet local growers, bakers, and artisans — a great way to get to know your neighbours.
• Walk the Scugog River TrailA beautiful multi-use trail running through Lindsay's core along the Scugog River. Perfect for walking, cycling, and getting your bearings in town.
• Explore downtown LindsayKent Street West is lined with independent shops, cafés, restaurants, and galleries. Make a point of walking the full length and stopping somewhere new.
• Check the events calendarVisit our Events page to see what's happening in the coming weeks — festivals, markets, outdoor activities and more across all five communities.
• Join a local Facebook community groupSearch "Kawartha Lakes Community" or your specific town name on Facebook. These groups are invaluable for local tips, recommendations, and making connections.
• Register for recreation programsThe City of Kawartha Lakes Recreation Department offers programs for all ages — swimming, fitness, seniors' activities, and children's classes at the Lindsay Recreation Complex.
• Take a day trip to Bobcaygeon or Fenelon FallsBoth are under 30 minutes from Lindsay and offer a completely different feel — waterfront, boutiques, restaurants, and the gorgeous Trent-Severn locks.

Some of the best local spots to explore in your first weeks:

By the end of your first month you should feel genuinely at home. Week four is about tying up loose ends, looking ahead, and making sure your home and lifestyle are set up for all four of Kawartha's spectacular seasons.

• Find trusted local tradespeopleVisit our Trusted Partners page for vetted local contractors, plumbers, electricians, and other professionals recommended by Trish Todd and the community.
• Prepare for winter (if moving in spring/summer)Kawartha winters are real. Make sure your furnace is serviced, your roof is in good shape, and you know where your shut-off valves are before the cold hits.
• Get a library cardKawartha Lakes Public Library membership is free for residents and includes access to digital resources, eBooks, and community programming.
• Connect with the Chamber of CommerceThe Kawartha Lakes Chamber of Commerce is a great resource for business owners and those wanting to connect with the local business community.
• Update your home insuranceMake sure your home insurance policy reflects your new address and that coverage is appropriate for the property type — especially important for waterfront and rural properties.
• Plan a visit to Kawartha HighlandsJust north of Coboconk, the Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park is one of Ontario's most beautiful wilderness areas. Plan a day hike or overnight camping trip before summer ends.
• Subscribe to KawarthaLakes.Community newsletterStay up to date with local events, real estate insights, community news, and seasonal guides delivered straight to your inbox.

Essential Kawartha Lakes Numbers & Links

Save these contacts — you'll use them in your first month and beyond.