The provincial government has announced a two year freeze on cottage fees.

Sustainable Development Minister Cathy Cox promised Wednesday a two year freeze on the increase to service fees and crown land rental fees for cottages in provincial parks. Cottage fees cover a variety of services including garbage disposal, water and waste water and road maintenance.

"We believe cottage owners are prepared to pay their fair share and we want to take the time to develop a fee system that more accurately and transparently reflects service costs," says Cox.

She adds cottage owners and associations will be consulted and their input will help shape any future changes. Rent is based on a percentage of appraised land values.

With the moratorium in place, cottagers in provincial parks will pay the same fees in 2017 and 2018 as they did in 2016.