Notice: Revised Residential Property Standards Bylaw Enacted
On December 2, Council approved extensive revisions to the Residential Property Standards By-Law.
The changes improve clarity, modernize outdated provisions and ensure the City can effectively enforce minimum property standards.
Key revisions include:
- Updated and new definitions (Section 2).
- Clearer duties for property owners and occupants (Sections 4–5).
- Revised standards for cleanliness, garbage storage, sewage and drainage (Sections 6–15).
- Updated requirements for property appearance, including grass, fences, driveways and accessory buildings (Sections 16–25).
- A new minimum standard for structural soundness (Section 26).
- Updated and expanded requirements for smoke and carbon monoxide alarms (Section 31).
- Removal of the unenforceable “good workmanship” standard (formerly Section 34).
- New provisions for heat pumps (Section 36).
- Modernized electrical and plumbing language (Sections 42–43).
- Adoption of national building, plumbing and related codes for enforcement (Section 44).
- Updated standards for vacant properties, aligned with the Commercial Maintenance Bylaw (Section 45).
- Clarified inspection processes, deficiency notices and penalties (Sections 46–48).
A copy of the by-law can be found in the December 2 Meeting Agenda.
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