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1. How do I make a bylaw complaint?

You can phone the Bylaw, Licensing & Community Safety Department at 604-467-7305 Monday - Saturday, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm. Or you can email your complaint to the Bylaw, Licensing & Community Safety Department. There is a limit of three non-recurring complaints per complainant property, per calendar year.

Please note that in order to file a complaint, you must provide your name, address and phone number. We do not accept anonymous complaints and all complainant information remains confidential (unless matters proceed to Court or Council - at which time you have the option of withdrawing your complaint).

2. How does the City respond to complaints?

Bylaw Compliance Officers will investigate your complaint as soon as possible. You are encouraged to keep your complaint file up to date and to keep the Bylaw Compliance Officer apprised of the status of your complaint if the situation improves, worsens or stays the same.

If there is a contravention of City bylaws, Bylaw Compliance Officers will work with the person responsible to voluntarily remedy the situation.

In relation to certain hazardous situations or declared nuisances, City Council may order a person to rectify the situation, or take action to eliminate the hazard or damage and require the person to pay the costs incurred to do so. Where compliance with a bylaw is a condition of a licence or permit, Bylaw Compliance Officers may find it necessary to suspend the licence or permit until the person or persons comply.

The City appreciates your patience in bylaw enforcement matters.

3. Can I keep chickens on a residential property?

This is an agricultural use permitted on a property .4 ha (1 acre) or more. This is permitted on lands zoned RS-1 and RS-2 if they are designated Agricultural Land Reserve. Otherwise, the designation required is RS-3, A-1, A-2, and A-3. For more information on property zones, please contact our Planning Department at 604-467-7341.

4. Are stereo music and other similar noise covered by the Noise Bylaw?

Yes our Noise Control Bylaw is in effect 24 hours. Noise Control Bylaw

5. When is construction noise exempted from the Noise Bylaw?

Construction noise is exempt Monday to Saturday, 7:00 am to 9:00 pm. There is no commercial construction permitted on Sunday and statutory holidays. Noise Control Bylaw

6. Can I cut the trees overhanging my property line?

This is not covered by any of our bylaws. Instead, this is a civil matter. Provided you are certain where the common property lies, you may cut back to that line. If you are not sure, you will want to research the boundaries prior to taking action. Depending on the time of year trimming can have a negative impact on plants, shrubs and trees and you may want to consult your local garden center or an arborist for direction. In all cases, it is advisable to notify your neighbour of any action you will be taking prior to commencing cutting.

7. Can my neighbour park in front of my house?

Yes, the streets are for anyone to park their vehicle. However, if there is a sign restricting or prohibiting parking, a fire hydrant, a yellow line or less than 3 metres distance from a driveway, parking would not be permitted. For more information on parking rules and regulations, please review our Highway and Traffic Bylaw

8. A complaint has been made against me and / or my property, how can I get a copy of the complaint?

You must complete a Freedom of Information (FOI) form and submit it to our Legal & Legislative Services Department. FOI forms are available online or in person at the main reception desk.