Blog: City News

Property Standards Blitz Planned this May

City Council has asked enforcement staff to take a proactive approach to making sure property owners are following the City’s property standards and cleaning and clearing of land by-laws. The request comes after a discussion during the March 18 council meeting about boarded up buildings and exterior property maintenance, and how the City is working to ensure cleanliness and sanitation of the community.

During the month of May, the City will be focusing on the enforcement of By-Law 2007-6489, which provides standards for the maintenance and physical condition of properties, including buildings and structures, and By-Law 2008-6599, which provides specific direction on clearing refuse and debris from the land.

“Both by-laws work together to address maintenance standards for buildings, yards, accessory structures, lawns, and more,” says Steph Palmateer, Director of Community Services and City Clerk. “Property owners can help ensure that the community remains safe, healthy, and attractive by adhering to both by-laws and respecting how the condition of their property impacts the city as a whole.

Palmateer also notes that the by-laws not only help protect public safety, but support property values and promote clean communities. It is the responsibility of the property owner to make sure they are informed and in compliance with each by-law.

Enforcement Services will begin reviewing properties in May, with a two-week blitz planned between May 12 and May 23, 2025 to proactively contact and work with property owners to address any relevant concerns. This could include proper disposal of garbage, pet waste, objects or exterior building conditions that could pose a fire or accident hazard, long grass or overgrown trees, and security of vacant buildings. The proposed dates do depend on how quickly the snow melts.

“Our enforcement officers will be focusing on exterior property conditions,” adds Palmateer. “Their work will support the City’s planned clean up initiatives, which should make cleaning and clearing yards for property owners a bit easier. Residential bulk item collection and one free load of waste with waived tipping fees at the Deloro Landfill, means that owners can also be proactive and make sure their property complies before the blitz starts. We’re not looking to target a specific area in town. We’re looking to inform and confirm that municipal by-laws are being followed.”

For more information on property standards and the cleaning and clearing of land, visit: https://www.timmins.ca/our_services/enforcement_services_and_parking/property_standards.

Posted by Amanda Dyer On 4/22/2025 at 12:08 PM