What are the rules on junk, derelict cars, and unsightly property?
In the City of Cambridge, Ontario, property maintenance rules are set by Lot Maintenance By-law 26-022 and 1 other bylaw, verified 2026-10-18. Enforcement: Officer may order discontinuance or remedial work; if not done, City may do work at person's expense and recover costs by action or tax roll, with lien.
Lot Maintenance By-law 26-022
adopted bylaw
standards
Refuse in yards; overgrown turf/weeds over 20 cm; littering/dumping; stagnant water; unfilled excavations; graffiti; pests; unsanitary pools; inadequate ground cover.
s. 2.2; s. 3.1; s. 4.1; s. 5.1; s. 6.1; s. 9.1; s. 10.1; s. 11.1; s. 13.1
enforcement
Officer may order discontinuance or remedial work; if not done, City may do work at person's expense and recover costs by action or tax roll, with lien.
s. 15.1; s. 15.4; s. 15.9; s. 15.10
scout note
Regulates grass/weed height, debris and general lot upkeep on vacant and occupied lots; companion bylaw to Property Standards, also refreshed in 2026.
Property Standards By-law 26-021
adopted bylaw
standards
Exterior property areas must be free of dead/decayed/damaged/hazardous trees, bushes, hedges; dilapidated or collapsed buildings/structures; unprotected wells; and Unsafe Conditions.
s. 4.15
enforcement
If a Person fails to comply with an order, the City may do the matter at the Person's expense and recover costs by action or tax roll.
s. 10.1
scout note
Sets minimum property maintenance standards for buildings and lands to address unsightly/dangerous premises; recently updated in 2026 after public consultation.