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TOWN OF COLLINGWOOD
June 13, 2016 NO. 16
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BE IT RESOLVED:
THAT By-law No. 2016-040, being a by-law to prescribe standards for the maintenance and
occupancy of property within the Town of Collingwood and for prohibiting the occupancy or
use of such property that does not conform with the standards contained herein, be enacted
and passed this 13" day of June, 2016.
i CARRIED
DEFEATED [1] RECORDED voTE
TABLED Moved by:
Seconded by: COUNCIL Yea | Nay
Deferred Until: Cooper
Saunderson
Fryer
Edwards
Se Ecclestone
— Jeffery
Wy : — > Doherty
CLERK j = Madigan
Lloyd
TOTAL
BY-LAW No. 2016-040
OF THE
CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF COLLINGWOOD
BEING A BY-LAW TO PRESCRIBE STANDARDS FOR THE MAINTENANCE
AND OCCUPANCY OF PROPERTY WITHIN THE TOWN OF COLLINGWOOD
AND FOR PROHIBITING THE OCCUPANCY OR USE OF SUCH PROPERTY
THAT DOES NOT CONFORM WITH THE STANDARDS CONTAINED HEREIN
WHEREAS the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Collingwood has in effect, an
official plan enacted pursuant to the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. P.13, as amended, that
includes provisions relating to the maintenance and occupancy of property within the Town
of Collingwood;
AND WHEREAS Section 15.1(3) of the Building Code Act 1992, S.O. 1992, c. 23 as
amended, provides that a by-law may be passed by the Council of a Municipality which has
an Official Plan in effect that includes provisions relating to property, to prohibit the
occupancy or use of property that does not conform with the standards and to require
property that does not conform with standards or the site be cleared of all buildings,
structures, debris or refuse and left in a graded and leveled condition;
AND WHEREAS Section 15.6(1) of the Building Code Act 1992, S.O. 1992, c. 23 as
amended, provides for the establishment of a Property Standards Committee;
AND WHEREAS Section 391 of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c. 25 as amended,
provides a municipality may pass by-laws imposing fees or charges on any class of persons
for services or activities provided or done by or on behalf of it;
AND WHEREAS Section 35.3 of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. 0.18 as
amended, provides that Council may, by by-law, prescribe minimum standards for the
maintenance of the heritage attributes of property that has been designated by the
municipality or the Minister; and require property that has been designated and that does
not comply with the standards to be repaired and maintained to conform with the standards;
AND WHEREAS Section 45.1 of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. 0.18 as
amended, provides that Council may, by by-law, prescribe minimum standards for the
maintenance of the heritage attributes of property situated in a designated heritage
conservation district; and require property situated in a designated heritage conservation
district that does not comply with the standards to be repaired and maintained to conform
with the standards.
NOW THEREFORE THE COUNCIL OF THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF
COLLINGWOOD ENACTS AS FOLLOWS:
1 SHORT TITLE
This by-law shall be known as the “Property Standards By-law’.
2 DEFINITIONS
For the purpose of this by-law:
The definitions contained within the Building Code shall apply in the interpretation of this by-
law except where they are inconsistent with the definitions contained in this by-law, in which
case the definition in this by-law shall apply.
Definitions of words and phrases used in this by-law that are not included in the list of
definitions in Part 2 of this by-law shall have the meaning that are commonly assigned to
them in the context in which they are used, taking into account the specialized terms by the
various trades and professions to which the terminology applies.
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“accessory building” shall mean any subordinate building or structure which is
separate from or attached to the main building on the same lot and subordinate to a
principle use of a building or structure, is not used for human habitation, is located on
the same lot and may, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, include a private
garage, private greenhouses, patios, carports, boat houses, solar collectors, garbage
bin enclosures, raised play structures and gazebos;
“appliances” include a fridge, stove, dishwasher, clothing washer or dryer;
“bathroom” shall mean a room containing a bath tub or shower with or without a water
closet and lavatory;
“boat” means any personal watercraft or similar vessel that is designed and intended to
permit the operator the ability to travel upon the surface of water;
“building” means a structure occupying an area greater than ten square metres
consisting of a wall, roof and floor or any of them or a structural system serving the
function thereof including all plumbing, works, fixtures and service systems appurtenant
thereto, a structure occupying an area of ten square metres or less that contains
plumbing, including the plumbing appurtenant thereto, plumbing not located in a
structure, a sewage system, or structures designated in the building code;
“Building Code” means the regulations made under Section 34 of the Building Code
Act, 1992, S.O. 1992, c. 23, as amended;
“Building Code Act” means the Building Code Act, 1992, S.O. 1992, c. 23, as
amended;
“Chief Building Official” means the Chief Building Official of the Town of Collingwood
or authorized representative;
“Chief Fire Official” means the assistant to the Fire Marshal who is the Municipal Fire
Chief or a member or members of the fire department appointed by the Municipal Fire
Chief under Article 1.1.1.2. of Division C or a person appointed by the Fire Marshal
under Article 1.1.1.1. of Division C;
“commercial container” means a receptacle:
a. used for the storage and collection of garbage, refuse and trade waste; and
b. designed to permit it being emptied by a forklift packer vehicle:
“Council” shall mean the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Collingwood;
“derelict vehicle” means a vehicle, trailer, motorized snow vehicle, off-road vehicle,
boat or any other recreational vehicle that:
a. is inoperative by reason of removed wheels, motor, transmission or other parts
or equipment necessary for its operation;
b. is not in roadworthy condition;
c. is in a wrecked, dismantled, discarded, inoperative or abandoned condition;
d. is in a state of disrepair or unsightly by reason of missing doors, glass or body
parts, or
e. has broken or missing parts of such sufficiency so as to render it incapable of
being licensed to operate, where such licensing is necessary.
“dwelling” means a building or structure, or any part of it, occupied or capable of being
occupied, in part, for the purpose of human habitation and includes a dwelling unit and a
building that would be used for this purpose except for its state of disrepair;
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“fence” means a barrier erected or grown dividing two or more lot lines, which marks or
substantially marks the boundary of a property, and includes any hedge or grouping of
shrubs used for the same purpose;
“grade” means the average level of proposed or finished ground adjoining a building at
all exterior walls or, if no building exists, the average level of finished ground of adjacent
property;
“graffiti” means one or more letters, symbols, etchings, figures, inscriptions, stains
howsoever made or otherwise affixed to a property or other markings that disfigure or
deface a property but does not include a sign permitted in accordance with By-law No.
2012-110;
“ground cover” means organic or non-organic material applied in a manner to prevent
the erosion of soil, including but not limited to, concrete, flagstone, asphalt, interlocking
stone, grass or other forms of landscaping;
“habitable room” means any room used or intended to be used for living, sleeping,
cooking or eating purposes and without limiting the foregoing shall include den, library,
sewing room, sunroom or recreational room or any combination thereof;
“handrail” means the railing along the edge of stairs;
“hazard” means any condition that poses or constitutes an undue or unreasonable
hazard or risk to life, limb or health of any person;
“heritage attribute” means, in relation to real property, and to the buildings on the real
property, an attribute of the property, building or structure that contributes to its cultural
heritage value or interest and that is defined or described:
a. in a by-law designating a property passed under section 29, Part IV, of the
Ontario Heritage Act and identified as a heritage attribute, reason for designation
or otherwise;
b. in a Minister's order made under section 34.5, Part IV, of the Ontario Heritage
Act and identified as a heritage attribute or otherwise;
c. in a by-law designating a heritage conservation district passed under section 41,
Part V, of the Ontario Heritage Act and identified as a heritage attribute or
otherwise; or
d. in the supporting documentation required for a by-law designating a heritage
conservation district, including but not limited to a heritage conservation district
plan, assessment or inventory, and identified as heritage attributes or otherwise.
e. The elements, features or building components including, roofs, walls, floors,
retaining walls, foundations and independent interior structures and structural
systems that hold up, support or protect the heritage values and attributes and
without which the heritage values and attributes may be at risk.
“injurious insect” means any insect that has or that is likely to have an adverse effect
on the health of any person or any insect that is capable of causing structural damage to
a building or structure, including termites and carpenter ants;
“maintain” shall mean the preservation and keeping in good repair. Maintenance and
maintained shall have the same meaning;
“Medical Officer of Health” shall mean the Medical Officer of Health for the Simcoe
Muskoka District Health Unit;
“multiple dwelling” means a building containing two (2) or more dwelling units;
“natural garden” shall mean a defined area of vegetation that has been deliberately
planted or cultivated with species of wildflowers, shrubs, perennials, ornamental grasses
or combinations of them, consistent with a managed and natural landscape;
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“naturalized property” means property that is owned by the Town of Collingwood,
County of Simcoe, the Provincial or Federal Government or Nottawasaga Valley
Conservation Authority that is left in a naturalized condition for the purposes of
recreation or to protect the surrounding environment or any woodland as defined in the
Town's Tree Protection By-law;
“non-habitable room” shall mean any room in a dwelling other than a habitable room,
and includes a bathroom, washroom, laundry, pantry, lobby, communicating corridor,
stairway, closet, crawl space, furnace room or other space for service and maintenance
of the dwelling for public use, and for access to, and vertical travel between storeys;
“non-residential property” shall mean a building or structure not occupied or capable
of being occupied in whole or in part for residential occupancy and includes the lands
and premises appurtenant thereto;
“nuisance” means the use of land or building that creates, or is likely to create,
destructive, offensive or unhealthy gas or fumes, dust, odour, noise, vibrations; or the
unsightly storage of goods, wares, salvage or machinery parts, junk, waste or other
material in such a manner that such may become hazardous or injurious with respect to
the health and safety; or otherwise prejudices the character of the surrounding area or
interferes with the normal enjoyment or any use of activity in respect of land or building;
“occupant” means any person or persons over the age of eighteen (18) years in
possession of the property;
“owner” includes, the person for the time being managing or receiving the rent of the
land or premises in connection with which the word is used, whether on the person’s
own account or as agent or trustee of any other person, or who would receive the rent if
the land and premises were let; and the lessee or occupant of the property who, under
the terms of a lease, is required to repair and maintain the property in accordance with
the standards for maintenance and occupancy of property;
“Part IV Heritage Property” shall mean real property including all buildings and
structures thereon that has been designated by the Town under section 29 or by the
Minister under section 34.5 of the Ontario Heritage Act;
“Part V Heritage Property” shall mean real property, including all buildings and
structures thereon, located within a conservation district that has been designated by
the Town under section 41 of the Ontario Heritage Act;
“person” means any human being, association, firm, partnership, incorporated
company, corporation, agent or trustee, and the heirs, executors or other legal
representatives of a person to whom the context can apply according to law;
“powder room” means a room, which includes a minimum of one (1) water closet and
one (1) wash basin, which are connected to the plumbing system;
“property” means a building or structure or part of a building, or structure and includes
the lands and premises appurtenant thereto and all mobile homes, mobile buildings,
mobile structures, outbuildings, fences and erections thereon whether theretofore or
hereafter erected, and includes vacant lands, Part IV Heritage Properties, Part V
Heritage Properties, non-residential and residential properties;
“Property Standards Committee” shall mean the Property Standards Committee
established pursuant to Section 15.6 of the Building Code Act;
“Property Standards Officer” shall mean a Property Standards Officer who has been
assigned the responsibility of administering and enforcing by-laws passed under Section
15.1 of the Building Code Act;
“receptacle” means a solid metal or plastic container for receiving garbage or refuse;
“refuse or debris” includes garbage of any kind and, without limiting the generality of
the foregoing, includes rubbish, inoperative vehicles and mechanical equipment,
automotive and mechanical parts, appliances, furnaces, heater or fuel tanks, furniture,
table waste, paper, cartons, crockery, glassware, cans, garden refuse, earth or rock fill,
material from construction or demolition projects and old clothing;
“repair” includes the provision of facilities, the making of additions or alterations or the
taking of other action that may be required to ensure that a property conforms with the
standards established in this by-law;
“residential property” means any property that is designated for use, is used or is
capable of being used as a dwelling or group of dwelling and includes any land or
buildings that are appurtenant to such establishment including but not limited to all
steps, walks, driveways, parking spaces and yards;
“retaining wall” means a structure which supports and confines a mass of earth or
water where there is a change in ground elevation;
“sign” means any visual medium, including its copy, structure and other component
parts, which is used or capable of being used to attract attention to a specific subject
matter, other than itself, for identification, information, advertising, service, activity,
person, business, or product of the business property on which it is located;
“standards” shall mean standards of physical condition and of occupancy prescribed
for property in this by-law;
“structure” includes but is not limited to play structures, sheds, gazebos and
skateboard ramps;
“suite” means a single room or series of rooms of complementary use operated under
a single tenancy;
“swimming pool” means a privately owned outdoor pool of water for swimming,
bathing, wading, or reflecting which is capable of retaining a water depth equal to or
greater than 460 mm (18”) at any point, but shall not include facilities for the purposes of
providing water to livestock or for irrigation of crops which are associated with and
located on land devoted to the practice of farming;
“Town” means the Corporation of the Town of Collingwood;
“vacant building” means a building that is unoccupied, displays some visible signs of
deterioration, is or should be boarded up, and does not include an agricultural building
or a building already approved for demolition;
“vacant land” means lands with no buildings and not devoted to the practice of
farming;
“vehicle” includes a motor vehicle, trailer, boat, motorized snow vehicle, mechanical
equipment and any vehicle drawn, propelled or driven by any kind of power, including
muscular power;
“vermin” means a mammai, bird or insect injurious to humans, game or crops including
but not limited to foxes, rats, mice, moles, owls, weasels, ants, cockroaches, silverfish,
fleas, bugs, bedbugs or lice;
“washroom” means a room containing one or more water closets or one or more
lavatories and may include other sanitary fixtures;
“yard” means the land, other than publicly owned land, around and appurtenant to the
building and used, intended or capable of being used in connection with the building.
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3
INTERPRETATION
3.1 In this by-law statutory references are to statutes of Ontario and the regulations made
thereunder and shall be deemed to refer to such statutes and regulations as
amended, consolidated, re-enacted and in force from time to time.
3.2 In this by-law the numbering system shall be referenced in accordance with the
following:
1 Part
1.1 Section
1.1.1 Subsection
1.1.1.1 Article
3.3 In this by-law, a word interpreted in the singular number has a corresponding meaning
when used in the plural.
3.4 This by-law includes the schedules annexed hereto and the schedules are hereby
declared to form part of this by-law.
3.5 The words “include”, “includes” or “including” are not to be read or interpreted as
limiting the words, phrases or descriptions that follow them.
3.6 Dimensions specified in metric units shall be the official dimensions.
3.7 In this by-law, the word “metre” shall be represented by the abbreviation “m’, the word
“centimeter” shall be represented by the abbreviation “cm”, and the word “millimeter”
shall be represented by the abbreviation “mm”.
4 APPLICATION
4.1 Every owner of property situated within the Town of Collingwood shall maintain such
property to the applicable minimum standards prescribed by this by-law.
4.2 The Property Standards set forth in Part 5 of this by-law are hereby prescribed as the
general minimum standards for the maintenance and occupancy of property. Part 5
applies to all properties in the Town of Collingwood, regardless of property type or
use.
4.3 In addition to the maintenance standards prescribed in Part 5 of this by-law, the
standards set forth in Part 6 of this by-law are hereby prescribed as the maintenance
and occupancy standards to be applied specifically to all residential properties in the
Town of Collingwood.
4.4 In addition to the maintenance standards prescribed in Parts 5 and 6 of this by-law,
the standards set forth in Part 7 of this by-law are hereby prescribed as the
maintenance and occupancy standards to be applied specifically to all heritage
properties in the Town of Collingwood.
4.5 Where references are made in this by-law to the Building Code and requirements or
provisions therein, the regulation established in this by-law shall require conformance
to the standard as set out in the Building Code for new construction as of the date of
any action taken by the Town to enforce or administer this by-law, despite the age or
installation date of the item being regulated.
4.6 Any provincial or federal regulation that imposes a higher maintenance standard shall
supersede this by-law.
4.7 The by-law does not apply so as to prevent a farm, meeting the definition of
“agricultural operation” under the Farming and Food Production Protection Act, 1998,
S.O. 1998, c.1, from carrying out a normal farm practice.
5 GENERAL STANDARDS FOR ALL PROPERTIES
5.1
5.1.1
5.1.2
5.1.3
5.1.6
5.1.7
MAINTENANCE OF YARDS AND VACANT LAND
All yards and vacant land shall be maintained in a neat and tidy condition so as not
to present a hazard to any person.
Without limiting the generality of subsection 5.1.1, every yard and vacant land shall
be kept clean and free from:
a) noxious weeds as defined in the regulations to the Weed Control Act or any
other weed as may be defined in a by-law of the Town;
b) long grass or weeds in excess of fifteen 15 cm (6”);
c) rubbish or debris;
d) derelict vehicles;
e) dead shrubs;
f) injurious insects, termites, rodents, vermin and other pests;
g) dilapidated, collapsed, unsafe or unsecured structures; and
h) objects or conditions that may create a health or accident hazard.
Subsection 5.1.2 (b) of this by-law does not apply to:
a) natural gardens;
b) naturalized property;
c) Town owned property; and
d) land more than 100 meters in any direction from any land that is developed.
Subsection 5.1.2 (d) of this by-law does not apply to the owner of a property when
any wrecked, discarded, dismantled, partially dismantled or abandoned machinery,
motor, vehicles, recreational vehicles, trailers, mobile home or other chattels or parts
thereof are on a property where they are required and used for a lawful business
purpose in accordance with the Town’s Zoning By-laws and any other applicable
legislation.
A tree or other plant, or limb or branch of it, that is dead, diseased, decayed or
damaged shall be removed from the property or otherwise pruned to remove the
dead, diseased, dying or dangerous portions of the tree or plant so as to prevent a
hazard or damage to any property.
All hedges, shrubs, trees or other plants located in a yard or vacant land shall be
planted and maintained in a manner that, at the discretion of the Town, does not:
a) adversely affect the safety of the public;
b) adversely affect the safety of vehicular or pedestrian traffic;
c) constitute an obstruction of view for vehicular or pedestrian traffic; or
d) wholly or partially conceal or interfere with the use of any hydrant or water
valves.
A yard shall be protected by ground cover, which prevents the erosion of the soil.
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5.1.8
5.1.10
5.1.11
5.1.12
5.1.13
5.2
5.2.1
5.2.2
5.2.3
5.3
5.3.1
No machinery or parts thereof, or other object, or material, not associated with the
normal occupancy and use of a property, including among other things, appliances,
fixtures, paper, cartons, boxes, or building materials such as lumber, masonry
material or glass, other than that intended for immediate use on the property, shall
be stored or allowed to remain in any yard or vacant land.
Despite the requirements of subsection 5.1.8 temporary storage of materials or
refuse resulting solely from the construction, demolition or alteration of a building or
part thereof may be placed on the property, provided that:
a) it is removed frequently and in its entirety from the property;
b) it will not cause risk to the health or safety of any persons; and
c) itis not stored in an unsightly manner.
Nothing in subsection 5.1.9 shall be deemed to prevent the lawful storage and
keeping of material in or on any non-residential property, if a lawful use requiring
that material is conducted on the property and the materials are stored in a neat and
orderly fashion.
Any furniture that is used outdoors on any property shall be:
a) kept in a clean, neat and tidy condition; and
b) maintained in good repair.
Where landscaping, parking areas, walkways, steps, hedges, trees, fences, curbs,
or similar changes to a property have been required by the Town as a condition of
development or redevelopment, such works shall be repaired and maintained so as
to ensure continuous compliance with the Town requirements.
Every owner of property on which a clothing drop box or other similar container is
used or located shall ensure that the clothing drop box is clean, in good repair and is
free of graffiti, and shall ensure that all areas immediately adjacent to the clothing
drop box are clean and free of litter, refuse and other debris.
WELL, PIT, EXCAVATION ETC.
Any well, cistern, cesspool, privy vault, pit or excavation shall be filled in and the
property left in a graded and levelled condition, unless it is in active use in which
event it shall be secured by fencing and warning signs until the use has ceased,
where upon they shall be filled and graded as required.
A property that has not, in the opinion of the Property Standards Officer, been
developed or redeveloped within a reasonable timeframe or has been suspended or
discontinued for a period of more than two years shall have any pit or excavation
filled in and the property left in a graded and levelled condition until such time that
the development or redevelopment resumes.
Every yard and vacant land shall be graded in a manner satisfactory to the Property
Standards Officer to prevent the mounding of earth, dirt, rubble or ponding of water.
FILL
No fill shall be allowed to remain in an unlevelled state on any property for longer
than thirty (30) days, unless the property is:
a) aconsiruction site for which a building permit is in effect;
b) a property under pre-service agreement with the Town;
c) under a fill permit from the Town of Collingwood or other authority having
jurisdiction including future development phases;
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d) property upon which material is being stored with the approval of the Director
of Public Works and Engineering of the Town of Collingwood in connection
with a public works project; or
e) under any other similar agreement or permit with the Town of Collingwood.
5.3.2 No fill shall be left in an uncovered state (not covered by sod, seed, agricultural crop
or other ground cover) on any property for longer than sixty (60) days unless the
property is:
a) aconstruction site for which a building permit is in effect;
b) a property under pre-service agreement with the Town;
c) under a fill permit from the Town of Collingwood or other authority having
jurisdiction including future development phases;
d) property upon which material is being stored with the approval of the Director
of Public Works and Engineering of the Town of Collingwood in connection
with a public works project; or
e) under any other similar agreement or permit with the Town of Collingwood.
5.4 BUFFERING
5.4.1 Commercial or industrial zoned properties that because of its use, occupancy or
other reasons, creates a nuisance to other properties in the neighbourhood shall be
buffered from these properties so as to minimize the effect of the nuisance by the
provision and maintenance of:
a) a barrier or deflectors to prevent lighting and vehicle headlights from shining
directly into a dwelling;
b) a barrier to prevent wind-blown waste, wrappings, debris and similar things
from littering or settling on adjacent properties;
c) a visual screen or fence, of uniform construction and appropriate to the nature
of the adjacent use, to minimize the visual impact of nuisances to persons at
grade on adjacent properties or a public highway; and
d) the provision and maintenance of a barrier of sufficient size and strength to
prevent the dumping of debris or refuse in yards or vacant property.
5.5 SWIMMING POOLS, HOT TUBS, PONDS
5.5.1 All outdoor swimming pools, hot tubs, wading pools and artificial ponds, including all
accessories and appurtenances thereto shall be:
a) maintained in good repair, free from leaks and safe from health and safety
hazards; and
b) drained and removed or filled in and the property left in a graded and levelled
condition if they are abandoned, derelict or otherwise unused for the purpose
for which it was originally designed.
5.5.2 Every owner of a property that contains an outdoor swimming pool shall install and
maintain all fences, gates and hardware as may be required by the provisions of the
Town of Collingwood Pool Fence By-law or any other applicable government
regulation or by-law.
5.5.3 Subsection 5.5.1 does not apply to swimming pools regulated under the Public
Pools Regulation 565, R.R.O. 1990, made under the Health Protection and
Promotion Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chap. H.7.
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5.6
5.6.1
5.6.2
5.6.3
5.6.4
5.6.5
5.6.6
5.6.7
5.7
5.7.1
5.7.2
5.8
5.8.1
5.8.2
5.9
5.9.1
5.9.2
SEWAGE AND DRAINAGE
Sanitary sewage shall be discharged into the municipal sanitary sewer where such a
system is available, and where a municipal sanitary sewer is not available, the
sewage shall be disposed of in a manner that meets the standards as set out in the
Building Code for private on-site sewage systems.
Sanitary sewage of any kind shall not be discharged on to the surface of the ground
whether into a natural or artificial drainage system or otherwise.
Every owner of a property shall ensure that the grading and drainage on the
property:
a) prevents excessive or recurrent ponding of water;
b) prevents water or moisture from penetrating or damaging a building or structure;
and
c) does not interfere with the proper functioning of a swale, ditch, culvert, catch
basin or other drainage system.
Every owner of a property shall ensure that the drainage from roofs, rainwater pipes,
sump pumps, water softeners, air conditioners, water-cooled equipment, swimming
pools, pool pumps, hot tubs, wading pools and ornamental ponds is not discharged
onto an entranceway, a walkway, a stair or staircase, a public sidewalk or
neighbouring property.
Where eavestrough, roof gutters and downspouts are installed, they shall be kept in
good repair, free from leaks, and securely fastened to the building.
Catch basins shall be kept in good repair and free of debris and obstructions, which
would prevent them from functioning properly.
Where downspouts are provided and are not connected to a sewer, extensions shall
be provided to carry rainwater away from the building in a manner that will prevent
soil erosion.
PLUMBING
All plumbing systems, drain pipes, water pipes and plumbing fixtures and every
connecting line to the sewerage system shall be maintained in good working order
and free from leaks and defects and all water pipes and appurtenances thereto shall
be protected from freezing.
All plumbing fixtures shall be connected to the sewerage system through water seal
traps and adequate vents.
WATER SUPPLY
Every building intended to be occupied by persons shall be provided with a safe and
adequate supply of potable running water from the municipal water supply system or
from a private source approved by the Medical Officer of Health.
Adequate running water shall be supplied to every water closet.
BATHROOM / WASHROOM FACILITIES
All bathrooms and powder rooms shall be fully enclosed and with a door capable of
being locked so as to provide privacy for the user.
A wash basin shall be located in the same room as the water closet and, where this
is not possible a wash basin shall be located in a room conveniently adjacent to the
room containing the water closet, provided that a kitchen sink shall not be
considered a hand wash basin for the purpose of this subsection.
10 TP age
5.9.3 Materials, items or components in a bathroom or powder room including but not
limited to the vanity, vanity top, vanity drawers, vanity doors and all hardware shall
be maintained in good repair or replaced.
5.9.4 Where a barrier-free or universal washroom have been required or provided, all
features shall be maintained including signage, grab-bars, special fixtures and door
hardware as outlined in the Building Code.
5.10 PARKING AREAS, WALKS AND DRIVEWAYS
5.10.1 Every owner of a property that is used for vehicular traffic or parking, including
driveways, loading areas and bays, shall:
a) maintain the grade and drains in the parking area to prevent excessive ponding
of water;
b) provide and maintain light fixtures to the parking area that provides a level of
lighting necessary to maintain safety and security commensurate with the use of
the property;
c) provide curb stops or other restraining devices where necessary, to prevent
vehicles from damaging fences, lamp standards, or other structures on the
parking area or neighbouring property;
d) surface the area for vehicular traffic or parking with an appropriate material for
the use, such as gravel, asphalt, concrete or crushed stone; and
€) maintain the surface in a state of good repair, free of pot holes, large cracks, ruts
or other hazards.
5.10.2 Every owner of a property shall maintain exterior steps, walkways, loading docks,
ramps, parking spaces, driveways and similar areas of a property in good repair,
and,
a) free from obstructions or conditions that prevent the passage of pedestrians; and
b) free from any hazards.
5.10.3 Where buildings and property have been designated, designed, constructed or
altered for barrier-free access, every barrier-free path of travel and all barrier-free
features and equipment shall be installed in accordance with the Building Code, and
shall be maintained in good repair and shall function as designed.
5.11 ACCESSORY BUILDINGS AND OTHER STRUCTURES
5.11.1 An accessory building or other structure appurtenant to a property shall be:
a) constructed and maintained with suitable and uniform materials;
b) kept in good repair and free from hazards; and,
Cc) protected by paint, preservatives or other weather-resistant materials.
5.11.2 Fences, screens, retaining walls and other enclosure appurtenant to a property shall
be:
a) in good repair;
b) free from hazards;
Cc) protected by paint, preservative or other weather-resistant material, except for
wooden fences made of cedar, redwood or treated wood;
d) stable;
11|Page
5.11.3
5.11.4
5.12
5.12.1
5.12.2
5.13
5.13.1
5.13.2
5.14
5.14.1
9.14.2
e) vertical, unless specifically designed to be other than vertical, as in the case of
retaining walls; and
f) free of barbed wire.
Every retaining wall or part thereof appurtenant to a property shall be structurally
sound and maintained in that condition so that it has sufficient capacity to resist
safely and effectively all loads and the effects of loads and influences that may
reasonably be expected, having regard to its expected use and service life.
Unsightly markings, stains or other defacements, including graffiti, on the exterior
surfaces of fences, retaining walls or other enclosures or accessory structures shall
be removed and the surface shall be refinished when necessary.
SIGNS
Signs and any fastening or supporting components appurtenant to a property shall
be maintained in good repair and any sign, which is excessively weathered or faded,
or those upon which the paint has excessively peeled or cracked shall, with their
supporting components, be removed or put into a good state of repair.
Signs and any fastening or supporting components appurtenant to a property that
are not used for the purpose intended, not cared for or discarded shall be removed
from the property.
PEST PREVENTION
Every building shall be kept free of rodents, vermin and insects. Methods used for
exterminating shall be in accordance with the provisions of the Pesticides Act,
R.S.O. 1990, Chap. P.11, as amended, and all regulations enacted pursuant
thereto.
Every opening including natural or mechanical ventilation that may permit the entry
of rodents, vermin or insects, shall be screened with wire mesh, metal grill or other
durable material, which will effectively exclude rodents, vermin and / or insects.
STRUCTURAL SOUNDNESS
Every part of a building shall be maintained in a structurally sound condition.
Materials which have been damaged or show evidence of rot or other deterioration
shall be repaired or replaced.
Every component that contributes to the structural stability of a building shall be
maintained in a sound condition so as to:
a) be capable of sustaining safely its own weight and any additional load to which
it normally may be subject;
b) be capable of safely accommodating all normal structural movements without
damage, decay or deterioration;
c) prevent the entry of moisture that would contribute to damage, fungus, mold
growth, decay or deterioration; and
d) be capable of safely and adequately performing its function subject to all
reasonable serviceability requirements.
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5.14.3
5.14.4
5.15
5.15.1
5.15.2
5.15.3
5.15.4
5.15.5
5.16
5.16.1
5.16.2
5.16.3
5.16.4
5.16.5
5.16.6
If, in the opinion of the Property Standards Officer or Chief Building Official, there is
doubt as to the structural condition of a building or structure or parts thereof, the
Property Standards Officer or Chief Building Official may order that such building or
structure or parts thereof be examined by a professional engineer, licensed to
practice in Ontario and employed by the owner of the building or authorized agent,
and that a written report, which may include drawings for any recommended
remedial work designed by the engineer, and giving details of the findings of such
examination to be submitted to the officer.
Where remedial work is recommended by the professional engineer, all such
remedial work shall be undertaken by the owner, at the owner's sole expense, in
consultation with the professional engineer.
FOUNDATIONS
The foundation walis and basement, cellar or crawlspace floors shall be maintained
in good repair and be structurally sound.
Every basement, cellar, and crawlspace on a property shall be maintained in
watertight conditions so as to prevent the leakage of water into the building.
Foundation walls of a building shall be maintained so as to prevent the entrance of
insects, rodents and excessive moisture. Maintenance includes but not limited to,
the shoring of walls to prevent settling, installing of foundation drains, tuckpointing,
parging and dampproofing or waterproofing the walls and floors.
Every building, unless of concrete slab-on-grade design, shall rest upon full
foundation walls or piers, and all footings, foundation walls, and piers shall be of
concrete, masonry, wood, steel or other material acceptable for construction under
the standards set out in the Building Code and shall be sound, reasonably plumb,
level and adequate to carry the loads imposed on them.
Subsection 5.15.4 shall not apply to accessory buildings, decks or other structures
where the Building Code specifies that no foundation is required.
EXTERIOR WALLS
The exterior walls of buildings and their components shall be maintained so as to
prevent their deterioration due to weather or vermin, and shall be so maintained by:
a) painting, restoring or repairing of the walls, coping or flashing; and
b) the waterproofing of joints and of the walls themselves.
The visible surface of all exterior building walls shall consist of materials commonly
used or designed as building components.
Patching and repairs to exterior walls shall be made with the same or visually similar
material and shall blend with the existing adjacent material or the whole shall be
painted or clad to form a solid appearance with the surrounding surface.
Appropriate measures shall be taken to remove any unsightly markings, stains or
other defacement, including graffiti, occurring on an exposed exterior surface of a
building and, where necessary, to restore the surface as nearly as possible to its
original condition.
All exterior surfaces shall be of materials which by themselves or when treated
provide adequate protection from the weather.
All canopies, marquees, awnings, stand pipes, exhaust ducts and other similar
overhead extensions which may be affixed or adjacent to an exterior wall shall be:
a) maintained in good repair;
. 13 | Page
b) properly anchored to the building and constructed to meet the standards for
such extensions as set out in Building Code; and
c) protected from the elements and against decay and rust by the periodic
application of a weather resistance coating such as paint or other protective
treatment.
5.17 WINDOWS AND DOORS
5.17.1 Exterior doors, windows, skylights, doors, or hatchways including storm and screen
doors and storm windows shall be maintained in good repair and weather tight and
shall be free from:
a) rotten or defective members;
b) defective hardware;
c) torn or damaged screens;
d) defective weatherstripping or caulking;
e) defective storm or screen doors;
f) defective frames, casings and sashes; and
g) missing or broken glass.
5.17.2 All exterior openings for doors or windows shall be fitted with doors or windows that
are capable of being opened and closed easily, unless, in the case of windows, the
windows were manufactured to be fixed.
5.17.3 All windows intended to be opened and all exterior doors shall have hardware so as
to be capable of being locked or otherwise secured from inside the building.
5.18 ROOF
5.18.1 A roof and its components and attachments including the fascia board, soffit, cornice
and flashing shall be maintained in a watertight condition so as to prevent leakage of
water into the building.
5.18.2 All roofs shall be maintained and free from:
a) loose or unsecured objects or materials;
b) excessive or dangerous accumulations of snow, ice or both;
c) conditions causing or contributing to leaks or being detrimental to the
appearance of the buildings; and
d) all other safety, fire and health hazards.
5.18.3 All structural components of a roof shall provide adequate support for all design
loads and form a suitable base for the roof covering, and where the roof is subjected
to a load for which it may be inadequate, the roof shall be cleared of the load to
prevent collapse or structural damage.
5.18.4 All chimneys, smoke or vent stacks, aerials, satellite dishes, lightning arrestors and
other similar structures and their supporting members shall be maintained in a safe
condition and in good repair.
5.19 WALLS, CEILINGS AND FLOORS
5.19.1 Every wall and ceiling finish on the interior of a building shall be:
a) free from large holes or cracks;
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5.19.2
5.19.3
5.19.4
5.19.5
5.19.6
5.19.7
5.20
5.20.1
5.21
5.21.1
5.22
5.22.1
5.22.2
b) free from loose plaster or other material which is in such condition that it may
fall or cause the building or structure to collapse; and
c) maintained so as to be easily cleaned.
When walls or ceilings are repaired, they shall be surfaced with a finish compatible
with the surrounding finishes.
Every floor inside of a building shall be:
a) level; and
b) maintained in good repair so as to be free of all loose, warped, protruding,
broken or decayed flooring, or other hazardous conditions that may cause an
accident or allow dirt or mould to accumulate.
Where floors have been covered with a floor covering that has become worn or torn
so that it retains dirt or may cause an accident, the floor covering shall be repaired
or replaced.
Any repair or replacement required by subsection 5.19.4 shall be such that the
material used shall have a finish similar to that of the original covering.
Bathtubs and showers shall be so maintained as to be water resistant and readily
cleaned and shall be caulked so as to form a continual seal impervious to water
penetration.
Finished flooring in bathrooms, kitchens, public entrance halls, and laundry areas
shall consist of resilient flooring, felted-synthetic-fibre floor coverings, concrete,
terrazzo, ceramic tile, mastic or other types of flooring providing similar degrees of
water resistance.
DAMPNESS
The interior floors, ceilings and walls shall be kept free from dampness arising from
the entrance of moisture through an exterior wall or roof, or through a cellar,
basement or crawl space floor.
STAIRS, BALCONIES, PORCHES AND OTHER PLATFORMS
Every owner of a property shall maintain any balcony, porch, deck, stairs, platform
or fire escape in good repair, and:
a) in aclean and sanitary condition;
b) properly and safely anchored and secured;
c) in the case of any wooden or metal components, protected by a coat of paint or
equivalent preservative;
d) free from any loose or chipping paint or stain;
e) free from loose or unsecured objects;
f) free from any missing or damaged boards;
g) free from any hazard.
GUARDS AND HANDRAILS
The open side(s) of a stair, balcony, deck, porch or landing shall be protected by a
guard in accordance with the Building Code.
A handrail shall be installed and maintained in good repair on all stairs in
accordance with the Building Code.
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5.23 HEATING, VENTILATION AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS
5.23.1 Any non-residential building, except for those of industrial occupancy, shall be
provided with a heating system capable of continuously maintaining an indoor air
temperature of not less than 20°C (68°F) during normal working hours.
5.23.2 For the purpose of subsection 5.23.1, heat shall be provided and maintained so that
the room temperature at 1.5 m (59”) above the floor and 1 m (39”) from the exterior
walls in all rooms and spaces as described and in any area intended for use by
occupants including bathrooms but excluding unheated spaces such as enclosed
vestibules, storage rooms and garages, is the minimum specified temperature.
5.23.3 Any heating, ventilation and or air conditioning system and all associated
mechanical equipment, piping, ducting and other accessory equipment to such
systems shall be installed, operated and maintained:
a) in good working order;
b) to prevent the ingress of smoke or gases into the building;
c) free from any conditions that would cause any associated devices from
generating noise levels beyond that of the acceptable standard in place when
the unit was installed;
d) in a safe mechanical and / or electrical condition free from hazards; and
e) to meet the standards as set out in the Building Code and any other applicable
standard or regulation.
5.23.4 A heating appliance shall not be located in corridors, hallways or other means of
egress.
5.23.5 The heating system and temperature required need not be provided for space not
normally heated.
5.23.6 Except in the event of an emergency, no owner or occupant of an occupied building
shall use a space heater as the primary source of heat.
5.23.7 No space heater shall be placed so as to cause a fire hazard to walls, curtains and
furniture, or to impede the free movement of persons within the room where the
heater is located.
5.23.8 All heating and cooking apparatus or equipment involving combustion shall be
properly connected, by rigid and permanently sealed connections:
a) to a chimney or flue which provides sufficient outlet for the escape of noxious
gases; and
b) to the fuel supply line.
5.23.9 Any fuel burning heating equipment used in any building shall be properly vented to
outside air by means of a Canadian Standards Association (CSA) approved or
Building Code compliant smoke pipe, vent pipe or chimney.
5.23.10 Where a heating system or part thereof, or any auxiliary heating system, burns solid
or liquid fuel, a place or receptacle for the storage of the fuel shall be provided and
maintained in a convenient location and properly constructed so as to be free from
fire, health and safety hazards.
5.23.11 Air conditioners shall be equipped with adequate devices for the prevention of
condensation drainage on to entrance areas, sidewalks, pathways or public spaces.
16|Page
5.23.12 The discharge of cooling water from all water-cooled equipment shall be made to a
5.24
5.24.1
5.25
5.25.1
5.25.2
5.26
5.26.1
5.26.2
5.26.3
5.26.4
5.27
5.27.1
5.27.2
proper drainage system and shall be connected in accordance with all applicable
regulations or standards. .
VENTILATION
Where a system of mechanical ventilation is provided, all components including but
not limited to ducting, intake and exhaust shall be installed to meet the standards as
set out in the Building Code and with good engineering practices.
ELEVATORS
Subject to any maintenance or repair work or orders issued by an inspector under
the Technical Standards and Safety Act, 2000, as amended, elevators, where
provided, including all mechanical and electrical equipment, lighting fixtures, lamps,
control buttons, floor indicators, ventilation fans, and emergency communication
systems shall be operational and maintained in good condition.
The walls, floors and ceilings of elevators shall be kept clean and free from dirt or
defacements.
ELECTRICAL
In every building or structure, the electrical wiring, conduit, and all other systems or
devices associated with the electrical services shall be in compliance with and
maintained according to the regulations made by the Electrical Safety Authority
pursuant to the Electricity Act S.O. 1998, c.15, as amended.
In every building or structure, all fuses, breakers, or circuits relating to the electrical
system shall not be used in a manner that would exceed the limits established for
the related device or system by the Electrical Safety Authority.
If, upon an inspection, it is determined that the electrical installations in a building or
structure create or pose a risk of fire because of the inadequacy or want of repair of
the installations and their wiring, the Property Standards Officer may order that the
electrical installations in the building or structure be inspected by a representative of
the Electrical Safety Authority referred to in Part VIlIl of the Electricity Act, 1998 and
that the costs of the inspection be paid by the owner or occupant of the building or
structure.
The capacity of the system of circuits and electrical outlets within a building or
structure shall be adequate for the intended use of all rooms, and adequate
electrical outlets shall be installed to prevent the need for extension cords or other
extensions being used as a permanent wiring system.
LIGHTING
The interior and exterior lighting that is visible on the exterior of any building shall be
placed and maintained, or have a barrier or shade placed and maintained so as to
prevent or block direct illumination of the interior of a dwelling on adjacent property
regardless of whether such dwelling has or may have interior window coverings
except for:
a) lighting used by a municipal, provincial, or federal government; and
b) lighting located on any property owned by a municipal, provincial or federal
government.
Every owner of a property shall maintain all exterior lighting and supports in good
repair and shall ensure all exterior lighting and supports are:
a) properly and safely anchored and secured;
b) in proper working order;
. 17|Page
5.28
5.28.4
5.28.2
5.28.3
5.28.4
5.29
5.29.1
5.29.2
5.30
5.30.1
5.30.2
c) free from loose or unsecured objects;
d) free from any hazard; and
e) providing adequate light in accordance with the Building Code, as amended, to
ensure safe pedestrian and vehicle passage.
GARBAGE DISPOSAL
Every owner or occupant of a property shall have a sufficient number of suitable
garbage receptacles or garbage bags to contain all garbage, rubbish and waste that
may accumulate on the property between the regularly designated collection days.
Receptacles stored outside of a building, including within a carport, on a covered
porch or on an exterior balcony shall be:
a) watertight;
b) manufactured and maintained to prevent the entry of insects, rodents and the
escape of odours;
c) closed at all times except when garbage, refuse, ashes or trade waste is being
placed therein or removed therefrom; and,
d) maintained in a clean and sanitary condition.
Where commercial, industrial or multi-residential on site commercial containers are
visible from a public street or lane, or the subject site abuts residential properties,
the area where the containers are stored shall be enclosed on all sides by a wall or
solid fence not less than 1.8 m (6’), such wall or fence containing an adequate door
or gate to allow for the removal of garbage or refuse. Containers that are designed
and installed partially below grade are exempt from the requirement to be enclosed.
Garbage chutes, disposal rooms, containers and receptacles shall be washed down,
disinfected and maintained as is necessary to be clean, odour free and in good
working order and repair.
CLEANLINESS
Every floor, wall, ceiling, fixture and equipment in a building shall be maintained in a
clean and sanitary condition as is appropriate to the use which is being made of the
building.
Every building shall be kept free from rubbish, debris or any condition, which
constitutes an accident or health hazard.
MEANS OF EGRESS
Every building shall have a safe, continuous and unobstructed passage from the
interior of the building to the exterior at the street or grade level to meet the
standards as set out in the Building Code.
Every means of egress shall be maintained in good repair and free of objects,
obstructions or conditions which may constitute a health, safety or fire hazard.
RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY STANDARDS
6.1
6.1.1
DOORS AND WINDOWS AND MAIL BOXES
In every dwelling at least one entrance door shall be capable of being locked from
both the interior and exterior of the dwelling but readily openable from the interior of
the dwelling without the use of keys or tools.
18|Page
6.2
6.2.1
6.2.2
6.2.3
6.2.4
6.2.5
6.3
6.3.1
6.3.2
6.3.3
Notwithstanding the requirements of subsection 6.1.1, any exterior doors or windows
intended to be opened shall be equipped with hardware capable of being locked or
otherwise secured from the interior of the building, however they shall be capable of
being readily opened from the interior without the use of keys.
Every window in a dwelling that is located above the first storey of multiple dwelling
shall be equipped with a safety device that would prevent any part of the window
from opening greater than would permit the passage of a 100 mm (4’) diameter
sphere. Such safety device shall not prevent the window from being fully opened
during an emergency situation by an adult without the use of tools.
Each window requiring a safety device referred to in subsection 6.1.3 need only be
installed if at the request of a tenant of a dwelling in which children under the age of
ten years are occupants.
In multiple dwellings where a voice communications system between each dwelling
and the front lobby and a security locking and release facilities for the entrance have
been provided and are controlled from each dwelling, such facilities shall be
maintained in good repair.
Where mailboxes or mail slots are provided in multiple dwellings, they shall be,
a) maintained in good repair;
b) secured with a locking device; and
c) one shall be provided for each dwelling.
KITCHENS
Every dwelling shall contain a kitchen area equipped with a sink served with hot and
cold water, storage facilities, a counter-top work area which is impervious to water
and grease and is easily cleaned, and space for a stove and refrigerator.
Every kitchen shall have connected and operating gas or electrical supply for
cooking and refrigeration purposes as approved by the appropriate authority.
Except as permitted by the Building Code, combustible framing, finishes and
cabinets located directly above a range shall be not less than 750 mm (30”) above
the range burners or elements.
Materials, items or components in a kitchen including but not limited to the
cupboards, cupboard doors, drawers, counter tops and all hardware shall be
maintained in good repair or replaced.
Where appliances are provided, they shall be maintained in good repair and in a
safe condition.
BASEMENT FLOORS
Basements or cellars which are served by a stairway leading from the dwelling or
from outside the dwelling shall have a concrete floor, and when required for
drainage, a floor drain shall be located at the lowest point of the said floor and
connected to a sewage system.
Basements, cellars or crawl spaces, which are not served by a stairway leading from
the dwelling or from outside the dwelling may have a dirt floor provided it is covered
with a moisture proof covering.
A concrete floor in a basement or cellar shall be maintained free from cracks, breaks
or other defects so as not to create an accident hazard or to permit the entry of
water.
19|Page
6.4
6.4.1
6.4.2
6.4.3
6.4.4
6.4.5
6.5
6.5.1
6.5.2
6.5.3
6.6
6.6.1
KITCHEN, BATHROOM AND WASHROOM FACILITIES
Every dwelling shall contain plumbing fixtures consisting of at least,
a) awater closet;
b) a kitchen sink;
c) awash basin; and
d) a bathtub or shower.
Every sink, wash basin, lavatory, bathtub or shower required by this by-law to be
installed and maintained in a dwelling shall have an adequate supply of both hot and
cold water with a flow and pressure sufficient for the intended use of the fixture.
The maximum temperature of hot water supplied to any plumbing fixture, except for
installed dishwashers and clothes washers, in any dwelling shall be 49°C (120°F).
Where a dwelling is used as a boarding house, the occupants may share a single
bathroom provided that:
a) a total of not more than five (5) persons occupy the dwelling;
b) for each additional five (5) persons or less, there shall be an additional water
closet, and bathtub or shower; and
c) access to the bathroom can be gained without going through habitable rooms
or outside of the dwelling.
A toilet or urinal shall not be located within a dwelling in a room used for:
a) the preparation, cooking, storing or consumption of food; or
b) sleeping purposes.
HEATING SYSTEMS
Every dwelling shall be provided with a heating system capable of continuously
maintaining an indoor air temperature of not less than:
a) 22°C (72°F) in all habitable rooms and interior living spaces (excluding
attached garages);
b) 22°C (72°F) in unfinished basement spaces; and
c) 15°C (59°F) in heated crawlspaces.
The indoor air temperatures specified in subsection 6.5.1 are to be maintained
between the 15th day of September of one year and the 31st day of May the
following year unless otherwise specified by the Chief Building Official.
For the purpose of subsection 6.5.1, heat shall be provided and maintained so that
the room temperature at 1.5 m (59”) above the floor and 1 m (39”) from the exterior
walls in all habitable rooms and in any area intended for use by occupants including
bathrooms, toilet rooms, laundry rooms but excluding unheated spaces such as
enclosed porches, sunrooms and garages, is the minimum specified temperature.
ELECTRICAL SERVICE
Every dwelling shall be wired for electricity and shall be connected to an approved
electrical supply system and wired to receive electricity.
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6.6.2
6.6.3
6.7
6.7.1
6.8
6.8.1
6.9
6.9.1
6.9.2
6.10
6.10.1
6.10.2
6.10.3
6.10.4
6.11
6.11.1
6.12
6.12.1
6.12.2
The electrical wiring and all electrical fixtures located or used in a dwelling shall be
installed and maintained in good working order and in conformity with the Ontario
Electrical Safety Authority.
Every habitable room in a dwelling shall have at least one electrical duplex
receptacle for each 11 m? (118 ft?) of floor space and one additional duplex
receptacle for each additional 9 m? (97 ft’) of floor area.
GARAGES
Every garage attached to a dwelling shall be so maintained as to prevent gas, fumes
and carbon monoxide from entering the area of the dwelling.
NATURAL LIGHT
Every habitable room, except a kitchen, bathroom or toilet room shall have a window
or windows, skylights or translucent panels facing directly or indirectly to an outside
space and admit as much natural light equal to not less than ten (10) percent of the
floor area for living and dining rooms and five (5) percent of the floor area for
bedrooms and other finished rooms.
LIGHT
Every dwelling shall be wired for electricity and lighting equipment shall be installed
throughout to provide illumination.
An electrical light fixture shall be installed in every bathroom, hallways, laundry
room, furnace room, kitchen, stairwell, and basement.
VENTILATION
In every dwelling, all habitable rooms, bathrooms and toilet rooms shall have
adequate ventilation, either by natural or mechanical means to the standards set out
in the Building Code.
Every basement, cellar and unheated crawlspace shall have venting provided to a
size greater than or equal to 0.2% of the floor area served.
Every attic shall have venting provided to a size greater than or equal to 0.3% of the
insulation ceiling area served.
Venting provided to comply with the requirements of subsections 6.10.2 and 6.10.3
shall be designed and maintained to prevent the ingress of snow, rain, rodents,
vermin and insects.
DISCONNECTED UTILITIES
No owner or anyone acting on the owner's behalf shall disconnect or cause to be
disconnected any service or utility providing light, heat, air conditioning, refrigeration,
water or cooking facilities for any property occupied by a tenant or lessee, except for
such reasonable period of time as may be required for the purpose of repairing,
replacing or altering the service or utility, and then only during the reasonable
minimum time that the action is necessary.
OCCUPANCY STANDARDS
No person shall use or permit the use of a non-habitable room for use as a habitable
room.
No basement shall be used as a habitable room unless it meets the following
requirements:
a) Floor and walls are constructed so as to be impervious to leakage of
underground and surface runoff water and treated against dampness;
21|Page
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b) Each habitable room shall meet all requirements for light, ventilation, area and
ceiling height prescribed in this By-law or the Building Code; and
c) Access to each habitable room shall be gained without passage through a
furnace or boiler room.
7 HERITAGE PROPERTIES
7.1 MINIMUM MAINTENANCE STANDARDS
7.1.1 In addition to the minimum standards for the maintenance and occupancy of
property in the Town as set out in this by-law, the owner or occupant of any heritage
property shall:
a) maintain, preserve and protect the heritage attributes so as to maintain the
heritage character, visual and structural heritage integrity of the building or
structure; and
b) maintain the property in a manner that will ensure the protection and
preservation of the heritage attributes and values.
7.1.2 The minimum maintenance standards as set out above for heritage property shall
also apply to the elements, features or building components including roofs, walls,
floors, retaining walls, foundations and independent interior structures and structural
systems that hold up, support or protect the heritage values and attributes and
without which the heritage values and attributes may be at risk.
7.2. REPAIR OF HERITAGE ATTRIBUTES
7.2.1 Despite any other provision of this by-law, where a heritage attribute of a heritage
property can be repaired, the heritage attribute shall not be replaced and shall be
repaired:
a) in amanner that minimizes damage to the heritage values and attributes;
b) in a manner and technique that maintains the design, colour, texture, grain or
other distinctive features of the heritage attribute;
c) using the same types of material as the original and in keeping with the design,
colour, texture, grain and any other distinctive features of the original; and
d) where the same types of material as the original are no longer available, using
alternative materials that replicate the design, colour, texture, grain or other
distinctive features and appearance of the original material.
7.3. REPLACEMENT OF HERITAGE ATTRIBUTES
7.3.1 Despite any other provision of this by-law, where a heritage attribute of a heritage
property cannot be repaired, the heritage attribute shall be replaced:
a) using the same types of material as the original;
b) where the same types of material as the original are no longer available, using
alternative materials that replicated the design, colour, texture, grain or other
distinctive features and appearance of the original material; and
c) in such a manner as to replicate the design, colour, texture, grain and other
distinctive features and appearance of the heritage attribute.
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7.4
7.4.1
7.5
7.5.1
7.5.2
7.5.3
7.5.4
7.6
7.6.1
CLEARING AND LEVELLING OF HERITAGE PROPERTIES
Despite any other provision of this By-law, or the Building Code Act, 1992, no
building or structure on a Part IV Heritage Property or a Part V Heritage Property
may be altered or cleared, including but not limited to removed, demolished or
relocated except in accordance with the Ontario Heritage Act.
VACANT AND DAMAGED HERITAGE PROPERTIES
Where a building on a Part IV or a Part V Heritage Property remains vacant or
unoccupied for a period of ninety (90) days or more, the owner shall ensure that
appropriate utilities serving the building are connected as required to provide,
maintain and monitor proper heating and ventilation to prevent damage caused to
the building by fluctuating temperatures and humidity.
Where a building on a Part IV or a Part V Heritage Property is vacant or damaged by
accident, storm, neglect, intentional damage, or other causes, the owner shall
protect the building against the risks of accident, intentional damage, fire, storm,
neglect or other causes and shall effectively prevent the entrance of the elements,
unauthorized persons, or the infestation of pests by closing and securing openings
to the building with at least 19 mm (3/4”) weatherproofed sheet plywood boarding:
a) that completely covers the opening and is properly fitted in a watertight manner
within the side jambs, the head jamb and the exterior bottom sill of the door or
window opening so the exterior trim and cladding remains uncovered and
undamaged by the boarding;
b) that is fastened securely in a manner that minimizes damage to the heritage
attributes and the historic fabric and is reversible; and
c) that minimizes visual impact.
Subject to any applicable provisions of the Ontario Heritage Act, where the minimum
standard imposed by subsection 7.5.2 has, more than once, failed to exclude
unauthorized entry, and further where the owner’s control, attendance or lack of
security measures to protect the heritage property suggests that a more secure
option be used, the owner shall supply such measures, including improved security
of closures, as may be required by the Chief Building Official or Property Standards
Officer.
Despite subsection 7.5.3, no window, door or other opening on a Part IV Heritage
Property or a Part V Heritage Property shall be secured by brick or masonry units
held in place by mortar unless required by the Town.
CONFLICT
In the event of a conflict between the provisions of this part regarding heritage
property and any other part of this by-law or the Building Code, the provision that
establishes the highest standard for the protection of the heritage attribute shall
prevail.
8 VACANT AND DAMAGED BUILDINGS
8.1
8.1.1
8.1.2
VACANT BUILDINGS
For the purpose of this section “Derelict” shall mean: any building that is vacant and
has experienced structural failure in whole or in part.
For the purpose of maintenance of vacant buildings, all provisions within this by-law
which regulate interior conditions of a building shall not apply. All provisions within
this by-law which regulate exterior conditions and structural integrity shall apply with
the exception of sections 5.17 and 6.1 when the building’s exterior openings are
boarded in accordance with this By-law.
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8.1.3
8.1.4
8.1.5
8.2
8.2.1
8.2.2
8.2.3
8.2.4
8.2.5
8.2.6
8.3
8.3.1
8.3.2
Where any building is vacant or unoccupied, the owner shall protect every such
building against the risk of fire, accident or other such hazard and shall effectively
prevent the entrance thereto of all unauthorized persons.
Doors, windows, hatches and any other such opening through which entry may be
gained are required to be kept in good repair and secured from unauthorized entry,
or entry shall be prevented by closing and securing each opening with at least
12.7mm (1/2”) weatherproof sheet plywood securely fastened to the building and
painted a colour compatible to the surrounding walls.
Where a building remains vacant for a period of time greater than ninety (90) days,
the Owner shall ensure that all utilities serving the building, which are not required
for the safety and security or maintenance thereof, are properly disconnected or
otherwise secured, to prevent accidental or malicious damage to the building or
adjacent property.
If a vacant building becomes derelict as defined in this by-law, the owner or their
agent shail bring the building into compliance with all structural and exterior
maintenance provisions of this by-law or such building shall be demolished in
accordance with the Building Code Act.
DAMAGED BUILDINGS
Where a building is damaged by accident, storm, fire, neglect or other causes or
intentional damage, the owner shall demolish or repair the building within thirty (30)
days or a reasonable time arranged for and approved by the Chief Building Official.
Where a building is damaged by accident, storm, fire, neglect or other causes or
intentional damage, immediate steps shall be taken to prevent or remove a condition
which might endanger persons on or near the property and the building or structure
shall be properly supported and barricaded until the necessary demolition or repair
can be carried out.
Where a building is damaged by accident, storm, fire, neglect or other causes or
intentional damage, the owner shall protect the building against further risk or further
damage, accident or other danger, and shall effectively prevent entrance thereto by
all unauthorized persons by closing and securing each opening to the building with
at least 12.7 mm (1/2”) weatherproof sheet plywood securely fastened to the
building and painted a colour compatible to the surrounding walls.
The exterior walls and other surfaces of the building shall have smoke damage or
other defacement removed and the surfaces refinished.
Exterior walls, roofs and other parts of a building shall be free objects and materials,
which may create a hazard. Such objects or materials shall be removed, repaired or
replaced so as to create a safe condition.
In the event the building or structure is beyond repair, the land shall be cleared of
debris and remains and shall be left in a graded, level and safe condition without
unreasonable delay.
DEMOLITION
Where a building, accessory building, fence or other structure is demolished, the
property shall be cleared of all rubbish, waste, debris, refuse, masonry, lumber and
left in a graded and leveled condition.
Where a building, accessory building, fence or other structure is being demolished,
every precaution shall be taken to protect adjoining properties and members of the
public. The precautions to be taken include the erection of fences, barricades,
covered walkways for pedestrians and any other means of protection necessary for
the protection of the adjoining properties and members of the public.
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8.3.3
Prior to demolishing any building, a Demolition Permit must first be obtained from
the Chief Building Official.
9 OFFENCES AND PENALTIES
9.1
9.1.1
9.1.2
9.1.5
9.1.6
9.1.9
OBLIGATIONS AND PROHIBITIONS
No owner or occupant of property shall use, occupy, allow, permit or acquiesce in
the use or occupation of the property unless such property conforms to the
standards prescribed in this by-law.
No person, being the owner, tenant or occupant of a property, shall fail to maintain
the property in conformity with the standards required by this by-law.
Every tenant of a dwelling, in that part of the dwelling that the tenant occupies or
controls shall:
a) maintain all plumbing, cooking, refrigerating appliances and fixtures and all
storage facilities and other equipment therein in a clean and sanitary condition;
b) exterminate insects, rodents or other pests within his/her dwelling;
c) dispose of garbage and refuse into provided facilities in a clean and sanitary
manner in accordance with the provisions of the Town and County by-laws;
d) keep all exits from the dwelling clean and unobstructed; and
€) maintain the dwelling in a clean and sanitary conditions.
No person shall hinder, obstruct, molest or interfere with or attempt to hinder,
obstruct, molest or interfere with an Officer or a person acting under their
instructions in the exercise of a power or the performance of a duty under this by-
law.
Every person shall assist any entry, inspection, examination, testing or inquiry by an
officer in the exercise of a power of performance of a duty under this by-law.
No person shall neglect or refuse:
a) to produce any documents, drawings, specifications or things required by an
Officer; or
b) to provide any information required by an Officer.
Where any property with the Town of Collingwood does not conform to the
applicable standards set forth in this by-law, the owner of the property shall:
a) repair and thereafter maintain such property to conform to such standards; or
b) where conformity to such standards cannot be effected by repair, clear the site
of all buildings, structures, debris and refuse not in conformity, and leave such
area of the site in a graded and leveled condition.
All repair and maintenance of property shall be carried out with suitable and
sufficient materials and in a manner accepted as good workmanship within the
trades concerned. All construction, repair, renovation or demolition shall conform to
the requirements of the Building Code and is subject to the requirements for all
applicable permits.
Without restricting the generality of subsection 9.1.8:
a) the requirement that repairs be made in a “manner that is accepted as good
workmanship” includes ensuring that the component repaired can perform its
intended function and finishing the repair in a manner reasonably compatible in
design and colour with adjoining decorative finishing materials; and
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9.2
9.2.4
9.2.2
9.2.3
b) the requirement that repairs be made with materials that are “suitable and
sufficient for the purpose” includes a requirement for materials reasonably
compatible in design and colour with adjoining decorative finishing materials.
PENALTIES
Every person who contravenes or fails to comply with any provision of this by-law is
guilty of an offence, and upon conviction is liable to a maximum penalty of $5,000
per day for each day on which the offence occurs, pursuant to the Provincial
Offences Act.
Every person who fails to comply with an order issued under this by-law is guilty of
an offence, and upon conviction is liable to a maximum penalty of $50,000 for a first
offence and of $100,000 for any subsequent offences pursuant to the Building Code
Act.
Every corporation that fails to comply with an order issued under this by-law is guilty
of an offence, and upon conviction is liable to a maximum penalty of $100,000 for a
first offence and of $200,000 for any subsequent offences pursuant to the Building
Code Act.
10 ADMINISTRATION
10.1
10.1.1
10.1.2
10.1.3
10.1.4
10.1.5
10.1.6
10.1.7
10.1.8
10.2
10.2.1
PROPERTY STANDARDS COMMITTEE
A Committee to be known as the Property Standards Committee of the Town of
Collingwood is hereby established.
The Property Standards Committee for the Town of Collingwood shall consist of not
less than five (5) citizens at large to be appointed by Council, with a term to coincide
with Council. The members of the Committee shall hold office until their successors
have been appointed. Any vacancy on the Committee shall be filled forthwith.
The members of the Committee shall elect a Chair from among themselves, when
the Chair is absent through illness or otherwise, the Committee may appoint another
member as Acting Chair.
A majority of the members constitutes a quorum for transacting the business of the
Committee.
The Town shall provide a Secretary for the Committee who shall keep on file the
records of all official business of the Committee, including records of all applications
and minutes of all decisions respecting those applications.
The Secretary as identified above in subsection 10.1.5 shall keep on file minutes
and records of all applications and the decisions thereon and of all other official
business of the Committee.
The Committee may adopt its own rules of procedure, but before hearing an appeal,
the Committee shall give notice or direct that notice be given of such hearing to such
person as the Committee considers advisable.
Members of the Committee shall be paid such compensation as the Council of the
Town of Collingwood may provide by resolution from time to time.
PROPERTY STANDARDS OFFICER(S)
The Town shall appoint a Property Standards Officer(s) and such other staff as may
be necessary to carry out the administrative functions of this by-law including the
enforcement thereof.
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10.3
10.3.1
10.3.2
10.3.3
10.3.4
10.3.5
10.4
10.4.1
10.5
10.5.1
COMPLIANCE ORDERS AND CERTIFICATES OF COMPLIANCE
The owner or occupant of a property shall:
a) comply with all standards prescribed in this by-law;
b) comply with any final and binding Order of the Officer;
c) produce documents or things requested by the Officer for inspection as
relevant to the property or any part thereof, allow the removal of such
documents or things for the purpose of making copies, provide information or
assist in the collection of information from other persons concerning, a matter
related to the property or part thereof, allow entry by the Officer or such
persons as needed to carry out an inspection or test or in aid thereof, permit
examination, tests, sampling or photographs necessary for the purpose of an
inspection or in aid thereof, and provide at their expense when requested, tests
and samples as are specified in an Order, all as may aid or assist in the
carrying out of an inspection and determination of compliance with this by-law
and the relevant portions of the Act; and
d) ensure, that in complying under this by-law, and in carrying out work required
under an Order or other obligation under this by-law, that the property and
activities shall be kept and carried out in a condition and manner that avoids
conditions dangerous to the Owner, occupants or visitors to the property or
which put at risk of injury or health such persons and giving adequate warning
where such risks cannot be avoided so as to allow such person to avoid the
danger or risks.
A person affected by a Property Standards Order may seek to have compliance with
an outstanding Order determined by supplying such proof as may allow compliance
to be determined or permit or arrange for an inspection of the property by an Officer,
and shall be liable to pay any applicable fees, charges or expenses.
Where the proof submitted to comply with subsection 10.3.2 is insufficient for the
Officer to determine the compliance of the property with the Order or part thereof,
the person shall, subject to the Building Code Act, permit or arrange for a
reasonable and timely inspection by the Officer to determine compliance or that the
proof submitted confirms compliance.
Any property owner may make an application to the Town of Collingwood for a
certificate of compliance by completing and signing an application on the form
available at the Town of Collingwood Municipal Office and paying the applicable fee.
Where a Property Standards Order has been registered, an owner or occupant may
apply for an inspection of the property in respect of the Order and shall pay the fee
prescribed in accordance with the Town’s fees and services by-law and any
revisions thereto in the form of a certified cheque, money order or cash at the time of
application, which fee includes the registration or discharge where compliance with
the Order is found.
VALIDITY
If any section of this by-law be declared by a Court of competent jurisdiction to be
ultra vires or illegal for any reason, the remaining parts shall nevertheless remain
valid and binding, and shall be read as if the offending section or part had been
struck out.
TRANSITIONAL RULES
An order made pursuant to By-law No. 2005-54, the Property Standards By-law is
continued under and in conformity with the provisions of this by-law so far as
consistently may be possible.
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10.5.2
10.5.3
10.5.4
10.6
10.6.1
10.7
10.7.1
10.8
10.8.1
All proceedings taken pursuant to By-law No. 2005-54, the Property Standards By-
law shall be taken up and continued under and in conformity with the provisions of
this by-law so far as consistently may be possible.
In the recovery or enforcement of penalties and forfeitures incurred, or in any other
proceeding in relation to matters that have happened before the repeal of By-law
No. 2005-54, the Property Standards By-law, the procedure established by this by-
law shall be followed so far as it can be adopted.
The members of the Property Standards Committee as it exists on the effective date
of this by-law shall continue in office until successors are appointed in accordance
with the provisions of this by-law.
FEES AND SERVICES
That the municipal fees for the administration and enforcement of this by-law be in
accordance with the Town’s fees and services by-law and any revisions thereto.
REPEALS
By-law No. 2005-54 and By-law No. 2010-092 are hereby repealed.
ENACTMENT
This By-law shall come into full force and effect on the date of final passage hereof
at which time all By-laws and/or resolutions that are inconsistent with the provisions
of this By-law and the same are hereby repealed or rescinded insofar as it is
necessary to give effect to the provisions of this By-law.
ENACTED AND PASSED this 13" day of June, 2016.
/
Arnhhafes$tir
\ _) CLERK
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