What are the rules on junk, derelict cars, and unsightly property?
In the City of Hamilton, Ontario, property maintenance rules are set by Property Maintenance (Yards) By-law No. 10-118 (Consolidated, Nov 2025) and 1 other bylaw, verified 2026-10-18. Standards: Yards must be kept free and clear of all waste; turfgrass and vegetation must be kept clean and cleared up; graffiti must be cleaned; hazards prohibited.
Yards must be kept free and clear of all waste; turfgrass and vegetation must be kept clean and cleared up; graffiti must be cleaned; hazards prohibited.
3(1)(a), 4(1), 5(1), 9(3)
enforcement
An officer may order discontinuance of contravening activity or corrective work; if not complied, Director may carry out at person's expense and recover costs with 15% interest.
10(7), 10(9), 10(12), 10(13)
scout note
Regulates the condition of yards - grass/weed height, accumulation of debris/refuse/junk, and general yard maintenance - with enforcement and remedial-action provisions.
Property Standards By-law No. 23-162 (Consolidated, Nov 2025)
adopted bylaw
standards
No owner/occupant shall fail to maintain property in conformity; owner shall repair/maintain or clear debris and leave graded/levelled.
s. 3(2) and s. 3(3)
enforcement
Officer may issue property standards order; if not complied with, City may repair or demolish at owner's expense and lien property.
s. 29(1); s. 29(2)(c); s. 31(4); s. 31(8)
scout note
Sets minimum maintenance/occupancy standards for all properties (structural, sanitary, fire-safety) and prohibits unsightly, dangerous or derelict premises; basis for property-standards orders and vacant-building enforcement.