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CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF RENFREW
PROPERTY STANDARDS
BY-LAW NO. 20-2016
Page 2 of 23
Table of Contents
PART I - GENERAL
1.1 Title ..................................................................................................
1.2 Definitions ........................................................................................
1.3 Scope and Purpose of By-law ..........................................................
1.4 Responsibility of Owner ...................................................................
1.5 Structural Standards ........................................................................
1.6 Repair and Maintenance Standards .................................................
1.7 Damaged Material ...........................................................................
1.8 Debris or Littering ............................................................................
1.9 Storage and Disposal of Garbage ....................................................
1.10 Pests ...............................................................................................
PART II - STANDARDS FOR ALL PROPERTY
2.1 Maintenance of Yards ......................................................................
2.2 Drainage ..........................................................................................
2.3 Parking Areas, Driveways and Walkways ........................................
2.4 Fences, Barriers and Retaining Walls ..............................................
2.5 Gantries, Towers, Masts and Antennae ...........................................
2.6 Foundations .....................................................................................
2.7 Roofs ...............................................................................................
2.8 Chimneys .........................................................................................
2.9 Overhanging Extensions ..................................................................
2.10 Stairs, Fire Escapes and Ramps ......................................................
2.11 Elevators ..........................................................................................
2.12 Exterior Walls ..................................................................................
2.13 Interior Walls and Ceilings ...............................................................
2.14 Floors ..............................................................................................
2.15 Doors, Windows and Security .........................................................
2.16 Heating and Mechanical Systems ....................................................
2.17 Electrical Systems ...........................................................................
2.18 Fire Protection Equipment ...............................................................
2.19 Ventilation ........................................................................................
2.20 Lighting ............................................................................................
PART III - STANDARDS FOR RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY
3.1 Standards of Occupancy ..................................................................
3.2 Means of Egress ..............................................................................
3.3 Doors, Windows and Security ..........................................................
3.4 Plumbing System .............................................................................
3.5 Bathroom and Laundry Facilities ......................................................
3.6 Kitchens ...........................................................................................
3.7 Accessory Buildings .........................................................................
3.8 Garages and Carports .....................................................................
3.9 Recreational Facilities ......................................................................
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3.10 Swimming Pools ..............................................................................
PART IV - STANDARDS FOR NON-RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY
4.1 General ............................................................................................
4.2 Signs ...............................................................................................
PART V - STANDARDS FOR VACANT LANDS AND BUILDINGS
5.1 Vacant Lands ...................................................................................
5.2 Vacant Buildings ..............................................................................
5.3 Demolition ........................................................................................
PART VI - ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT
6.1 General ............................................................................................
6.2 Property Standards Officer ..............................................................
6.3 Property Standards Committee ........................................................
6.4 Appealing an Order ..........................................................................
6.5 Power of the Corporation to Repair or Demolish ..............................
6.6 Emergency Powers ..........................................................................
6.7 Penalties ..........................................................................................
6.8 Validity .............................................................................................
6.9 Repeal .............................................................................................
6.10 Commencement ..............................................................................
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By-Law No. 20-2016
Being a by-law of the Corporation of the
Town of Renfrew to provide standards for
the occupancy and maintenance of properties
within the municipal boundaries.
WHEREAS the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Renfrew is empowered to
enact a by-law pursuant to the provision of Section 15.1 of The Building Code Act,
R.S.O. 1997 and amendments thereto; and
WHEREAS the Corporation of the Town of Renfrew has an Official Plan that provides
for the passing of by-laws establishing minimum maintenance standards and
occupancy.
NOW THEREFORE the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Renfrew enacts that
all property owners within the Town are required to comply with the following minimum
standards of occupancy as follows:
PART I - GENERAL
1.1 Title
The By-Law may be cited as the "Property Standards By-Law".
1.2 Definitions
1.2.1 Non-defined Terms
Definition of words and phrases used in this By-Law that are not included
in the list of definitions in this Part shall have the meanings which are
commonly assigned to them in the context in which they are used in this
By-Law, taking into account the specialized use of terms with the various
trades and professions to which the terminology applies.
1.2.2 Defined Terms
Definitions of words and phrases used in this By-Law that are included in
the list of definitions in this Part shall have the meaning which is stipulated
herein.
"Accessory" when used to describe a use, building or structure, shall mean a
use, or a detached building or structure, that is naturally and normally incidental,
subordinate and exclusively devoted to supporting the principle use, building or
structure and located on the same lot therewith. This does not include an
accessory residence unless otherwise specified
"Alter" (as applying to a building) shall mean a change from one major
occupancy class or division to another, or a structural change such as an addition
to the area and height, or the removal of part of a building, or any change to the
structure such as the construction of, cutting into or removal of any wall, partition,
column, beam, joist, floor or other support, or a change of the fixtures and
equipment.
When used in reference to a lot, the word alter means to decrease the width,
depth or area of any required yard, setback, landscaped open space or parking
area, or to change the location of any boundary of such lot with respect to a street
or lane. The words "altered" and "alteration" shall have a corresponding meaning.
"Attic" shall mean the space between the ceiling of the top storey and the roof,
or between a dwarf wall and a sloping roof.
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"Auxiliary Heaters" shall mean sources of heat that are secondary to the
primary source of heat for a building, and are of insufficient capacity to function
as the primary heat source for the building under consideration.
"Balustrade" shall mean a row of balusters or spindles surmounted by a railing.
"Basement" shall mean that portion of a building between two floor levels which
is partly underground but which has at least one-half of its height from finished
floor to finished ceiling above adjacent finished grade as approved.
"Bathroom" shall mean an area containing a toilet, urinal, bathtub, shower,
washbasin, or combination thereof.
"Building" shall mean any structure used or designed to be used for shelter,
accommodation or enclosure of persons, animals or chattels.
"Building Area" shall mean the greatest horizontal area of a building above
grade within the outside surface of exterior walls, or within the outside surface of
exterior walls and the center line of fire walls.
"Building Height" (in storey's) shall mean the number of storey's contained
between the roof and the floor of the first storey.
"Cellar" shall mean the portion of a building between two floor levels, which is
partly underground and which has more than one half of its height from finished
floor to finished ceiling, below adjacent finished grade.
"Chimney" shall mean a primarily vertical shaft enclosing at least one flue for
conducting flue gas to the outdoors.
"Committee" shall mean the Committee of Adjustment/Property Standards
Committee as established in the context of this By-Law.
"Council" shall mean the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Renfrew.
"Debris" shall mean refuse, rubbish or junk, and includes disused materials,
appliances, devices, vehicles, parts and equipment of any kind whatsoever.
"Downtown Core Area" shall mean the Town of Renfrew's downtown area
bounded by Argyle St on the west, Bridge St. on the north, Plaunt St. on the east
and Hall St. at Raglan St. S. on the south.
"Dwelling" shall mean a building or a structure, any part of which is used, or
intended to be used, for human habitation and in which all normal domestic
functions are carried on.
"Dwelling Unit" shall mean a suite of habitable rooms which:
(a) is located in a building; and
(b) is used or intended to be used in common by one or more persons as a
single, independent and separate housekeeping establishment; and
(c) contains food preparation and sanitary facilities provided for the exclusive
common use of the occupants thereof; and
(d) has a private entrance directly from outside the building or from a common
hallway or stairway inside the building.
"Exit Access" shall mean that part of a means of egress within a floor area that
provides access to an exit serving the floor area.
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"Fence" shall mean any barrier or structure other than a building, erected at
grade, which is constructed for the purpose of screening, safeguarding or
encasing property or delineating property lines.
"First Storey" shall mean the storey with its floor closest to grade and having its
ceiling more than 1.8 meters (6 ft, 11 in) above grade.
"Fish Hut" also called fishing shanty, fish house, ice shanty, ice shack, ice
house, ice hut, etc. is a portable shed placed on a frozen lake or river to provide
shelter during ice fishing.
"Garage" shall mean an enclosed or partially enclosed structure in which no
business, occupation or service is conducted for profit, and which structure is
used primarily for the storage of one or more vehicles and storage of household
equipment incidental to the residential occupancy. Carport shall have a
corresponding meaning.
"Grade" shall mean, when used with reference to a building, the average
elevation of the finished surface of the ground where it meets the exterior of the
front of such building and when used with reference to a structure, shall mean the
average elevation of the finished surface of the ground immediately surrounding
such structure, exclusive in both cases of any artificial embankment, and when
used with reference to a street, road or highway, means the elevation of the
street, road or highway, means the elevation of the street, road or highway,
established by the Town of Renfrew or other designated road authority.
"Ground Cover" shall mean organic or non-organic material applied to prevent
soil erosion in a yard.
"Habitable Room" shall mean a room designed to provide living, dining,
sleeping or kitchen accommodation. This definition may include a den, library or
enclosed sun room but shall not include a porch, veranda, unfinished attic or
unfinished basement.
"In-Law Suite" (Second units) also known as accessory or basement
apartments, secondary suites and in-law flats, shall mean self-contained
residential units with kitchen and bathroom facilities within dwellings or within
structures accessory to dwellings (such as above laneway garages). The
exclusive purpose of which is to function as a living quarters for a family member
of the Owner of the residence.
"Main Building" shall mean a building in which the principal use is conducted on
the lot on which the building is located. In the residential zone the dwelling is the
main building.
"Maintenance" shall mean the preservation and keeping in repair of a property.
"Means of Egress" shall mean a continuous, unobstructed path of travel
provided for the exit of persons from any point in a building to an exterior open
space protected from exposure to hazard in an emergency, and having access to
an open public thoroughfare.
"Non-Habitable Room" shall mean any room in a building, other than a
habitable room, and includes a bathroom, laundry, pantry, lobby, corridor,
stairway, closet, boiler room, or other space for servicing or maintaining the
building, and for access to and vertical travel between storeys of a building.
"Non-Residential Property" shall mean a building or structure not occupied or
capable of being occupied in whole or in part for the purpose of human habitation,
and includes the lands and premises appurtenant thereto.
"Occupant" shall mean a tenant, or occupant, or person for the time being,
managing or receiving the rent from the property, whether on his own account or
on account of an agent or trustee of any person, or any one of the aforesaid.
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"Officer" shall mean a person or entity employed directly or indirectly by the
Corporation to enforce the by-laws of the Corporation and perform others duties as
assigned from time to time on behalf of the Corporation as it's agent, and includes
his/her designate assigned the responsibility for enforcing and administering this
by-law;
"Owner" shall mean the registered owner of property.
"Person" shall mean a corporation and the heirs, executors, administrators or
other legal representatives of a person to whom the context can apply according
to law.
"Property" shall mean 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, fences and erections thereon whether heretofore or hereafter
erected and includes vacant property.
"Repair" shall mean the provision of such facilities and the making of such
alteration or the taking of such action as may be required so that the property
conforms to the standards established in this By-Law.
"Residential Property" shall mean any property that is used or designed for use
as a domestic establishment in which one or more persons usually sleep and
prepare and serve meals and includes any land or buildings that are appurtenant
to such establishment and all steps, walks, driveways, parking spaces, and
fences associated with the dwelling or its yard.
"Residential Zone" shall mean a residential zone as designated in the Zoning
By-Law of the Town, and all amendments made thereto.
"Sanitary Sewage" shall mean water borne waste of industrial, commercial or
domestic origin, including bathroom, kitchen and laundry waste.
"Sign" shall mean any surface upon which there is printed, projected or attached
any announcement, declaration or insignia used for direction, information,
identification, advertisements, business promotion or promotion of products,
activity or services and includes a structure, whether fixed or portable.
"Standards" shall mean the standards of maintenance and occupancy
prescribed in this By-Law for property within the Town.
"Storey" shall mean that portion of a building that is situated between the top of
any floor immediately above it or the roof above it, provided that if that portion of
the building is partly below grade level, it shall not be deemed a storey unless its
ceiling is at least 2 meters (6 ft, 7 in) above grade.
"Stormwater" shall mean surface water flow resulting from rainfall or the melting
of snow or ice.
"Storm Sewer" shall mean a sewer that conveys storm water.
"Structure" shall mean anything constructed or erected, the use of which
requires location on or in the ground or attached to something having location on
or in the ground.
"Suite" shall mean a room or a combination of rooms of complementary use
within a dwelling unit operated under a single tenancy or occupancy.
"Town" shall mean the Corporation of the Town of Renfrew, or land included
within the Town of Renfrew as appropriate.
"Vehicle" shall mean a passenger automobile or other motor vehicle, a boat, a
farm implement, a commercial motor vehicle, a recreational vehicle, a
snowmobile, a trailer and any other device that is capable of being propelled or
Page 8 of 23
driven by any kind of power but not any other device powered solely by human
effort except a boat.
"Vacant Lot" shall mean any property on which there are no building or
structures of any kind but shall not mean land zoned as areas of environmental or
recreational significance, or land utilized for agricultural production.
"Wastewater" shall mean any liquid wastes normally collected in a sewer system
and conveyed to a treatment plant for processing.
"Yard "shall mean an open space on the same lot with a building or structure or
excavation, unoccupied and unobstructed except as for such accessory buildings,
structures or uses specifically permitted in this By-law.
1.3 Scope and Purpose of By-Law
1.3.1 Provisions of this By-Law shall apply to all properties within the boundary
limits of the Town of Renfrew.
1.3.2 This By-Law is enacted to ensure that all properties within the Town are
developed and maintained in harmony with the Ontario Building Code. The
general purpose of the By-Law is to provide a safe and pleasant
environment for living, working, shopping and recreation.
1.4 Responsibility of the Owner
1.4.1 Except where otherwise provided in this By-law, the Owner of a Property
to which this By-Law applies shall ensure compliance with the
maintenance standards set out in this By-Law.
1.5 Structural Standards
1.5.1 Every building or structure, or part of a building or structure, shall be
structurally sound and maintained in a condition so that it has sufficient
structural integrity to resist safely and effectively all loads and the effects of
loads and influences that may reasonably be expected, having due regard
for its expected use.
1.5.2
If in the opinion of the Officer, the integrity of any building or structure is in
doubt; the Officer may require the Owner (at the Owner's expense) to
submit an inspection report, prepared, signed and sealed by a
Professional Engineer qualified and licensed by the Association of
Professional Engineers of Ontario, certifying that the building or structure
is safe and structurally sound.
1.6 Repair and Maintenance Standards
1.6.1 Buildings, structure, materials or equipment that have been damaged or
show evidence of deterioration shall forthwith be repaired or replaced.
1.6.2 All parts of a building or structure shall be free from loose or improperly
secured objects or materials.
1.6.3 Repairs to any premises shall be made in accordance with good
workmanship in the respective building trades and with materials that are
suitable and sufficient for the purpose.
1.7 Damaged Material
1.7.1 In the event of damage by fire, explosion, wind, flood or other disaster,
measures shall be taken promptly to bring the damaged building to current
building code standards.
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1.7.2 Upon completion of investigation by Police and Fire Authorities, damaged
or partially-damaged materials shall be forthwith removed from the
property and replaced with new materials so as to be in harmony with
adjoining undamaged surfaces and with the general environment.
1.7.3 Building surfaces that have become significantly marked or damaged by
smoke, water or other causes shall be restored or replaced.
1.8 Debris or Littering
1.8.1 Every Owner or Occupant of a property shall keep the property free and
clear of debris.
1.8.2 No person shall throw, place, deposit, or permit to be thrown, placed or
deposited, debris on or beside any street, sidewalk or boulevard within the
Town except when placed for collection in accordance with the Town's
Waste Management By-Law.
1.9 Storage and Disposal of Garbage
1.9.1 Every building and every dwelling unit shall use sufficient weather resistant
receptacles to contain all garbage or refuse, as required by the Town's
Waste Management By-Law.
1.9.2 Garbage and refuse shall be stored in approved receptacles within a
building or structure, or in the rear yard where it will be screened from the
view of neighbours or passers-by until collected for disposal.
1.9.3 Refuse containers shall be kept on the premises occupied by owners and
shall not be left, whether in use or not, upon any street or public place
except in accordance with the Town's Waste Management By-Law.
1.10 Pests
1.10.1 Every property shall be kept free of rodents, birds, insects or other vermin
which cause or may cause a nuisance to the occupants of the property or
of neighbouring properties.
1.10.2 The methods used for exterminating pests shall be in accordance with the
provisions of the Pesticides Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter P.11 and all
regulations pursuant thereto.
1.10.3 When an exterior opening of a building is used for ventilation, drainage or
illumination and is not required to be fitted with a door, window or other
closure; it shall be covered with screening, grills, or other protection so as
to effectively prevent the entry of any vermin.
PART II - STANDARDS FOR ALL PROPERTY
2.1 Maintenance of Yards
2.1.1 Yards shall be kept clean and free from:
1) Objects or conditions such as holes and excavations that might create
a fire, health or accidental hazard;
2) Heavy undergrowth, long grass and noxious weeds as defined by the
Weed Control Act, R.S.O. 1990;
3) Dead, decayed or damaged trees or vegetation that create an unsafe
or unsightly condition or that may cause damage;
4) Dilapidated, collapsed or unfinished structures;
Page 10 of 23
5) Any vehicles, equipment, machinery or trailers which are wrecked,
discarded, dismantled, inoperative, unlicensed or abandoned, except
where such articles are required and used for business purposes
permitted under the Town's Comprehensive Zoning By-Law, and where
such articles are placed, stored or left in a manner which avoids an
unsafe or unsightly condition deleterious to the neighbourhood;
6) Old or dilapidated furniture, or any appliances (e.g.- freezers,
refrigerators, stoves, etc.); and/or
7) Stored or accumulated objects or materials that create a nuisance or
are unsightly.
2.1.2 Yards shall be maintained so as to:
1) Prevent excessive or recurrent accumulation of water;
2) Prevent the flow of water into any building or structure, either on the
same lot or on an adjacent lot; and/or
3) Prevent instability or erosion of soil.
2.1.3 No materials shall be stored in a front yard. Materials may be stored within
an exterior side yard if adequately screened from view.
2.2 Drainage
2.2.1 Except for established ponds and drainage wards approved by the Town
of Renfrew, recurrent ponding which creates a health, safety, or accident
hazard or creates a nuisance shall be eradicated by grading, filling or
otherwise draining the land.
2.2.2 Every property containing a building with a basement or cellar shall be
graded and drained as to prevent the entry of water into the basement or
cellar.
2.2.3 Storm water collected from a roof (i.e. - roof drain or eaves trough), pool
backwash water, driveway or any other surface shall be maintained so as
to discharge water run-off away from the building, and to prevent flooding
and erosion on neighbouring properties. Discharge shall not be permitted
to the sanitary sewer system.
2.2.4 No roof drainage or drainage of water from swimming pools shall be
discharged on sidewalks, steps, neighbouring property or into the sanitary
sewer system and shall be contained within the limits of the premises from
which it originated until absorbed by the soil or drained to an approved
swale, ditch or storm sewer.
2.2.5 Internal down pipes must be fitted with a trap/filter (i.e. - scupper). All
internal down pipes and discharge lines from sump pumps shall be drained
to a storm water collection/drainage system.
2.2.6 Sewage or organic waste (i.e. - wastewater) shall be discharged into a
municipal sewage system where such system exists. Where a municipal
sewage system does not exist, sewage or organic waste shall be disposed
of in a manner according to the Ontario Building Code (i.e. - on-site
sewage disposal system).
2.2.7 Every on-site sewage system shall be maintained so that:
(i) The construction of the sewage system remains in accordance with the
basis on which the construction and use of the sewage system was
approved or required under the Building Code Act or predecessor
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legislation, as the case may be and the requirements of the
manufacturer of the sewage system.
(ii) All components of the sewage system function in their intended
manner.
2.2.8 The land in the vicinity of an on-site sewage system shall be maintained in
a condition that will not cause damage to or impair the functioning of the
sewage system.
2.2.9 No person shall, directly or indirectly, discharge or deposit matter of any
type into a sanitary sewer, combined sewer, storm sewer, watercourse,
whether municipal or privately owned where it may cause or result in:
(i) A health or safety hazard to any person, animal, fish or fish habitat,
property or vegetation;
(ii) An offense under the Ontario Water Resources Act (OWRA) or the
Environmental Protection Act (EPA);
(iii) A failure to meet the objectives and criteria listed in the Ministry of
Energy and the Environment publication entitles "Guidelines for the
Utilization of Biosolids and Other Wastes on Agricultural Land", dated
March 1996, as amended form time to time;
(iv) An
offensive
odour,
without
limiting
the
generality
of
the
sewage/wastewater (i.e. ammonia in such quantity as it may cause an
offensive odour);
(v) Damage to sewage works;
(vi) An obstruction or restriction to flow; and
(vii) The presence of toxic gases, vapours or fumes.
2.2.10 All persons discharging sewage or waste must have regard for the Town
of Renfrew Sewer Use By-law to regulate the control of waste discharges
to municipal sewers and sewage works within the Limits of the Town of
Renfrew.
2.3 Parking Areas, Driveways and Walkways
2.3.1 All areas used for vehicular traffic and parking shall have a surface
covering of asphalt, concrete, interlocking brick, crushed stone, gravel or a
combination thereof shall be kept in good repair, free of potholes, uneven
sections, snow, ice, dirt, debris, dust or litter. Areas which have an existing
gravel covering or approval to install same as of the effective date of this
by-law are grandfathered.
2.3.2 All areas on the property used for pedestrian traffic shall be maintained at
all times so as to provide safe passage under normal use and weather
conditions.
2.3.3 Proper drainage shall be provided in all parking areas, driveways and
walkways to prevent the pooling of water on the site and the run off of
water onto adjacent lands.
2.3.4 All lighting used to illuminate a parking area, driveway, walkway or the
exterior of a building shall be maintained in a safe, structurally-sound
condition and in working order. All fixtures shall be installed so as to
deflect the light away from adjacent properties.
2.3.5 Where speed bumps have been installed in driveways and parking areas,
they shall be distinctively marked so as to be clearly visible to approaching
traffic.
Page 12 of 23
2.4 Fences, Barriers and Retaining Walls
2.4.1 Fences, barriers and retaining walls shall be maintained:
(i) Safe and structurally sound; and
(ii) In good condition, protected by the application of paint or some other
suitable protective coating of uniform colour, or constructed of a
material that is resistant to deterioration; and
(iii) Shall not exceed a height greater than that permitted in the Town by-
law governing the erection of fences unless with expressed written
permission from the municipality.
2.5 Gantries, Towers, Masts and Antennae
2.5.1 Where permitted by the Town's Comprehensive Zoning By-Law, gantries,
towers, masts and antennae and structures of a similar character shall be
maintained in good repair and in a structurally-sound condition so as not to
become unsafe or hazardous.
2.6 Foundations
2.6.1 The foundations and the foundations walls of a building or structure shall
be structurally sound and maintained in that condition throughout the
service life of the building or structure.
2.6.2 Foundations that have settled shall be adequately repaired to ensure that
the stability of the superstructure is not compromised by the settlement.
2.6.3 All foundation footings shall be provided with adequate subsoil drainage to
prevent the infiltration of moisture.
2.6.4 All cracks in concrete or masonry walls shall be properly grouted.
2.6.5 All exterior surfaces of foundation walls below grade shall be properly
dampen proofed.
2.7 Roofs
2.7.1 The roof of every building or structure shall be structurally sound, weather-
proof, and free of loose or unsecured objects, obstructions, hazards and
excessive accumulations of ice and snow. Improperly secured objects and
materials shall either be made secure or shall be removed.
2.7.2 All roof flashing, gutters, valleys, snow and ice guards, eaves troughs, and
down-pipes shall be secured, free of rust, and maintained in a serviceable
condition.
2.7.3 All soffit and fascia components of a building shall be secured and
maintained in good repair, and properly painted or otherwise treated.
2.8 Chimneys
2.8.1 Every chimney, smoke pipe, vent, flue or similar apparatus serving a
heating device or system shall be:
(i) In good repair, securely anchored and plumb;
(ii) Installed and maintained so as to prevent the escape of smoke or
gases into the building;
(iii) Free from loose or broken masonry;
Page 13 of 23
(iv) Free from open joints; and/or
(v) Clear of obstructions.
2.8.2 Chimneys which are no longer in use shall continue to be maintained to
the standards prescribed in Section 2.8.1 until such time as they are
removed and the roof opening properly sealed.
2.9 Overhanging Extensions
2.9.1 Balconies, porches, canopies, marquees, awnings, screens, grills, pipes,
ducts, air conditioners and all other similar equipment, attachments,
extensions and their supporting members shall be maintained properly and
safely anchored, protected against deterioration, rust or decay, and free
from rubbish and debris.
2.10 Stairs, Fire Escapes and Ramps
2.10.1 An inside or outside stair or any porch, balcony, platform verandah or
landing appurtenant to it and ant ramp shall be maintained so as to be
free from holes, cracks and other defects which may constitute possible
accident hazards and all treads, risers or decking that show excessive
wear or are broken, warped or loose and all supporting structural
members that are rotted or deteriorated shall be repaired or replaced.
2.10.2 Storage of any kind is prohibited on any stairway, fire escape or ramp.
2.10.3 A handrail shall be installed and maintained in good repair on every open
side of a balcony, porch, landing and stair-well, and every stairway and
every exterior landing more than 0.8 m above the adjacent level shall be
equipped with a rigid handrail, guard or balustrade that is in conformance
with the Ontario Building Code, and which shall be maintained in good
repair at all times.
2.10.4 A barrier, such as a balustrade shall be installed and maintained in good
repair on every open side of a balcony, porch, landing, stairwell and
stairway with a rise of 1.5 meters or more.
2.10.5 Subsection (4) does not apply to a stairway leading to a basement that
does not contain a dwelling unit. Subsections (3) and (4) do not apply to a
stairway or stairwell in an owner occupied single family dwelling.
2.11 Elevators
2.11.1 All elevating devices requiring a license shall have a valid and current
license as issued in accordance with the Elevating Devices Act, R.S.O.
1990, as amended.
2.12 Exterior Walls
2.12.1 The exterior walls of every building or structure, or part of a building or
structure, must be structurally sound, maintained in good condition,
weatherproof, free of cracks, loose or unsecured objects or materials and
reasonably resistant to entry by vermin.
2.12.2 All exterior exposed surfaces of a building shall be treated and maintained
with a protective coat of paint or other sealing or coating material to inhibit
deterioration.
2.12.3 Exterior walls of a dwelling and their components shall be free of
unauthorized signs, painted slogans, graffiti and similar defacements.
2.12.4 The use of a tarp or tarps as a permanent exterior wall of a building or
structure is not permitted.
Page 14 of 23
2.13 Interior Walls and Ceilings
2.13.1 Every wall and ceiling in a building shall be maintained so as to be free of
holes, cracks, loose or torn coverings or other defects that may be a
safety hazard.
2.13.2 All paint or other wall covering which is stained or deteriorated shall be
repainted or repaired. Missing wall/ceiling tiles shall be replaced.
2.14 Floors
2.14.1 Every floor in a building shall be reasonably smooth and level, and shall
be maintained so as to be free of broken or rotted boards, protruding
damaged or deteriorating surfaces in a dangerous condition, or surfaces
that might admit vermin into a room.
2.14.2 Every floor in a building shall be maintained so as to be free of moisture
or dampness through infiltration from the exterior.
2.15 Doors, Windows and Security
2.15.1 Windows, doors and hatchways shall be maintained in good repair and be
weathertight. Rotted or damaged doors, doorframes and their
components, window frames, sashes and casings shall be replaced; and
defective hardware, weather stripping, torn screens and broken window
glass shall be repaired.
2.15.2 All security intercom equipment must be kept free of defects and in good
working order.
2.15.3 Where mailboxes are supplied for the use of occupants, they shall be
maintained in good condition and free from defects.
2.16 Heating and Mechanical Systems
2.16.1 In every occupied building, a heating system shall be provided capable
of supplying, during normal hours of occupancy, sufficient heat to
maintain a minimum air temperature of 21 degrees Celsius. Said
requirement does not apply to areas not normally heated.
2.16.2 Heating systems, hot water systems, ventilation/air conditioning systems
and other mechanical systems shall be maintained and operated in
good working order and in a safe condition.
2.16.3 Furnaces, stoves and fireplaces shall be kept clear of obstructions so as
to prevent any combustible material from being heated to unsafe
conditions.
2.16.4 Except in the event of an emergency, portable auxiliary heaters shall not
be used as the primary source of heat within a building. Portable
auxiliary heaters shall not be located so as to present a fire or safety
hazard or to impede the free movement of persons within the building or
room where the heater is located.
2.16.5 Every fuel burning appliance shall be properly connected, exhausted
and vented to the exterior to ensure its safe operation.
2.16.6 Solid fuel appliances shall be installed in conformance with the
manufacturer's installation instructions and/or meet the standards as set
for an uncertified appliance. A chimney, flue, pipe or vent shall be
installed in conformance with the manufacturer's specifications and/or
meet the standard for uncertified equipment.
Page 15 of 23
2.16.7 A space that contains a heating unit shall have natural or mechanical
means of providing the required combustion air.
2.16.8 Containment for the storage of the fuel shall be properly constructed
and maintained in a convenient location so as to be free from hazards.
2.17 Electrical Systems
2.17.1 The connection of an electrical supply system to a building and the
system of circuits and outlets distributing the electrical supply within a
building shall provide adequate capacity for the use and intended use of
a building and such connections, circuits, wiring and outlets along with
any fuses, circuit breakers and other appurtenances thereto, shall be
maintained in good working order, in a safe condition and in compliance
with the requirements of the Ontario Electrical Code.
2.17.2 Extension cords are not permitted on a permanent basis.
2.17.3 The electrical wiring, circuits, fuses, circuit breakers and electrical
equipment, outlets, switches and covers in a building shall be
maintained at all times.
2.18 Fire Protection Equipment
2.18.1 All
fire
protection
equipment,
including
private
fire
hydrants,
sprinkler/standpipe systems, fire hoses and nozzles, fire extinguishers,
fire alarm systems and annunciator panel, and smoke alarms/detectors,
shall be maintained in good working order and free of encumbrances so
as to effectively perform their intended function. Said equipment shall
be installed in conformance to all current codes, standards, legislation
and bylaws and shall be maintained in strict conformity with the
requirements of the Ontario Fire Code and the Renfrew Fire
Department.
2.18.2 No owner or occupant shall:
- Throw, place, bring or deposit snow or ice on or immediately
adjacent to a fire hydrant, sprinkler connection or fire escape;
- In any manner obstructs access to a fire hydrant, sprinkler
connection or fire escape;
- Place plant or place vegetation that will obstruct or restrict access to
a fire hydrant, sprinkler connection or fire escape; and
- Construct or place any apparatus immediately adjacent to a fire
hydrant, sprinkler connection, or fire escape, in a manner that
obstructs access to a fire hydrant, sprinkler connection or fire
escape.
2.18.3 Private fire hydrants and sprinkler/standpipe connections shall be
maintained by the owner in operating condition in accordance with
Ontario Fire Code regulations and shall be readily available and
unobstructed for use at all times. The Town will not undertake to clear
snow on any private hydrants, sprinkler connections or fire escapes.
2.19 Ventilation
2.19.1 Proper ventilation shall be provided and maintained within a building so
as to prevent the accumulation of heat, dust, fumes, gases, vapours or
other contaminants that may create a fire, explosion or health hazard.
2.19.2 Every attic, basement, cellar and unheated crawl space shall have
adequate ventilation.
Page 16 of 23
2.20 Lighting
2.20.1 Sufficient windows, skylights or electrical lighting fixtures shall be
provided and maintained to furnish illumination in public or common
hallways and stairways, whenever the building is in use, and in all
passages provided for use as an emergency exit.
2.21 Buildings and Structures
2.21.1 The owner of any building or structure will maintain the building or
structure in a condition and standard in accordance with this by-law and
the exterior finish or covering will be aesthetically consistent and
complimentary to the immediate surroundings as determined the
Property Standards Officer.
2.22 Vermin Control
2.22.1 Every property shall be maintained so as to be reasonably free from
vermin at all times and methods used for exterminating vermin shall be
in accordance with the provisions of the Pesticide Act, R.S.O. 1973,
Chapter 25 and the amendments thereto and all regulations made
thereunder.
2.22.2 Any opening in a cellar, crawl space or roof space used or intended to
be used for ventilation and any other opening in a cellar, crawl space or
roof space which might admit vermin shall be screened with wire mesh
or other such material in order to be effectively excluding vermin.
PART III - STANDARDS FOR RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY
3.1 Standards of Occupancy
3.1.1 No person shall use or occupy, permit the use or occupancy of, or rent
any residential property that does not conform to the standards of this By-
Law.
3.1.2 A non-habitable room shall not be used as a habitable room.
3.1.3 The maximum number of occupants in a dwelling unit shall not exceed
the capacity of the plumbing system as acceptable to the District Health
Unit.
3.1.4 Every tenant, or occupant or lessee of a residential property shall
maintain the property or part thereof and the land which they occupy or
control, in accordance with this by-law, in a clean, sanitary and safe
condition and shall dispose of garbage and debris on a regular basis, in
accordance with municipal by-laws.
3.1.5 Every tenant, or occupant or lessee of a residential property shall
maintain every floor, wall, ceiling and fixture, under their control,
including hallways, entrances, laundry rooms, utility rooms, and other
common areas; in a clean, sanitary and safe condition.
3.1.6 Accumulations or storage of garbage, refuse, appliances, or furniture in
a means of egress shall not be permitted.
3.2 Means of Egress
3.2.1 Every dwelling and each dwelling unit contained therein shall have a safe,
continuous and unobstructed passage from the interior of the dwelling unit
to the exterior of the building at grade level.
Page 17 of 23
3.2.2 Where a communication system between the dwelling units and the front
lobby have been provided in a building containing two (2) or more
dwelling units, such systems shall be maintained in good operative
condition.
3.2.3 All means of egress within a bed-and-breakfast establishment, group
home, home for the aged, or a building containing five (5) or more
dwelling units shall be provided with clear, unobstructed and readily
visible exit signs maintained in good working order and in conformance
with the Ontario Fire Code.
3.3 Doors, Windows and Security
3.3.1 All exteriors doors in a dwelling unit shall have a solid core and shall have
hardware capable of being locked or secured from inside the dwelling
unit. At least one entrance door in every dwelling unit shall have hardware
so as to be capable of being locked from both inside and outside the
dwelling unit.
3.3.2 All windows that are intended to be opened shall have suitable hardware
so as to allow the window to be locked from inside the dwelling unit.
3.3.3 All windows located about the first storey of a dwelling unit shall be
maintained so as to be safe against accidental hazards to children.
3.4 Plumbing Systems
3.4.1 Every dwelling unit shall be provided with an adequate supply of potable
running water supplied from the Town's water distribution system or,
where this is unavailable, from a source approved by the District Health
Unit.
3.4.2 Hot and cold running water shall be supplied for the bathtub/shower,
washbasin and kitchen sink.
3.4.3 All water pipes and associated plumbing fixtures shall be protected from
freezing.
3.4.4 The sanitary facilities of all buildings shall be connected to the Town's
sewer collection system or, where this is unavailable, it shall be
connected to a proper septic system in accordance with the Official Plan
and Zoning By-law and acceptable to the Chief Building Official.
3.4.5 All plumbing and plumbing fixtures in every building shall be free from
leaks and defects and shall, at all times, conform to the Ontario Building
Code.
3.5 Bathroom and Laundry Facilities
3.5.1 Every dwelling unit shall be provided with at least one bathroom
containing a toilet, a washbasin and a bathtub or shower.
3.5.2 All bathrooms shall be located within and be accessible from within the
dwelling unit.
3.5.3 All bathrooms shall be fully enclosed, with a door capable of being locked
so as to provide privacy for the occupant.
3.5.4 All bathroom fixtures shall be maintained in good working order.
3.5.5 Each bathroom shall be provided with at least one source of natural or
mechanical ventilation conforming to the Ontario Building Code.
Page 18 of 23
3.5.6 No toilet or urinal shall be located in a room that is used or intended to be
used for preparation, cooking, storage, or consumption of food or for
sleeping purposes.
3.5.7 All laundry rooms shall be kept clean and free from health, fire or accident
hazards.
3.5.8 Floors, walls and ceiling in bathrooms and laundry rooms shall be of
material that is impervious to water and easily cleaned and sanitized.
3.6 Kitchens
3.6.1 Every self contained dwelling unit shall have a kitchen area equipped with
cupboards for storing food, a counter top work area, a stove and a
refrigerator, and a sink supplied with hot and cold running water. The
kitchen area and all appliances shall be kept safe and functional.
3.6.2 Counter-top work areas shall be impervious to moisture and grease, and
shall be kept in good condition, free from defects that may cause
accidents or lead to health problems.
3.6.3 Floors, walls and ceilings in kitchens shall be of material that is
impervious to water and easily cleaned and sanitized.
3.7 Accessory Buildings
3.7.1 Accessory buildings and all other structures appurtenant to the property
shall be maintained in a structurally-sound condition and in good repair.
3.7.2 Accessory buildings and all other structures shall be maintained in a safe,
hazard-free condition, free from clutter or the accumulation of rubbish and
debris.
3.7.3 All exterior, exposed surfaces of accessory buildings or structures not
inherently resistant to deterioration shall be maintained so as to provide
adequate protection from weather or vermin.
3.7.4 Accessory buildings and all other structures shall be kept so as not to
present an unsightly appearance.
3.7.5 Fish Huts are not permitted to be stored or used in any front yard or any
interior or exterior side yard if the building is visible from an adjacent
residential property or from public street.
3.8 Garages and Carports
3.8.1 All areas of a garage shall be kept clear of the accumulation of rubbish
and debris or conditions that are unsightly or might create a fire, health or
accident hazard.
3.8.2 Garages shall be provided with a clear and unobstructed exit.
3.8.3 Attached or built-in garages shall be constructed and maintained so as to
prevent noxious gases from entering the habitable areas of the residence.
3.9 Swimming Pools
3.10.1 Swimming pools, wading pools and ponds and any appurtenances
thereto shall be maintained in good repair, free from leaks, and free from
health, unsanitary and safety hazards.
3.10.2 Swimming pools, wading pools and ponds shall be kept clean of
stagnant water and any such areas that are unkempt or unused shall be
drained of all water found therein.
Page 19 of 23
3.10.3 Plumbing fixtures and hydraulic lines servicing swimming pools shall be
installed in accordance with the Ontario Building Code.
3.10.4 Electrical fixtures and power lines servicing swimming pools shall be
installed in accordance with the Ontario Electrical Code.
PART IV - STANDARDS FOR NON-RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY
4.1 General
4.1.1 Commercial, industrial and institutional properties shall be maintained in
conformance with the general standards prescribed in this By-Law.
4.1.2 Conditions of occupancy of commercial, industrial and institutional
buildings shall be in accordance with all applicable provincial regulations
pertinent to their intended use and application.
4.1.3 Commercial, industrial and institutional properties shall be maintained in
accordance with their site plan control agreements with the Town.
4.2 Signs
4.2.1 Signs shall be maintained in good repair, and any signs that are
excessively weathered, faded or cracked shall be repaired or removed.
4.2.2 Exterior signs that are unused, uncared for or discarded shall be removed
forthwith from the property, or shall be stored within a building on the
property.
4.2.3 All signage shall adhere to the Town's by-law governing signs.
PART V - STANDARDS FOR VACANT LANDS AND BUILDINGS
5.1 Vacant Lands
5.1.1 Vacant land shall be maintained to the standards as described in Part II,
Section 2.1 of this By-Law.
5.1.2 Vacant land shall be graded, filled or otherwise drained so as to prevent
recurrent ponding of water.
5.2 Vacant Buildings
5.2.1 Vacant or unoccupied buildings shall be protected against the risk of fire,
accident or other damage.
5.2.2 Vacant buildings shall be kept cleared of all garbage, rubbish and debris;
and shall have all water, electrical and other services disconnected
except those services that are required for the security and maintenance
of the property.
5.2.3 The Owner of a vacant building shall board up the building to the
satisfaction of the Officer by covering all openings through which entry
may be attained with material approved to the satisfaction of the Property
Standards Officer.
5.2.4 Any part of a vacant building that cannot be boarded up due to its
physical condition shall be removed forthwith.
Page 20 of 23
5.3 Demolition
5.3.1 No person shall commence, conduct or permit to be commenced or
conducted any work in the nature of demolition or removal of a building or
part thereof, unless a permit is obtained therefore from the Chief Building
Official in compliance with the Ontario Building Code, and such permit
shall be posted in a prominent position on the demolition site.
5.3.2 The Owner of any building or part thereof being demolished, shall leave
any remaining wall or walls (including any former party walls or walls,
whether separately or jointly owned) structurally sound and weather tight,
in a safe condition and in conformity with the standards in the Ontario
Building Code.
5.3.3 Upon completion of demolition, the entire site shall be cleared and
cleaned of all debris, left free from holes or excavations and provided and
maintained with a suitable ground cover.
PART VI - ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT
6.1 General
6.1.1 The Town shall administer and enforce this By-Law as prescribed by the
Ontario Building Code Act; S.O. 1992, c.23 Section 15 as amended.
6.1.2 The Officer may prohibit the occupancy or use of any property that does
not conform to the standards prescribed in this By-Law.
6.1.3 The Officer may utilize various reports and forms in the administration and
enforcement of this By-law which can be revised as deemed required by
the Officer, including but not limited to:
o An inspection report;
o Re-inspection report;
o Order to Remedy Violation;
o Order to Comply;
o Notice to Appeal;
o Decision Following Appeal; or
o Other such report or form
6.2 Property Standards Officer
6.2.1 Council may, from time to time, appoint Officers to carry out the
administrative function of this By-Law. On appointment, the Officers shall
have full responsibility and authority of administration as provided by the
Ontario Building Code Act.
6.2.2 Any building inspector, plumbing inspector, electrical inspector, public
health inspector, fire prevention officer or by-law enforcement officer of
the Town is hereby authorized and directed to act from time to time as an
assistant to the Officer.
6.2.3 The Property Standards Officer, or any person acting under his direction,
may at all reasonable times, upon producing proper identification, enter
and inspect any property. The Officer or his designate shall not enter any
room or place actually used as a dwelling without the consent of the
Occupant except under the authority of a search warrant issued under
Section 21 of the Ontario Building Code Act.
6.2.4 No person shall obstruct or attempt to obstruct an Officer or a person
acting under the Officer's instruction, in the exercise of his duties.
Page 21 of 23
6.3 Property Standards Committee
6.3.1 Council shall appoint a Property Standards Committee for a term of office
concurrent with Council.
6.3.2 Council shall maintain the full membership of the Property Standards
Committee by replacing any member who, for any reason, may fail to
serve out his or her term of office.
6.3.3 The duties and responsibilities of the Property Standards Committee shall
be as dictated in the Ontario Building Code Act.
6.4 Appealing an Order
6.4.1 Every person wishing to appeal an Order made under Subsection 15.2 (2)
of the Ontario Building Code Act, R.S.O. 1992, c.23, as amended, shall
submit a notice of appeal in the manner and within the time frame as
prescribed in Subsection 15.3(1) of the Ontario Building Code Act. All
notices of appeal shall be accompanied by a non-refundable payment of
one hundred fifty dollars ($150.00).
6.5 Power of the Corporation to Repair or Demolish
6.5.1 If the Owner or Occupant of a property fails to repair or to demolish the
property in accordance with an Order, the Town may cause the property
to be repaired or demolished accordingly.
6.5.2 For the purposes of Subsection 6.5.1 employees or agents of the Town
may enter the property at any reasonable time without a warrant in order
to repair or demolish the property.
6.5.3 The Town will not be liable to compensate an Owner, Occupant or any
other person having an interest in the property by reason of any action
performed by or on behalf of the Town under the provisions of this By-
Law.
6.5.4 The Town shall have a lien on the land for the amount spent on the repair
or demolition under Subsection 6.5.1, and the amount shall be deemed to
be municipal real property taxes and may be added by the Treasurer to
the collector's roll and collected in the same manner and with the same
priorities as municipal real property taxes.
6.6 Emergency Powers
6.6.1 Notwithstanding any other provisions in this By-Law, if upon inspection of
a property, the Officer is satisfied that there is a non-conformity with the
standards prescribed in the By-Law to such extent as to pose an
immediate danger to the health or safety of any person, the Officer may
make an Order containing particulars of the non-conformity and requiring
immediate remedial repairs or other work to be carried out forthwith to
terminate the danger.
6.6.2 After making an Order under Section 6.6.1, the Officer may, either before
or after the Order is served, take or cause to be taken any measures
considered necessary to terminate the danger; and for this purpose, the
Town has the right, through its employees or agents, to enter upon the
property at any reasonable time.
6.6.3 The Officer, Town, or anyone acting on behalf of the Town is not liable to
compensate the Owner, Occupant, or any other person by reason of
anything done by or on behalf of the Town in the reasonable exercise of
its power under Section 6.6.2.
Page 22 of 23
6.7 Penalties
6.7.1 Any person who contravenes any provision of this by-law is guilty of an
offence, and upon conviction is liable to the penalties as provided for in the
Provincial Offences Act, R.S.0. 1990, c. P. 33, as amended (Schedule "A")
6.8 Validity
6.8.1 If an article of this By-Law is held to be invalid for any reason, the
remaining provisions in the By-Law shall remain in effect until repealed.
6.8.2 Where the provisions of this By-Law conflict with the provisions of another
by-law in force in the Town, the provisions that establish the higher
standards of health, safety and welfare of the general public shall prevail.
6.9 Repeal
6.9.1 By-law No. 12-2000, as amended, and any other by-laws, resolutions or
parts of by-law or resolutions inconsistent with this by-law are hereby
repealed.
6.10 Commencement
6.10.1 That this By-law shall come into force and effect on the day of its
passing.
Read a first and second time this 12th day of April, 2016.
Read a third time and finally passed this 12th day of April, 2016.
Don Eady, Mayor
Kim R. Bulmer, Clerk
Page 23 of 23
SCHEDULE "A"
TOWN OF RENFREW
PROPERTY STANDARDS BY-LAW NO. 20-2016
Set Fines Under Part I of the Provincial Offences Act
ITEM
SHORT FORM WORDING
PROVISIONS CREATING
or DEFINING OFFENCE
SET
FINE
1
Owner or Occupant - Littering
Section 1.8.1.
$100.
2
Deposit debris on Municipal Property
Section 1.8.2
$250.
3
Place Refuse Containers Contrary to
specified times
Section 1.9.3
$100.
4
Occupant Fail to Maintain Property in
accordance with section:
_____________
Section 3.1.4.
$250.
5
Occupant Fail to Maintain Residence
Under his/her control.
Section 3.1.5.
$250.
6
Obstruct Egress
Section 3.1.6.
$100.
The penalty provision for the offences indicated above is Section 6.7.1 of By-law 20-
2016, a certified copy of which has been filed.