Prohibits undesirable material on lots: refuse, weeds over 20cm, inoperative/unplated vehicles, restricts firewood storage and compost placement, limits uncovered fill to 30 days without a permit.
Property maintenance — Waterloo, Ontario
What are the rules on junk, derelict cars, and unsightly property?
The City of Waterloo, Ontario has 3 adopted bylaws on file: Lot Maintenance Bylaw No. 2011-123 (consolidated, last amended by By-law 2023-098); Property Standards Bylaw No. 2011-122; Securing Vacant Buildings Bylaw No. 2016-031, verified 2026-08-23.
Minimum property maintenance/occupancy standards: structural soundness, drainage/landscaping, heat/lighting/pest control for rental units, heritage-property preservation; inspection, order and appeal process.
Lets city officers order owners to secure vacant/fire-damaged buildings against entry within 2-5 business days; city may do the work and recover costs via the tax roll; fines up to $5,000.