What the bylaws cover
Public streets belong to everyone. The Street Use By-law and related rules make sure roads stay safe, clear, and open for all drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. These rules stop people from blocking sidewalks, leaving junk on the road, or running private businesses without permission.
When you need a permit
If your project or business will take up space on a public street, you usually need a Street Use Permit. You apply through Planning & Development. The standard application fee is $75.00. Permits are needed for:
- Construction work or excavations that use the street
- Street fairs, festivals, or community events
- Vending, busking, or selling goods on the sidewalk
- Placing dumpsters, scaffolding, or temporary structures on the street
Keeping streets clear and safe
Even without a permit, you must follow basic street rules. You cannot:
- Park or store vehicles, trailers, or building materials on the street without authorization
- Leave hoses, cables, or cords across the sidewalk or road
- Dump litter, dirt, or construction debris onto the street
- Direct water from your eavestroughs onto the road
- Use tractors or heavy machinery with cleats or tracks on the road
Penalties for violations
Breaking these rules can lead to fines. The City enforces these by-laws to keep our streets safe. Examples of penalties include:
- $150.00 fine for unauthorized vending or soliciting on a street
- $200.00 fine for storing materials or equipment on a street without a permit
- Higher fines or court action for serious violations, like damaging street infrastructure or blocking emergency access
How to report an issue or ask a question
If you see a violation or want to apply for a permit, contact By-law Enforcement or the Roads team. You can call 311 (inside the city) or 519-555-0100. You can also email [email protected]. To read the full text of any municipal by-law, visit Find a by-law.