What makes a property unsightly
A property is considered unsightly when it is not kept in a clean and safe condition. Common issues include overgrown grass and weeds taller than thirty centimetres, piles of junk or debris, broken fences or sheds, illegal dumping of waste, and abandoned vehicles. These problems can attract pests, lower property values, and create safety hazards for your neighbours.
How to report it
If you see an unsightly property in your neighbourhood, you can report it through the Service Wrenford online form. The form takes about two minutes to complete and gives you a tracking number so you can follow up on the case. You can also call Wrenford 311 at 519-555-0100 during business hours to file a verbal report. Please provide the exact address, a description of the issue, and any photos if you have them.
What happens next
Once a report is filed, a by-law officer reviews the information and visits the property to inspect the condition. Officers work under the By-laws that keep our neighbourhoods clean and safe. If the property does not meet the required standards, the officer will leave a compliance order at the door. This order gives the property owner a set number of days—usually fourteen to thirty—to clean up the yard, remove the junk, or fix the damage. The officer will also mail a copy of the order to the owner. If the owner does not act within the deadline, the City may step in to fix the problem and charge the owner for the work. In serious cases, the City can also issue a fine under the Provincial Offences Act.
Fees and rules
There is no fee to report an unsightly property. However, if the City has to hire contractors to clear debris, mow the grass, or demolish an unsafe structure, the owner will be billed for those services. Fines for failing to follow a compliance order start at $250.00 for a first offence and can go up to $10,000.00 for repeat violations. All fines are recorded under the Traffic and Parking By-law 2014-075 and related provincial offences schedules.
Contact By-law Enforcement
For questions about the reporting process or to check the status of a complaint, contact the By-law Enforcement office. You can reach Manager Noah Feldman's team by email at [email protected] or by phone at 519-555-0100. The office is located in Room 310 at Wrenford City Hall, 100 Mercer Street. Office staff are available Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.