By-Law Complaints

The Clean and Clear by-law regulates the cleaning and clearing of land, including long grass and weeds. The length of grass and weeds cannot exceed 20 centimetres (eight inches) on properties in Clarington.

If you come across a property where grass and weeds exceed eight inches, you can file a complaint online. You will need to provide specific addresses and other details.

After we receive your complaint, a Municipal Law Enforcement Officer will attend the site to investigate. If warranted, the Officer will provide the property owner with a written order requiring compliance with the by-law within a specified time. After the specified time, the Officer re-inspects the property. If the problem still exists, we will call a contractor to bring the property up to standard. We will then invoice the property owner for the cost.

The Noise by-law regulates noise and sound across the Municipality. Specifically, it outlines acceptable levels of sound that likely won't disturb other residents. For example, you cannot play music at an excessive volume or in a manner that will disturb the peace, quiet or comfort of any other resident in Clarington.

You can file a noise complaint by filling out the online form. If you wish to have charges laid against someone for violating the by-law, you will be required to attend court and give evidence. We cannot process a charge without you.

The Property Standards By-law sets a minimum standard for property owners to maintain their buildings and properties. We enforce the by-law to protect the health and safety of occupants, the environment and the value of the lands.

File a property standards complaint

Complaint process

Once we receive a complaint, an officer will inspect the property to see if it follows the standards set out in the by-law. If the property violates the by-law, an Order may be issued requiring the landowner to make any necessary changes or fixes to adhere to the regulations.

If the work is not completed, the Municipality may step in to do the necessary work at the property owner's expense. The cost incurred will be added to the Municipal Tax Roll. Charges may also be laid with a maximum fine, upon conviction, of $50,000 for a first offence for an individual and $100,000 for a corporation.

Right to appeal

The property owner has a right to appeal an Order. The cost of filing an appeal is $100, with half ($50) refunded if the owner appears at the Appeal Hearing.

We require any Property Standards complaint to be submitted in writing using the form below. This material is confidential and will not be shared with the property owner.

If you're looking for more information on the by-law or want to file a property standards complaint, please contact the Municipal Law Enforcement Division.

File an appeal to the Property Standards Committee

Sidewalk snow removal

Residents are responsible for clearing sidewalks bordering their property after a snowfall. Residents have 24 hours to clear sidewalks after the end of a snowfall. We will only review complaints about snowy sidewalks after the 24-hour window expires. For a detailed list of snow removal guidelines and applicable fines, please read our sidewalk and snow removal information.