Oshawa Approves New By-Laws on Property Maintenance

Oshawa Council has approved property maintenance and yard care by-laws designed to keep neighbourhoods safe, clean and visually appealing.

The rules set clearer expectations for property owners and explain their responsibilities when it comes to maintaining homes, yards, boulevards and landscaped areas.

Clear Standards for Property Upkeep

The City of Oshawa says the by-laws are meant to support safety, maintenance, beautification and livability across the community. These standards apply to all property owners and are intended to create consistent rules for maintaining private properties and adjoining boulevards.

Common Yard Maintenance Requirements

Property owners are expected to keep their properties in a safe, clean and orderly condition.

Common requirements include trimming hedges and tree branches so they do not block sidewalks or create hazards for pedestrians, cyclists or vehicles.

Residents must also maintain shrubs, bushes and other vegetation at a reasonable height to protect visibility and improve neighbourhood appearance.

Grass, Weeds and Waste Must Be Managed

The city also requires property owners to cut grass and remove weeds regularly.

Garbage, waste and debris must be cleared from properties, and stagnant or standing water must be removed when it creates health, safety or environmental concerns.

Natural features and landscaped areas must also be properly maintained to help preserve the character and appearance of the community.

City Says Rules Support Safe and Livable Communities

Oshawa says consistent property maintenance standards help address community concerns while supporting residents in caring for their properties responsibly.

The city is encouraging residents to review the rules that apply to their properties and take the necessary steps to stay compliant.

Adequate Heat By-Law

The Adequate Heat By-law requires rented or leased living accommodations to maintain a minimum air temperature of at least 22 C between September 1 and June 15.

This rule is intended to protect tenants during colder months.

Boulevard By-Law

The Boulevard By-law covers issues involving hedges, trees and vegetation that extend over sidewalks.

It also regulates the height of shrubs and plants on boulevards. Oshawa also provides information about assistance for grass cutting and snow removal.

Fence and Sight Triangle By-Law

The Fence and Sight Triangle By-law regulates fence heights and the height of natural features such as hedges, shrubs and plants.

These rules help preserve visibility near intersections, driveways and other areas where blocked sightlines could create safety concerns.

Lot Maintenance By-Law

The Lot Maintenance By-law deals with common exterior property issues.

These include long grass and weeds, waste and debris, stagnant or standing water, and graffiti.

Property Standards By-Law

The Property Standards By-law covers broader building and housing conditions.

It includes requirements related to plumbing and drainage, exterior and interior walls, heating and ventilation systems, air conditioning systems, toilets and washroom facilities, handrails, guards, roofs and roof structures.

Apartment Inspections and Tenant Requests

Apartment building inspections take place regularly in Oshawa.

Tenants can also request a unit inspection at any time by contacting Service Oshawa by phone or email.

Reporting Property Concerns

Residents who notice property-related concerns can report them to Service Oshawa.

The city says community members may contact Service Oshawa online, by email or by phone at 905-436-3311.

Oshawa’s property maintenance and yard care by-laws give residents and property owners clearer guidance on how homes, yards, boulevards and buildings should be maintained.

From trimming hedges and cutting grass to removing waste, controlling standing water and ensuring proper heating in rental units, the rules are designed to improve safety, cleanliness and neighbourhood appearance.

Residents are encouraged to review the requirements and stay compliant to help keep Oshawa communities healthy, safe and attractive.