Report a By-law Concern

Once a complaint is received, City staff will review the information and determine the appropriate next steps.

Complaints are prioritized based on factors such as health and safety, potential property damage, impacts on residents and the surrounding neighbourhood, previous complaints and available resources.

Depending on the nature of the concern, a Municipal Law Enforcement Officer may attend the property or location to investigate.

The City generally seeks voluntary compliance first. This means an officer may contact the individual or property owner, explain the violation and provide a reasonable amount of time to correct the issue.

If the issue is not resolved, further enforcement action may be taken. Depending on the circumstances and applicable by-law, this could include issuing a notice or order, laying a charge, issuing a penalty or arranging for required work to be completed by the City at the property owner's expense.

The time required to investigate and resolve a complaint will vary depending on the nature and complexity of the issue.

Some concerns can be addressed quickly, while others may require additional inspections, investigation, correspondence or legal proceedings. Complaints involving health and safety concerns or other significant impacts may be given a higher priority.

The City does not routinely identify complainants during an investigation. However, information provided to the City is subject to applicable privacy and access to information legislation. In some circumstances, a complainant may also be required to participate in legal proceedings.

Staff can provide general information about the status of a complaint. However, privacy and legal requirements may limit the information the City can share about an investigation or enforcement action involving another individual or property.

Not every neighbourhood or property dispute is regulated by a municipal by-law.

Issues involving property lines, ownership, private agreements or other civil disputes may need to be resolved privately. Some concerns may also fall under the responsibility of another agency or level of government.

If you're unsure, contact By-law Enforcement and staff can help determine the appropriate next steps.

For an emergency or situation where there is an immediate threat to public safety, call 911.

Yes. If you would like to request a change to an existing by-law or propose a new by-law, contact our Customer Service team. Staff will review your request and provide information about the appropriate process.

Visit our Frequently Requested By-laws page to search and view City of Port Colborne by-laws.