Frequently Requested By-laws

By-law 5503/100/10 regulates the use and enjoyment of municipal parks in Port Colborne. It establishes rules for permitted activities, park facilities, public conduct and the protection of park property. The by-law helps ensure parks remain safe, clean and accessible for residents and visitors, while outlining restrictions and penalties for prohibited activities.

By-law 6979/17/22 establishes the rules and procedures for Port Colborne City Council and committee meetings. It outlines how meetings are called and conducted, including agendas, motions, voting, public participation and the responsibilities of Council members. The by-law helps ensure municipal meetings are conducted consistently and transparently.

By-law 7189/12/24 establishes minimum standards for the maintenance and occupancy of properties in Port Colborne. It outlines property owner responsibilities for maintaining buildings, yards, structures and essential services in a safe and suitable condition. The by-law also establishes inspection, enforcement and appeal procedures to address properties that do not meet these standards.

By-law 4322/158/02 establishes licensing requirements for public garages in Port Colborne, including vehicle repair shops, service facilities and certain vehicle storage or sales operations. It outlines licence application requirements, municipal inspections and responsibilities for owners and operators. The by-law helps ensure these businesses comply with applicable municipal regulations.

By-law 5256/11/09 prohibits activities that create public nuisances in Port Colborne. It addresses behaviours such as fighting, public urination, spitting, graffiti and damaging public property. The by-law helps maintain safe, clean and welcoming public spaces and includes enforcement provisions and penalties for violations.

By-law 5228/134/08 regulates the use and management of sanitary sewers and drainage systems in Port Colborne. It establishes requirements for sewer connections, wastewater discharge, stormwater drainage and maintenance responsibilities. The by-law also prohibits activities that could damage municipal infrastructure, obstruct drainage systems or negatively affect public health and the environment.

By-law 7388/79/25 regulates the licensing and operation of short-term rental accommodations in Port Colborne. It establishes licence application and renewal requirements, operating standards and responsibilities for property owners and operators. The by-law also outlines inspections, enforcement measures and penalties to help protect public safety and neighbourhoods.

By-law 4738/120/05 regulates the installation, placement and maintenance of signs and advertising devices in Port Colborne. It establishes requirements for different types of signs, including their size, location, construction and permits. The by-law helps ensure signs are installed safely and comply with municipal regulations.

By-law 5528/125/10 regulates changes to land in Port Colborne, including removing topsoil, placing or dumping fill, and changing the grade or elevation of property. It establishes permit requirements, exemptions and conditions for site alteration activities to help manage drainage, prevent erosion and protect neighbouring properties and the environment.

By-law 7367/58/25 establishes a parking permit system for designated streets and parking lots during special events in Port Colborne. It outlines permit requirements, designated parking areas, restrictions and enforcement provisions to help manage vehicle parking during events such as Canal Days and other municipally recognized activities.

By-law 4843/68/06, as amended, regulates the installation, construction and maintenance of swimming pools in Port Colborne. It outlines requirements for pool locations, setbacks, fencing, gates and safety measures, as well as permits and inspections. The by-law also includes provisions for requesting relief from certain requirements and penalties for non-compliance, helping ensure swimming pools are installed and maintained safely.

By-law 7448/32/36 establishes the property tax rates for Port Colborne for 2026. It sets the municipal tax rates for different property classes, including residential, commercial and industrial properties, based on the City's approved budget. The by-law also includes tax rates for Niagara Region, education and other applicable levies.

By-law 4321/157/02 regulates the licensing and operation of trailer camps in Port Colborne. It establishes requirements for obtaining a licence, operating trailer camps and maintaining facilities. The by-law outlines responsibilities for owners and operators, including compliance with municipal regulations and applicable safety standards.

By-law 6175/01/15 regulates the planting, maintenance, protection and removal of trees on or affecting City property in Port Colborne. It outlines responsibilities for caring for municipal trees, managing hazardous trees and protecting trees from damage. The by-law also establishes procedures for tree inspections, removal and enforcement to help maintain a healthy and safe urban forest.

By-law 7191/14/24 establishes requirements for registering vacant buildings in Port Colborne. It outlines property owner responsibilities for registration, inspections, maintenance and securing vacant buildings against unauthorized entry and deterioration. The by-law helps address safety concerns and neighbourhood impacts associated with vacant properties and includes enforcement provisions for non-compliance.