One of the best things about living in Calgary is the opportunity to have and be a good neighbour. Aside from regular friendly greetings and a helping hand every now and then, you should also comply with city bylaws to help make your neighbourhood a safe and pleasant place to live. Bylaws are rules and guidelines established by the City of Calgary. They are designed specifically to help protect public health and safety as well as the environment on both public and private property.
The four most common types of bylaws that that affect homeowners, renters, and landlords in Calgary address property maintenance, property development, public behaviour, and responsible pet ownership.
The bylaws that affect property maintenance cover things like:
- size and location of hedges, shrubs, and trees;
- snow and ice removal;
- weeds; and
- accumulation of garbage, dilapidated vehicles, and materials on a property.
Do your best to keep your own property tidy and safe. If you notice a neighbour struggling to do the same, offer to help out!
The bylaws that affect property development cover things like:
- fences,
- structures including detached garages and workshops,
- balconies, and
- decks.
When you are getting ready to build a structure on your property, contact the City of Calgary to make sure that your structure is in accordance with the applicable bylaws.
The bylaws that affect public behaviour include things like:
- excessive noise, and
- spitting.
Some of your neighbours might work the night shift and others may have small children that are trying to sleep. While it is encouraged to be outside and enjoying your property, make sure that any machinery or music is not so loud that it disrupts those around you.
The bylaws that help promote responsible pet ownership include:
- licensing for cats and dogs,
- regularly cleaning and properly disposing of pet waste from the yard, and
- ensuring pets are not a nuisance due to excessive barking and howling.
Responsible pet ownership is just common sense. If you are worried that your own pet might be loud while you are out, you can ask a neighbour to let you know if they hear any barking or howling. If they do, be sure to look into some safe, effective solutions and thank your neighbour for their help!
The City of Calgary bylaws are in place to keep this great city running as smoothly as possible. To learn more, check them out on the city’s website.