An amendment to Airdrie’s Community Standards Bylaw means the City will be better able to enforce policy regarding the maintenance of homes and businesses, and the boulevards adjacent to those properties.
“The section that deals with snow clearing on sidewalks…is effective and enforceable,” said Lynn Mackenzie, team lead with Municipal Enforcement, during a presentation to council at a meeting Aug. 19. “However, the section pertaining to how properties should be kept concerning the length of grass is not as strong and needs to be strengthened in order for it to be enforced.”
The policy also covers concerns regarding derelict vehicles, messy or smelly compost and loose garbage or other litter, she added. In order to “tighten up” this provision, according to Mackenzie, administration proposed several amendments to add more specific definitions and to clarify the responsibilities of property owners.
“Homeowners and businesses are responsible for maintaining their homes and yards, as well as the boulevards surrounding their homes,” she said, noting a “municipal boulevard” refers to the portion of land between the curb and the adjoining property boundary – even when this space is separated by a sidewalk.
Third reading to the updated bylaw was carried unanimously. Coun. Kelly Hegg was not present at the meeting.
