Bylaw Enforcement

The role of the Bylaw Enforcement Officer includes education, investigation and enforcement of all Bylaws within the Township. It is not necessary for a Bylaw Enforcement Officer to attend each site to carryout enforcement procedures. Usually the officer will rely on information provided by the complainant.

For more information on Township By-Laws, please visit our By-Laws page.

Common Enforcement of By-laws

When to notify the Police

You should report any criminal activity directly to the Ontario Provincial Police, such as:

Vandalism
Trespassing
Driving Complaints
Domestic Disputes
Littering

Residents can also report a crime online using the OPP Report a Crime online form.

Reporting a By-law Issue

It is always best if neighbours, residents and visitors can respectfully resolve their issues without the need for Bylaw Enforcement. If possible, discuss the problem with your neighbour. Remember to focus on the issue, listen to their concerns, and look for mutually beneficial solutions.

If your efforts to resolve the matter with your neighbour have been unsuccessful, the Township's Bylaw Enforcement team may be able to assist in resolving the issue. Contact the Bylaw Enforcement Team to learn about the Township's Bylaws and if they apply to your situation.

Submit your complaint

To file a formal complaint with the By-Law Enforcement Officer, please use one of the following methods.

Online

A written complaint can be completed using the Report a Concern Form.

Mail

A written complaint or completed complaint forms can be submitted by mail to the Township of Ramara Administration Office.

Mailing address: 2297 Highway 12, PO Box 130, Brechin, Ontario, L0K 1B0

In Person

A written complaint or completed complaint form can be dropped off to the Township Administration Office.

Process

Ramara Township will act on written complaints from the general public concerning alleged bylaw violations. Our Enforcement Officers will offer assistance and direction with respect to bylaw concerns; however, an investigation will only be initiated once the complaint is received in writing. Your personal information will be kept confidential; however should the matter proceed to Court, it may be necessary for you to attend as a witness to the violation.

Upon receipt of the written complaint, the Bylaw Enforcement Officer will conduct an investigation to determine the validity of the complaint and the nature of the infraction relative to our existing bylaws. You will be advised accordingly whether or not the complaint is valid or refer you to another government agency to assist you.

If the matter is rectified, the investigation will be closed. If the bylaw infraction continues, proper paperwork must be completed, and individuals will be provided with time for compliance. If compliance can't be achieved through education and assistance from the township, the Bylaw Enforcement Officer may undertake legal action.

Appeals

An appeal can be made for infractions or Administrative Monetary Penalties related to the following by-laws:

Bylaw 2020.11 Short-Term Rental Accommodation Bylaw;
Bylaw 2020.16 Shorewall Bylaw;
Bylaw 2021.46 - Long Grass Bylaw; Bylaw 2023.44 - Amended Long Grass Bylaw
Bylaw 2005.76 Canine Control Bylaw;
Bylaw 2013.20 Business Licensing Bylaw; and
Future bylaws adopted by Ramara Council with appeal provisions.

A request for an appeal must be submitted to the Township in person or by mail within 15 days after receipt of a penalty notice. The date on the notice is considered to be day one (1). If mailing in the request, please ensure it is received within the 15 day time frame.

Learn about how to make an appeal and the Appeals Tribunal