An Information Guide for Residents of Guelph...Good Neighbour Tip Let your neighbours know if...

An Information Guide for Residents of Guelph

Welcome to the Good Neighbours, Great Neighbourhoods Residents’ Guide – a resource to inform new and existing residents about City of Guelph regulations, services and amenities. Inside, you’ll find valuable information about parking, waste collection, property standards, neighbourhood groups, and special highlights of our wonderful city.

As always, we welcome your feedback. Let us know what you think about the Residents’ Guide by contacting Community Design and Development Services at 519-837-5616 or by e-mail at [email protected]

The information presented in this guide does not constitute a legal document and is subject to change from time to time, as approved by Guelph City Council. This guide is to be used for information purposes only. If you wish to obtain copies of the actual City by-laws summarized in this guide please contact the City Clerks Office at 519-837-5603.May, 2007

Welcome

Karen FarbridgeMayor

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Table of Contents

Introduction to the Guide 4

Regulations and By-laws Noise Control By-Law 6Parking Regulations in Guelph 8What to do With Waste 10Planning Your City 14Fire Safety and Prevention 18Property Standards By-Law 20Building and Renovations 22Snow Clearing 26Garage Sales 27Water Conservation 28Pets and Pet Owners 30

City Services Neighbourhood Groups 32City of Guelph Facilities 34Volunteering in Guelph 36Wards and City Council 37Guelph Transit 38

Contacts for City Services 39

4 Good Neighbours, Great Neighbourhoods

Goals of this GuideThis guide has been created to give you a better understanding of how your City operates, what services and opportunities are available, and how you can help improve your neighbourhood. Topics included are important City by-laws, and programs and services that apply to residential neighbourhoods in the City of Guelph. We hope this guide will:

• Deliverusefulinformationtonewandexistingresidents• Increasepublicawarenessandcreateastrongercommunity• Improveresidents’understandingoftheirresponsibilitiesand

opportunities in their neighbourhoods• EnhancecommunityknowledgeofCityrolesandservices

Introduction to the Guide

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Good Neighbour TipGettoknowyourneighbours.Introduceyourself,talktothem,youmay find out you have something in common.

Good Neighbours Make Great Neighbourhoods!Guelph is a great place to live. We have many diverse old and new neighbourhoods, each with its own character and style. What really makesaneighbourhoodgreatarethepeople that live in it and the effort theymaketomaintainandenhancetheir community. Being a good neighbouriseasyandmakeslivinginyour community more enjoyable.

Respect for others is important to being a good neighbour. As residents of the City of Guelph we are all entitled to the continued enjoyment of our homes and properties.

The City of Guelph has by-laws in place regulating neighbourhood concerns such as property maintenance,noiseandparking.These by-laws are usually enforced onacomplaintbasis.Ifyouhaveconcerns about a property or the behaviour of some residents in your neighbourhood, please contact City staff for more information and assistance in resolving the issue.

Thenextfewpageswilloutlinesomeof the regulations and by-laws that keepGuelphneighbourhoodsgreat.


Within the City, noise is regulated by the Noise Control By-Law. “Noise” is definedintheBy-lawassoundthatisofsuchavolumeornaturethatitislikelyto disturb residents of the City of Guelph.

In general, no person shall at any time cause any noise created by:• Anelectronicdevicewhichproducesmusicorsoundsuchasaradio,

television, stereo or musical instrument;• Persistentbarkingofadog;• Vehicle-relatednoisesuchassquealingofvehicletiresoridlingofa

motorvehicleinexcessof10minutes;• Ahorn,whistle,bellorgong

Other noises are prohibited at certain times of the day:• Yelling,shoutingorthelikeisprohibitedinresidentialareas

after11p.m.• Theoperationofanytoolincludinghammer,saw,nailgun,lawnmower,

hedgetrimmer,orthelike,isprohibitedinresidentialareasafter9p.m. andbefore7a.m.(9a.m.onweekends).

Noise Control By-law

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Good Neighbour TipLetyourneighboursknow ifyou’rehavingaparty,beconsiderate of their schedules andkeepthenoiseand music down in respect.

Noise problems in your neighbourhoodNoise issues are responded to by GuelphPoliceonacomplaintbasis. Ifitisthefirstoffence,theoffendergenerally receives a warning. Subsequentcomplaintsresultinbeingcharged with an offence which can result in a fine or court appearance.

To report a noise complaint, call Guelph Police Services at 519-824-1212.

For more informationFor more information about the NoiseControlBy-lawvisittheCity’swebsite at guelph.ca > quick link “bylaws” or contact the City Clerk’s Office at 519-837-5603.


Parking in residential neighbourhoodsThe Zoning By-law regulates or prohibits:

• drivewaywidths• parkingongrassorinfrontyards• parkinginresidentialzonesforoversizedvehicles

thatexceedheightandweightrestrictionsFor more information please contact Community Design and Development Services-Building Services at 519-837-5615.

On-street parking On-streetparkingisnotpermittedovernightbetween2a.m.and6a.m.unlessotherwiseposted.Ifyouneedtoparkyourvehicleonthestreetovernight,alimitednumberofexemptionsareavailableyear-roundbycallingParking Exemptions at 519-836-PASS (7277).

Parking regulations to remember• DonotparkinareasmarkedNo Parking or Public Loading unless actually

engaged in the loading or unloading of passengers or goods.• Pleasehavefour-wayflasherson.PublicLoadingzonesarelimitedto15

minutes.NoparkingorstoppingatANYtimeinaNoStoppingzone.• BusStopsareonlyforauthorizedbuses.Noparkingorstoppingofany

vehicle is allowed.• Vehiclemustbeparkedatleast3metres(118inches)fromafirehydrant.• Vehiclemustbeparkedatleast1metre(39inches)fromadrivewayorlaneway.• Donotparkavehiclewithwheelsfurtherthan0.3metres(11inches)from

the curb or on the wrong side of the road facing oncoming traffic.• Noparkingallowedonanycitystreetbetween2a.m.and6a.m.unless

otherwise posted.• Donotparkonanysidewalk,boulevard,grassedarea,orinadriveway

parallel to the road.• Donotleavevehicleparkedinexcessof18consecutivehoursindowntown

parkinglotsor48consecutivehoursintheEastorWestParkadesoronanycity street.

• VehiclesinaspacereservedforthephysicallydisabledmusthaveavisibleProvincialPermit.(Parkingfeesmustbepaid).

• Donotparkavehicleinanon-designatedarea,orinanyaisleorroadway,orusing2spaces.

Parking Regulations in Guelph

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Guelph FactsGuelph is one of Canada’sfastestgrowingcities with a population baseofapproximately120,000people.

Parking problems in your neighbourhoodParkingby-lawsareenforcedproactively and on a complaint basis. Ifyouwishtolodgeacomplaint,please call Parking Enforcement at 519-836-PARK (7275) at any time.

Parking finesParkingfinescanbepaidasfollows:

InPerson:Operations-Parking, 55 Macdonell Street (Cheque,Cash,Debit,Visa orMastercard)

Web: guelph.ca > services online (VisaorMastercard)

Phone: 1-877-678-8465 (VisaorMastercard)

AfterHoursDropBox: 2 Wyndham Street North (Cheque)

For more informationFor more information contact Operations Department-Parking at 519-837-5612.


TheCityofGuelphhasauniquesystem of managing solid waste calledtheWetDry+program. As a member of the community you play an active role in the continued success of the program, which diverts more than half of the total municipal solid waste away from landfills.

TheWetDry+programinvolvessortingyourhouseholdwasteintooneofthreecoloured,transparentbags(green,blueandclear)whichareavailableatlocalgrocery,hardware,anddepartmentstores.WET(compostablesinthegreenbag)andDRY(recyclablesinthebluebag),arecollectedeachweek,andWASTE(clear)bagsarecollectedeverysecondweek.Properlysortedwasteplaysanimportantroleinthesuccessoftheprogram.Improperlysortedwastewillnotbe collected.

General Curbside Collection Information• Wastemustbeplacedtothecurbnosoonerthan7p.m.thedaybeforeyour

collection and no later than 7 a.m. on the day of collection.• Duringthewintermonthsdonotplacewastebagsontopofsnowbanks.

Always place your waste within one foot of the curb for efficient and safe collection.

• Duringstatutoryholidaysthecollectionschedulewillbemodified.WhenaholidayfallsonaMonday,thecollectionwillbeonedaylatefortheentireweek.

• FormoreinformationabouttheCity’sresidentialcollectionprogramincludingsortingandset-outguidelines,pleasevisittheCity’swebsiteatguelph.ca/wetdry or call 519-767-0598.

What to do with Waste

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Good Neighbour TipBeforeyoutoss,thinkoftheloss. Avoid wasting valuable resources.

Public Drop-off at the Waste Resource Innovation CentreTheWasteResourceInnovationCentre,locatedat110DunlopDrive,is open for public drop-off of waste and recyclables Monday through Fridayfrom7:30a.m.to6p.m.andSaturdayfrom8:30a.m.to3:45p.m.The site is closed Sundays and holidays.

Household Hazardous Waste (HHW)The City of Guelph offers a free HouseholdHazardousWaste(HHW)depot service for residents at the WasteResourceInnovationCentre. Itisveryimportantthathouseholdproductscontaininghazardouschemicalsarekeptoutoftheregularwaste stream. We encourage everyone to separate HHW materials at home and periodically drop them off at our depot for safe and proper handling.

For depot hours of operation, a list of which items are acceptable, and tips for delivering them to the depot, please visit guelph.ca/wetdry or call 519-767-0598.


Sharp ObjectsSharpobjectsincludebrokenglass,razorblades,sewingneedles,scissors,straightrazor,nails,axes,hatchets,lawnmowerblades,lightbulbsandthelike.Sharpobjectsmustbeplacedinacardboardboxnolargerthan0.6metres(2feet)inanydimension.Theboxmustbetapedshutandlabelled“Sharp Objects”. Placetheclearlymarkedboxatthecurb,separatefromyourotherwastebags,onyourcollectiondayduringyourclearWASTEcollectionweek.Absolutely no medical needles or lancets are permitted.

Yard WasteYardWasteincludesgrass,leavesandother garden clippings and is collected twice per year – once in Spring and once in Fall. Outside of those dates yard waste can be dropped off at the Waste ResourceInnovationCentre.

For twice yearly curb side collection, yard waste must be placed in paper bags, jute bags, a container clearly labeled Yard Waste or in a small bundle (no largerthan0.6metresx1metre).Yardwastemustnotcontainnon-compostablematerials such as plastics and treated wood waste.

Bulky WasteLargeitemslikefurnitureandappliancesorotherlargeitemscanbedisposedofbytakingthemtotheWasteResourceInnovationCentreat110DunlopDrive.YoucanalsoarrangetohaveabulkyitempickedupthroughtheBulky Item Collection Program. There is a fee associated with both these methods.

TohavetheitemspickedupthroughtheBulkyItemCollectionProgramyoumustfirstpurchaseaBulkyItemReceiptfromtheWasteResourceInnovationCentreandcall519-767-0598toarrangeapick-update.Ifyourbulkyitemisreusable(i.e.clean,non-damagedfurniture),calloneofthelocalcharitiesandtheymightpickitupforfree.

What to do with Waste – continued

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Did you know?Guelph is the first and only municipality in the British Commonwealth to own its ownrailwayline.The16mile Guelph Junction Railroad is still owned by the City of Guelph today.

Seasonal WasteHalloweenpumpkinscanbebrokenupandplacedinyourWETbagorleftwholeandpickedupaspartoftheyardwastecollectionweek.Anevenbetteroptionistobreakthemup and place them in a home compost bin or bury them in your garden.

Christmas trees can be dropped off at designated locations or left curbside for collection by the City of Guelph duringthedesignatedweekinJanuary(mostoftenthesecondweek,butchecktheCity’swebsiteaftertheholidaysforspecificdates).

For more informationIfyouhaveanyquestionsaboutsorting your waste, or any other waste related matters more information is availablebyvisitingtheCity’swebsiteat guelph.ca/wetdry or by calling the Waste Resource Innovation Centre at 519-767-0598.


Why Plan?OurCityisconstantlygrowingandchanging.PlanningensuresthatthischangeismanagedsothatwebuildabettercitybyretainingGuelph’sbestqualitiesasitgrows.Planningprovidesthefoundationtoshapeourfuturebyensuringthatgrowthanddevelopmentcontributestothe‘triplebottomline’ofbalancingenvironmental, social and economic objectives. By planning for change and shaping it, we can build a better community.

Official PlanTheOfficialPlanisastatementofgoals,objectivesandpoliciesintendedtoguide future land use, physical development, growth and change within the city limits.ThepoliciesofthePlanaredesignedtopromotepublicinterestinthefuturedevelopmentoftheCity,tomaintainthegoodqualityoflifeforthecitizensofGuelph,toreduceuncertaintyconcerningfuturedevelopment,andto provide a basis for the Zoning By-law and other land use controls.

FormoreinformationabouttheOfficialPlanandgeneralplanninginquiries,please call Community Design and Development Services at 519-837-5616.

Planning Your City

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Did you know?Colonel John McCrae, who wrote the poem “InFlandersFields”was born and raised in Guelph.

Zoning By-lawThe Zoning By-law is a legal tool used to implement objectives and policies oftheOfficialPlan.TheZoningBy-law regulates the use and development of all lands within the City of Guelph. Through the use of textandmapstheZoningBy-lawprovides precise information about:

• Landusesthatarecurrentlypermitted;

• Wherebuildingsorstructuresmay be located;

• Typesofusesinhomesthatarepermitted;

• Standardsforlotsize;• Parkingrequirements;• Buildingdimensionsand

setbacks;• Regulatesfenceheights,pools,

driveways, garages, sheds, etc.

The Zoning By-law also protects property owners from the developmentofconflictinglanduses.Any use of land or the construction or use of any building or structure notspecificallyauthorizedbytheBy-law is prohibited.

For more information about the Zoning By-law please contact Community Design and Development Services-Building Services at 519-837-5615.


Shared Rental HousingShared rental housing is a common form of rental accommodation in the City of Guelph that is mainly associated with lodging houses and accessory apartments. These forms of housing are regulated through the Zoning By-law as well as the Ontario Fire Code and Ontario Building Code. These regulations are in place to ensure that safe, decent housing is available for tenants.

For more information about Shared Rental Housing please contact Community Design and Development Services at 519-837-5616.

Lodging HousesAlodginghouseisalsoknownasaboardingorroominghouse.TheCityofGuelphZoningBy-lawdefinesaLodgingHouseaseitherType1orType2.ALodging Unit refers to a room used to provide living accommodation which doesnothavetheexclusiveuseofbothakitchenandabathroom.LodgingHousesaresubjecttoaminimumdistanceseparationof100metresfromanyother approved Lodging House or Group Home.

Lodging House Type 1• anyplace,includingbutnotlimitedtoadwellingunit,thatisusedtoprovide

5ormorelodgingunitsforhireorgaindirectlyorindirectlytopersonsLodging House Type 2

• wholeofatownhousebuildingorapartmentbuildingwhereoneofmoredwellingunitsareeachusedtoprovide5ormorelodgingunitsforhireorgain directly or indirectly to persons.

The Ontario Fire Code and the Ontario Building Code also regulate lodging houses.Lodginghousesarerequiredtohaveannualfireandpropertystandardsinspections to ensure they meet specific Building Code and Fire Code regulations.

For the information about lodging houses or to create a new lodging house, please contact Community Design and Development Services-Building Services at 519-837-5615.

Accessory ApartmentsAccessory apartments are defined as “dwelling units” located within and subordinatetoanexistingdwelling.Theyarealsoknownas“grannyflats”,

Planning Your City – continued

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Did you know?Guelph’sheritageisreflectedin the limestone architecture and traditional character of our downtown and older neighbourhoods. These areas helptomaintainauniqueidentity for Guelph. Approximately1900propertiesareonthecity’sheritage inventory.

“basement apartments” or “in-law suites”. When a dwelling contains an accessory apartment, it becomes a “two unit house” and must be registered with the City of Guelph. The registration of a two-unit house is aone-timerequirement.

Accessory apartments are permitted in most single-detached and semi-detached houses. They are subject to zoningregulationsincluding:

• Maximumsize(80squaremetresandnotmorethan45%ofthetotalfloorareaofthebuilding),

• Parkingrequirements(minimumof3parkingspaces),and

• Externalappearanceofthehouse.

Accessory apartments are restricted to amaximumof2bedrooms.Theaccessory apartment cannot be registered unless all applicable Zoning-By-law, Building Code and Fire Code regulations have been met.

The Building Code and Fire Code also apply to accessory apartments. A buildingpermitisrequiredtocreatean accessory apartment.

For the information about creating an accessory apartment, please contact Community Design and Development Services-Building Services at 519-837-5615.


The best way to avoid accidents, injury and losing your personal belongings, homeorlovedonesistotakesafetyandfirepreventionseriously.

Keep your home safeInordertohelpyouandyourfamilyprotectyourselfagainstthe dangers of fire and improve the safety of your home, here are some helpful safety tips:

• Smokealarmsareyourfirstlineofdefenceagainstfire.Installasmokealarmoneveryfloorofyourhomeandensureyouchangethebatteryandtestyoursmokealarm annually.

• Installacarbonmonoxidedetector(non-batterypoweredULClisted2034alarm)insideyourhomejustoutside of the bedrooms

• Designyourownhomeescapeplansoincaseofafireemergencyeveryoneknowshowtoescapesafely

• Becarefulwhenusingitemsthatcancreateheatsuchascandles,cigarettes,matchesorelectricpoweredappliances(stove,curlingiron,etc.).Donotleavethemunattendedorplacednearanythingflammable.

• Installandbeknowledgeableintheuseoftheappropriatefireextinguisherfor various areas of your home.

• Becautiousaroundelectricity.Ensureelectricalcordsandappliancesareingoodrepair.Avoidoverloadingelectricaloutletsorusinganextensioncordin place of additional outlets.

• Whencookingneverleavethekitchenunattended.Keepapotcovernearbyto “put a lid on it” in the event of a fire.

• Ifsmokingindoorsensureyouavoidleavingcigaretteslitorunattendedornearflammablesurfaces.Usesafetyashtrayswithdoublerimsanddeepcentres.

• Combustibleorflammablematerialsshouldnotbestoredinbasementsorconfined areas. They should be stored neatly outside or in a garage in the approved containers and away from ignition sources.

• Keepyourfurnaceingoodworkingorder.

Use care and be safe with outdoor firesPleasebesuretofollowmanufacturers’instructions,localby-lawsandOntarioFireCodewhenusingbarbeques,firepitsandchimneysastheyposeasafetyhazardifnotusedproperly.Thebasicrulesaroundtheuseofbarbeques,firepits

Fire Safety and Prevention

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Did you know?The name Guelph has a specialsignificance.Itwasthe family name of the DukesofBavariaandthrough alliance with the Hohenstaufens came to be the surname of the British Royalfamilywhen,in1714,George of Hanover became GeorgeI.

and chimneas in Guelph are as follows:• Yourbarbeque,firepitor

chimnea should be well away (atleast4.5metres)fromcombustible material (wooden fences,decks,trees)andwindowsand doors.

• Barbequesarenotpermitted on balconies of buildings whichcontaintwo(2)ormoredwelling units

• Theuseofafirepit,chimneyorsimilar appliance is controlled by the Ontario Fire Code. The Ontario Fire Code states, “open air burning shall not be permitted unless approved, or unless such burning consists of a small confined fire, supervised at all times,andusedtocookfoodonagrill or barbecue.”

• Firesthatproducesmokethatdisturbs neighbours or that are considered too large for the purposeofcookingfoodare not permitted.

For more information or safety concernsIfyouhaveanyfiresafetyconcernsabout your residence, you can arrange an inspection by calling the Fire Prevention Office at 519-763-8111.

In case of emergency dial 9-1-1.


ThePropertyStandardsBy-lawsetsstandardsforthemaintenanceandoccupancy of property in the City. The purpose of the By-law is to protect the safety,healthandwell-beingofthepublicandtoenhancethequalityofneighbourhoods. The By-law, in conjunction with applicable codes and legislation,setsoutstandardsfortheexteriorandinteriormaintenanceofproperties and buildings.

Properties within the City of Guelph are to be kept free of:• Garbage,rubbish,waste,salvageorotherdebris• Longgrassandweeds• Animalexcrement• Wrecked,dismantled,unlicensedorinoperablemachineryorvehicles• Appliancessuchasarefrigerator,freezerorothercontaineroutsideofabuilding

Any condition that may create a health, fire or accident hazard, such as:• Dilapidatedorcollapsedstructure• Deadordecayingtrees• Unstablesoilanderosion

The By-law also enforces standards designed to ensure the safety of the community including:

• Buildingstandards• Parkingareas,walksanddriveways• Properstorageand/ordisposal(i.e.

garbage,firewood)• Preventionofpests(i.e.rodents,

verminandinsects)• Plumbing,electrical,heatingand

ventilation systems• Preventionofwaterand/orweather

elements from entering• Fireandwaterresistance• Externalareas(i.e.outdoorstair,

porch, balcony, landing, ramp and fireescape,elevatingdevices)

• Vacatedorfiredamagedbuildings

Property Standards By-law

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Good Neighbour TipDoyourparttokeepyourneighbourhood safe and lookinggreat.

Propertyownersareexpectedtokeeptheir property and any related structures or buildings in a sound conditionandminimizeorpreventdeterioration that occurs through normal use and conditions. Failing to meet the property standard regulations can result in fines or prosecution. The PropertyStandardsBy-lawisenforcedon a complaint basis.

For more informationFor more information or to report a complaint, contact Community Design and Development Services Building Services at 519-837-5615.


Building PermitsIfyouareconsideringsomeformofconstructiononyourpropertyorinstallationinyourhomeyoumayrequireabuildingpermit.Itisimportanttoacquirethenecessarypermitsinorderto:

• Preventlegalcomplicationswhentryingtosellorre-mortgageyourhome• EnsureyourprojectcomplieswiththeOntarioBuildingCode,theZoning

By-law and all other relevant Codes and By-laws• Ensuresafeconditionsandavoidpersonalinjurytooccupantsand

neighbouring residents• InobtainingapermityouwillreceiveassistancefromBuildingServicesstaff

in proper methods of construction and encourage persons you have hired to produceaproductthatmeets/exceedstheminimumstandardsrequired.

Building permits are required for construction related to:• Homerenovationsandadditions• Accessorystructures(decks,sheds,etc)• Newdwellingunits(basementapartments)

In addition, a permit is required for the installation of:• Achimneyorwoodstove• Aswimmingpoolorhottub• Plumbingorheatingsystems

For more information please contact Community Design and Development Services-Building Services at 519-837-5615.

Remember...UtilitiesRemember in advance of starting your project, Call Before You Dig! Be sure to callutilitiesbeforeyoudig,tolocateallundergroundservices.InOntariotoreceive this information please contact Ontario One Call at 1-800-400-2255 or www.on1call.com

Building and Renovations

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Did you know?ThetermHatTrickwasinvented in Guelph. The Biltmore Hat Company sponsoredaGuelphHockeyTeam called the Biltmore Mad Hatters. When a player scored three goals, fans were encouraged to throw their hats on to the ice. This was knownasthe“HatTrick”.

Accessory Structures (including sheds and decks)Beforeyoustarttobuildadeck,porch or accessory building such as a shed or garage there are a number of items to consider to ensure your project conforms to the necessary regulations. These items include the requirementofabuildingpermitandrestrictionsonthelocationandsizeofthe structure.

Notallaccessorystructuresrequireabuilding permit; however they still must meet certain restrictions on their locationandsize.Accessorystructuresthatrequireabuildingpermitinclude:

• Deckswherethefloorishigherthan0.6metres(2feet)abovefinished grade at any point

• Accessorystructuresgreaterthan10squaremetres(107squarefeet)

Thelocationandsizeofanaccessorystructure on your property is regulated by the Zoning By-law. Regulations restricting the location of an accessory structure vary depending onthezone,theyardwherethestructure is to be located and, in the caseofdecks,itsdesign.


FencesThemaximumheightoffencesisregulatedinallareasoftheCity.Themaximumheightvariesdependingonthelocationofthefenceontheproperty.Maximumfenceheightsrangefrom0.8metresto2.5metres.

Thereisaprovincialstatue(TheLineFencesAct)thatprovidesforthearbitration of a dispute between two or more neighbours over whether or not a boundary fence should be erected, what type of fence is to be erected and who pays what portion of the cost.

Areyouonacornerlot?Forthesafetyoftrafficandpedestrianskeepthecornerclear of fences, structures and large landscaping. Specific regulations are outlined in the Zoning By-law.

For detailed information on fence regulations contact Community Design and Development Services at 519-837-5615.

Swimming Pool and Hot TubsSwimming pools and hot tubs can be an enjoyable amenity to any home, provided they are used safely. Homeowners are responsible for ensuring that the safetyrequirementsoftheCityofGuelphSwimmingPoolBy-lawisfollowedona continuing basis.

Have fun...safelyThekeytopoolsafetyisthatthepoolorhottubmustbeinaccessiblewhennotinuse. This means the following should occur when the pool or hot tub is not in use:

• Ifthereisafencearoundthebackyard,thegatemustbekeptlocked.• Ifyouhaveanabovegroundpoolwhichincludesanintegralenclosure,without

theyardbeingfenced,theladdermustbekeptlockedinanuprightposition.• Forhottubsthatarenotfenced,theremustbealidorcoverthatwillnot

collapseandbelockedinplaceovertheunit.

Building and Renovations – continued

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Did you know?ThejockstrapwasinventedinGuelph.ItwascreatedbyGuelphElasticHosieryCompanyin1920.Thecompany held a contest to nametheproductandjockstrap was the winning name. Theprizewas$5.

Ifyouwishtoinstallapoolorhottubat your house you need to get the requiredpermitandinspectionpriorto filling your pool or hot tub with water.Thepermitrequirementsrelatetopoolsizeinrelationtothelotsize;distance from property lines; effect on the drainage of the property; the necessity for a damage deposit and fencing/gates.



Propertyownersareresponsibleforsnowremovalontheirpropertyandadjacentsidewalks.Forsafetypurposes,snowfromsidewalkscannotbeplacedontheroad.TheCityofGuelphdoesclearCity-ownedsidewalksdependingonthevolumeofsnowandpedestriantraffic.After4centimetresofsnowaccumulationCity-ownedsidewalksalongarterialandcollectorroads,busandschoolroutesarecleared.After8centimetresofsnowaccumulationresidentialsidewalksarecleared.Itusuallytakesthreedaysonaverageafterasnowfallendstocompletelycleartheallcitysidewalks.

For more information please contact Operations Department-Roads and Right of Ways at 519-837-5628.

Snow Clearing

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Good Neighbour TipClearyoursidewalkof snow and ice to permit safe passage through your neighbourhood.

Zoning regulations permit a maximumof3GarageSales(yardsale,lawnsales,etc.)onanygivenproperty in any one calendar year. Eachseparatesaleislimitedtoamaximumdurationof2consecutivedays.Ifyouareinstallingsignsaroundthe neighbourhood to advertise your garagesale,pleasekeepinmind:

• Garagesalesignsarepermittedtobestakedinthegroundontheroad allowance (but not on traffic islands)andonyourresidentialproperty

• Signsmustnotbemorethan0.8metres(2feet7inches)abovetheroad surface with a

• maximumsignareaof0.46squaremetres(5squarefeet)

• Signsadvertisingyourgaragesalesshould be removed immediately after the event.


Garage Sales


The City of Guelph has an outside water use program in place to regulate non-essentialuseofwaterintimesofpeakdemand.Waterconservationoccursthrough a combination of education and water restrictions.

Outdoor Water Use ProgramThe Outside Water Use program is intended to be user friendly and was put together based on input from residents. The program includes three levels (Blue, YellowandRed)thataffectresidentialoutsidewateruseandafourthlevelthatprimarilyaffectscommercialwateruse.Programlevelsaretriggeredbydryweather and diminished water storage and supply. Watering restrictions and programenforcementincreasewitheachlevel.Inabasicformtherestrictionsare as follows:Level 0 (Blue) – Careful UseThis is our standard Outside Water Use level. Lawn watering is restricted to alternatedays(oddnumberedaddress,oddnumberedday/evennumberaddress,evennumberedday;7to9a.m.(morning),and7to9p.m.(evening))Level 1 (Yellow) – Reduce Outside UseThis indicates a lower water storage level and customers must reduce outside usagetopreventmovingtoLevel2.Level 2 (Red) – Reduce and Stop Non-Essential UseThis indicates there is too little water stored. No lawn watering is allowed and watering other vegetation and residential car washing is limited to alternate days.

Anexceptiontothewateringrestrictionsisavailableforcitizenswithnewlyestablishedlawns(newsodorseed)providedtherequiredpermitisobtainedbycalling Waterworks at 519-837-5627. The permit allows you to water outside thedayandtimerestrictionsforaperiodof30days.

Water Conservation TipsHere are some activities that are considered wasteful and some alternatives:

• Neverwateryourlawnorgardenintherain...letMotherNaturetakecareof it for you.

• Neverallowasprinklertowaterasidewalk,drivewayorroad...ensureyouwater only the lawn and garden.

• Neveroverwateralawn,gardenoroutdoorplantsothereiswaterpoolingorrunningoff...usethesoakandcycletechnique-wateroneareafor15minutes then move on to another.

Water Conservation

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Did you know?The City of Guelph was the first community in Ontario to establish a library supportedbylocaltaxes.Thiswas in response to the Free Libraries Act which was passedin1882.

• Neverhaveapondorfountainwhich does not recirculate water... install a circulating pump.

• Neverwashyourvehiclewithaflowinghose...useahoseequippedwithashutoffnozzle.

• Neverwashadrivewaycleanwithwater... use a broom and sweep.

Royal Flush Toilet Rebate ProgramAlmost30%ofallwaterconsumedinthehomeisflusheddownthetoilet.By replacing your high water use (13-litreormore)toiletwithanewwaterlowflush(6-litreorless)modelyoucanreceivea$40or$60rebatefrom the City of Guelph (rebates are limited).VisittheCity’swebsiteatguelph.ca or call 519-822-1260 x2633 for more details or an application form.

WaterconservationeffortsaremakingadifferenceinGuelph.Between2000and2005waterconsumptiondecreasedby1%despitecontinuingnew development in the City.

For more information please contact Waterworks at 519-837-5627.


Licensing your petThe licensing and regulation of dogs within the City of Guelph occurs through theAnimalControlBy-law.Theby-lawrequiresalldogsover3monthsoldtobe licensed. Licenses need to be renewed annually each January. The price of the doglicensevariesdependingonwhethertheanimalisspayedorneuteredand/ormicro-chipped(proofisrequired).Failuretopurchaseadoglicensecanresultina fine. Licenses are available at the Guelph Humane Society as well as several pet hospitals and stores throughout the City. To find the location nearest you please contact the City Clerk’s Office at 519-837-5603.

Dogsknownas“PitBulls”aresubjecttospecificrestrictionswithintheProvinceofOntario.Undertheseregulations“PitBulls”mustbeleashedandmuzzledwhen outside the owners enclosed property, including leash-free areas.

NootherdomesticanimalsrequirealicensebuttheCityofGuelphhasby-lawsthatrestrictexoticandnon-domesticanimals.Formoreinformationpleasecontact the City Clerk’s Office at 519-837-5603.

Being a responsible pet ownerDogsmustbeundercontrolandarenotpermittedtorunatlargewithintheCity of Guelph. A dog is “at large” if the dog is in a place other than the premises of the owner (i.e. trails, school yards, and other public and private property)andnotundercontrolofanyperson.“Undercontrol”onaleashmeans the dog is prevented from approaching within one metre of other animals and people. When off -leash, “under control” means the dog remains close to its handler(withinsightandearshot),respondstovoicecommands,andisprevented from approaching within one metre of other animals and people.

To be a responsible pet owner, please follow these regulations:

• Ensureyourpetiswearingsometypeofidentification in case they get loose accidentally.

• Identificationcanincludeanametag and/ormicro-chip.

• Cleanupanddisposeofyourpets’wasteinanappropriate manner.

• Usealeashnolongerthan1.8metres(6feet).

Pets and Pet Owners

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Did you know?Guelphwasfoundedin1827by John Galt of the Canada Company. The Scotsman, John Galt has been described as an adventurer, novelist, dramatist, biographer and empire-builder.

• Keeppetsoutofpublicwadingpools, occupied sports fields and playgrounds.

• Ensureyourdogis“undercontrol” at all times when out enjoying the community.

• OnlyallowyourdogoffleashwherepermittedinCityparks.

Off-leash areasDogs are permitted off -leash in areas of the following City of Guelph parks:

• Eramosa River Park (eastend,westofAudreyAvenue)

• Lee Steet Park(southernhalf )• Riverside Park

(west of the river and northofWoodlawnRoad)

• Norm Jary Park (between the ball diamonds offMaplewoodCrescent)

• Margaret Greene Park (areawestofSt.Peter’sSchool)

• Crane Park• Centennial Park

(off Municipal Street, west of tennis bubble, northofballdiamond)

• John Gamble Park (south of access road leading toShadybrookCrescent)

• Dogsarealsoallowedonunoccupied sports fields intheevening8p.mto8a.mfromMay1toSeptember14 and5p.m.to8a.m.fromSeptember14toApril30.


TheGuelphNeighbourhoodSupportCoalitionisanetworkofneighbourhoodgroups,sponsoringagenciesandprogrampartners.Eachneighbourhoodgroupoperates in an autonomous way at the grass roots level to meet needs for children, youth and families that have been identified within the neighbourhood. Through the Coalition, the neighbourhood groups bring together their collective resources to share information, provide support, distribute available funding resources and advocate for community issues and requiredfunding.

Neighbourhood AssociationsNeighbourhood groups are busy building healthy, vibrant communities in the City of Guelph. Are you aware that there are several volunteer neighbourhood groupsthatprovideservicesinGuelphtoimprovethequalityoflifeintheirneighbourhoods?

Neighbourhood Groups

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Guelph FactsAnnual precipitation 690mmrain,143cmsnow,1924hoursofsunshine.

Guelph’slandareais 86.66kmsq.

Elevation334metersabovemeansealevel,Latitude43o 33’N,Longitude80o15’W.

The following is a list of current neighbourhood groups within the City of Guelph:

• BrantAvenueNeighbourhoodGroup

• ClairfieldsNeighbourhoodGroup• ExhibitionParkNeighbourhood

Group• GrangeHillEastNeighbourhood

Group• HanlonCreekNeighbourhood

Group• KortrightHillsCommunity

Association• OldUniversityNeighbourhood

ResidentsAssociationInc.• OnwardWillowBetter

BeginningsProject• ParkwoodGardens

Neighbourhood Group• TwoRiversNeighbourhoodGroup• WaverleyNeighbourhoodGroup• WestWillowWoods

Neighbourhood Group

For more information about groups in your neighbourhood or starting a new neighbourhood group, please contact Community Services at 519-837-5618.


CulturalGuelph Civic MuseumTheGuelphCivicMuseumwasbuiltin1847ofGuelphlimestone.Exhibitionsandpublicprogramsexplorethemanyindividuals,culturesandeventsthatcontributed to the historic development of the City of Guelph.6DublinStreetSouthCall:519-836-1221Web:guelph.ca/museum

McCrae HouseBuiltin1858,McCraeHouseisthebirthplaceofJohnMcCraeandaNationalHistoricSite.ExhibitionsinterpretthelifeofJohnMcCrae,worldfamousdoctor,soldierandauthorofInFlandersFields.108WaterStreetCall:519-836-1482Web:guelph.ca/museum

River Run CentreGuelph’smagnificentperformingartscentreissetalongthepicturesquebankoftheSpeed.RiverintheCity’sdowntowncorenearthesitewhereGuelphwasfounded.35WoolwichStreetAdministration:519-837-5662Box Office:519-763-3000Web: www.riverrun.ca

RecreationalFormoreinformationontheseRecreationalFacilitiesvisittheCity’swebsiteatguelph.ca > living > recreation & culture > facilities

Delhi Community Centre65DelhiStreetCall: 519-837-5625

Victoria Road Recreation Centre151VictoriaRoadNorthCall:519-837-5621

City of Guelph Facilities

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West End Community Centre21ImperialRoadSouthCall: 519-837-5657

Centennial Park Arena and Pool376and289CollegeAvenueWestArena: 519-837-5623Pool:519-837-5620

Exhibition Park Arena70DivisionStreetCall:519-837-5624

Evergreen Seniors Centre683WoolwichStreetCall:519-823-1291

Guelph Sports and Entertainment Centre (GSEC)50WoolwichStreetAdministration:519-822-4900Box Office:519-822-4900ext.210Pub 101 (reservations):519-822-4228Web: www.guelphsportsent.com

Guelph Farmers MarketTheGuelphFarmersMarketis open Saturdays from 7 a.m. until 12noon.Gordon Street at Waterloo Avenue.Call: 519-837-5628

Guelph FactsGuelph officially became a townonJanuary1,1879.


The City of Guelph offers a wide variety of volunteer opportunities for students, adultsandseniors.Getinvolvedinprograms,specialeventsorparksprograms.Whetheryouwouldliketoutilizeyourspecialskills,explorecareerchoices,meet new people or become a valuable member of a volunteer team, we offer volunteer opportunities, short-term or long-term commitments in a variety of areas throughout the year.

VisittheVolunteerCentreofGuelph/Wellingtonformoreinformationonexcitingvolunteeropportunitiesinyourarea.

Volunteer Centre of Guelph/Wellington46CorkStreetEast,Unit1,Guelph,ON,N1H2W8Call:519-822-0912/Toll free:1-866-693-3318Email: [email protected]: www.volunteerguelphwellington.on.ca

Getting InvolvedTherearemanyclubsandcommunitygroupsthatorganizeactivitiesandeventsthatyoucangetinvolvedin.TheCityofGuelph’sonlineCalendarofEventsprovides a monthly or daily list of events throughout the year. The calendar can becanfoundbyvisitingtheCity’swebsiteatguelph.ca/events.cfm

TheVolunteerCentreofGuelph/Wellingtonco-ordinatesCommunityInformationGuelph–awebsiteofclubs,communitygroupsand organizationsinGuelphandarea.VisitCommunityInformationGuelphatwww.communitylinks.cioc.ca.

Volunteering in Guelph

guelph.ca 37

TheCityofGuelphisdividedintosixwards.Ward1islocatedeastofdowntown,Ward2islocatednortheastofdowntown,Wards3and4arelocatednorthwestofdowntown,andWard5islocatednorthofStoneRoad and south of downtown. Ward 6encompassesthesouthendofGuelph.Everyfouryearsanelectionis held, and constituents of each ward vote for two Councillors and a Mayor. Guelph City Council consists of the Mayor and twelve Councillors.

City of Guelph Ward Boundaries6wards,2councillorsperward

Ward1–St.Patrick’sWard2–St.George’sWard3–St.John’sWard4–St.David’sWard5–St.Andrew’sWard6–St.James

Did you know?Robert Munsch, Jean Little, John McCrae, and Neve Campbell are from Guelph?

Wards and City Council


Transit RoutesTransitroutescanbeviewedbyvisitingtheCity’swebsiteatguelph.ca/transit.

Colour maps showing all transit routes are also available for purchase throughout the city. To find a location near you please contact Transit Services at 519-822-1811.

SchedulingGuelph’sCitybusesoperate7daysaweek.ThecentraltransferpointisatSt.Georges’Squaredowntown(theintersectionofQuebecandWyndhamStreets).

FromMondaytoSaturday,busesrunfrom5:45a.m.to12:15p.m.OnSundays,busesrunfrom9:15a.m.until6:15p.m.TheyleaveSt.George’sSquareatquartertothehourandquarterafterthehour.

Generalfareis$2.00.Passesarealsoavailable.

For more information contactGuelph Transit has Customer Service Representatives who are happy to assist you in planning your trip or helping you determine the most convenient route to your destination. Contact Transit Services at 519-822-1811, TTY 519-837-5731orvisittheCity’swebsiteat guelph.ca/transit.

Guelph Transit

guelph.ca 39

Email: [email protected] Web: guelph.ca

Contacts for City Services

Main Line 519-822-1260Mayor’s Office 519-837-5643CAO’s Office 519-837-5602Building 519-837-5615Centennial Pool 519-837-5620City Clerk’s Office 519-837-5603Civic Museum 519-836-1221Community Design and Development Services 519-837-5616Community Services 519-837-5618Court Services (Provincial Offences Court) 519-826-0762Delhi Community Centre 519-837-5625Economic Development 519-837-5600Engineering 519-837-5604Evergreen Seniors Centre 519-823-1291Finance 519-837-5610Fire and Emergency Services 519-824-6590Guelph Sports and Entertainment Centre 519-822-4900Human Resources 519-837-5601Legal Services 519-837-5637Library (Main Branch) 519-824-6220McCrae House 519-836-1482Operations 519-837-5628Parking 519-837-5612Parks Maintenance 519-837-5628Police Services 519-824-1212River Run Centre (Box Office) 519-763-3000River Run Centre (Administration) 519-837-5662Taxation 519-837-5605Tourism 519-837-1335Traffic 519-837-5628Transit 519-822-1811Victoria Road Recreation Centre 519-837-5621Waste Resource Innovation Centre 519-767-0598Wastewater Treatment Plant 519-837-5629Waterworks 519-837-5627West End Community Centre 519-837-5657

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