What you need to know about Ottawa's updated Site-Alteration by-law effective May 23, 2018

With the new bylaw it will become mandatory that owners of neighbouring properties be informed about the
extent and expected duration of landscaping projects if there are significant grade or drainage changes
and the work extends to within 10m of the property boundary.

 

This doesn't apply to small projects like garden beds but it does apply to large projects like retaining
walls and swimming pool installation. It will also be mandatory to use erosion and sediment control
measures to prevent soil and sediment from washing off of the site and into neighbouring properties
or city infrastructure. Critical root zone protection for large trees is also covered in the bylaw.

For more information on the By-Law and how as an industry professional you should be prepared
go to: City of Ottawa news on new Site Alteration By-law