The M.D. of Lesser Slave River is reminding residents to keep their properties clean, safe and free from unsightly accumulations as Community Peace Officers continue enforcing the municipality’s Community Standards and Safety Bylaw. The municipality recently announced that Peace Officers are issuing cleanup orders to property owners whose land is found to be in violation of Community Standards and Safety Bylaw 2023-03.
The bylaw defines litter as refuse, garbage or waste located on private or public land that is not contained in an authorized garbage receptacle. This includes materials such as solid waste, wood, metal, glass, clothing, paper, cardboard, food containers, yard waste, vehicle parts, household furnishings, appliances and animal waste.
The bylaw also prohibits property owners from allowing materials to accumulate in a way that creates unpleasant odours, attracts animals, pests or wildlife, or creates a safety concern. It also addresses conditions such as junked vehicles, derelict buildings and deteriorating structures that may negatively affect surrounding properties.
A property may be considered a nuisance under the bylaw if it creates a danger to health, negatively impacts nearby people or properties, or unreasonably interferes with others’ use and enjoyment of their property.
Keeping properties clean is about more than appearance. Accumulated debris, discarded materials and poorly maintained structures can create safety hazards, attract pests and wildlife, and contribute to increased risks during Alberta’s dry summer conditions. Maintaining properties also helps protect the appearance and livability of rural communities throughout the M.D.
When a Peace Officer or Designated Officer determines that a property is untidy, unsightly, unsafe or a nuisance, the municipality may issue a written compliance notice requiring the owner or occupant to correct the issue within a specified timeframe.
Under Bylaw 2023-03, many property-related violations, including allowing an untidy, unsightly, unsafe or nuisance property, having accumulated refuse, allowing junked vehicles to remain on residential properties, or failing to remove certain materials, carry a specified penalty of $500. The bylaw also allows the municipality to issue additional violation tickets or take further enforcement action if a property owner fails to remedy a nuisance or comply with a notice.
The municipality encourages residents to inspect their properties regularly and remove unused materials, garbage and debris before they become a concern. Items that are being kept should be stored neatly and safely, while unwanted materials should be disposed of through approved waste or recycling facilities.
Residents who are unsure whether something on their property could be considered a violation, or who have questions about the Community Standards and Safety Bylaw, are encouraged to contact the M.D.’s Protective Services department. The full bylaw includes information on property standards, inspections, compliance notices, enforcement procedures and penalties.
By taking time to clean up yards, properly store materials and dispose of unwanted items, residents can help reduce safety risks, improve neighbourhood appearance and contribute to cleaner, safer communities throughout the M.D. of Lesser Slave River.
William Hetherington
Lakeside Leader
