PITT MEADOWS, BC – The City of Pitt Meadows has approved amendments to its Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, which will see some fines for infractions increased to a maximum of $500, and a $25 adjudication fee for unsuccessful fine disputes.
“Council felt it was important to review and address some updates in the bylaw in keeping with other municipalities,” said Mayor John Becker. “The proposed changes are intended to increase the level of compliance with City bylaws and improve overall health and safety of people and the environment in Pitt Meadows.”
The update is part of the City’s regular review of bylaws and policies and was directed by Council earlier this year in January. City staff undertook a comprehensive review that included other municipalities’ fine amounts, as well as provincial reports, toolkits, legislation, and best practice guides.
The issue of bylaw enforcement and fines falls under the provincial Community Charter and the Local Government Bylaw Notice Enforcement Act, under which all BC municipalities operate. The legislation sets out guidelines and limits on what municipalities can enforce, and caps on maximum amounts they can charge in fees and fines.
“The City’s policy is to work toward compliance first,” said Lisa Grant, Manager of Community Development. “We always work with residents through education and warnings before resorting to fines.”
The updates were approved by Council on June 12 and fines went into effect immediately.
The Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw can be viewed at pittmeadows.bc.ca/bylaws.
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