Review the Unsightly Premises Bylaw

Bylaw enforcement in the city of Halifax is complaint driven. No matter how well you look after your property you are at the whim of any casual observer who at any time may require you to carry out expensive repairs that may not have been allowed for in your budget.

Anonymous complaints are dangerous because they create a climate of suspicion instilling animosity and resulting in a dysfunctional neighbourhood. Complaints are often motivated by spite and are used as a weapon to retaliate or harass. There have also been incidences where contractors have used the bylaw as a business opportunity.

It is time to review this process and take a more common sense approach to bylaw implementation.