Item - 2015.PG5.5

The Planning and Growth Management Committee:

This report responds to Council’s request to develop a strategy to deal with problem residential infill construction sites.  Construction sites that impact the community with nuisance issues such as noise, parking, dust, debris, and safety are often considered to be problem sites for many residents and city staff.  Because these issues often involve multiple regulations administered by different divisions, it can be difficult for staff to provide a strategic and effective approach to responding to these issues and in the end, achieve compliance with a number of city regulations.  Furthermore, where these issues are ongoing and repeating, the situation can be more problematic. 

The Executive Director and Chief Building Official will take a lead role in consulting with other City divisions and key building industry stakeholders to develop a more strategic and effective approach for City staff to respond to problem construction sites. Staff will commence consultations on a proposed strategy in the third quarter of 2015.  The findings of the research and consultations will be reported to the Planning and Growth Management Committee by December 2015. 

As directed by Council, the proposed strategy will consider, among other issues, the identification of a lead city staff person to liaise with concerned parties and coordinate an interdivisional response and effective enforcement measures to ensure compliance with applicable legislation and all relevant city by-laws and policies.  The strategy will also consider the feasibility of requiring builders to post key information on sites such as permitted construction times, parking permissions, contact information, tree protection requirements and other site safety details that are relevant to the immediate neighbourhood.