Bylaw Enforcement

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The Licences, Permits and Bylaws Department investigates and responds to complaints received about bylaw violations in the District of Maple Ridge. Bylaw enforcement generally refers to a host of actions directed at obtaining compliance with local government bylaws, including:

• educating the public about regulatory rules
• conducting inspections to ensure that the rules are being followed
• mediating between members of the public
• leveraging voluntary compliance with the rules where possible
• seeking consequences for contraventions where compliance is not forthcoming or harm has been done to the community.

Traditionally, bylaw enforcement has been carried out on a complaint basis, however, the District of Maple Ridge has initiated a more proactive approach to enforcement service as well.

How do I make a bylaw complaint?

Bylaw complaints may be made by telephone, in writing, by email or in person at the Licences, Permits and Bylaws Department at the District. You must identify yourself when making the complaint. The District will not accept anonymous complaints. The District will keep the identity of the complainant confidential unless the complainant has agreed to be identified. When making a complaint, be prepared to give your name, address and telephone number and to provide as many details as possible about the complaint, including the following:

• address of property involved
• description of motor vehicle with licence plate (if applicable) 
• date(s) when violation observed
• detailed description of violation.

For more information on the complaint process and to access bylaw enforcement complaint forms, please visit the Common Bylaw Violations and the Complaint Process web page, by clicking your mouse here or by clicking on the link provided above.

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How does the District respond to complaints?

Bylaw Enforcement Officers will investigate your complaint as soon as possible. You are encouraged to keep your complaint file up to date and to keep the Bylaw Enforcement Officer apprised of the status of your complaint, if the situation improves, worsens or stays the same. 

If there is a contravention of municipal bylaws, Bylaw Enforcement Officers will work with the person responsible to voluntarily remedy the situation.

In relation to certain hazardous situations or declared nuisances, a municipal council may order a person to rectify the situation, or take action to eliminate the hazard or damage and require the person to pay the costs incurred to do so. Where compliance with a bylaw is a condition of a licence or permit, Bylaw Enforcement Officers may find it necessary to suspend the licence or permit until the person, or persons, comply.

The District appreciates your patience in bylaw enforcement matters.

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