GARBAGE & RECYCLING

Q: What are the sizes and options for blue & gray bins?

A: Please see the Bins Information Sheet

Q: My recycling box is damaged, how can I get a new one?

A: Damaged Blue and Grey Boxes can be quickly replaced for free by visiting Scarborough's pick-up location at 1 Transfer Place (Markham & Nugget) Monday to Friday, 6:00am to 5:30pm, Saturday 6:00am to 12:30pm. Blue and Grey Boxes without replacements are $5. New residents are eligible for free boxes. They must provide a utility bill that shows a new service charge/account set-up within the last three months.

You can also purchase boxes at Home Hardware stores across the city.

Q: Where can I drop off large quantities of garbage/waste and hazardous materials?

A: The nearest transfer station is located at 3350 Victoria Park Avenue (south of McNicoll). You can drop off garbage, recyclables, household hazardous waste, computers and tires. Call 416-392-3025 for hours for residential drop offs.

NEIGHBOURS

Q: What can I do about a noisy neighbour?

A: City By-laws prohibit loud noise of any kind (i.e. loud radios, dogs that constantly bark, loud machinery, etc.). If you are unable to resolve the matter by talking with your neighbour, contact my office. The City will issue the offending homeowner with a notice advising them of the by-law and requesting their compliance. If the noise continues, the City may pursue legal action in Provincial Offences Court.

Q: My neighbour doesn't maintain his property, what can I do?

A: According to the City's Property Standards By-laws, all homes must meet minimum standards for safety and tidiness. If a homeowner does not properly maintain his/her property, the City will send a Property Standards Investigator to the home to document any and all infractions. The homeowner will be sent a notice requiring them to make the necessary repairs by a set date. If the homeowner fails to comply, the City may initiate legal action through Provincial Offences Court. Some common by-law infractions include:  

• Unfinished exterior woodwork and peeling paint
• garbage and debris scattered around the property
• Broken windows and doors
• Dilapidated cars being stored on the property
• Long grass and noxious weeds

PARKING

Q: How long can I park on the street if there are no signs posted?

A: In the City of Toronto, a three-hour limit exists on public roads where no other parking regulations are posted.

Q: I am having my driveway paved. Can I park on the street for a few days?

A: The Toronto Police Service, Parking Enforcement Unit does allow for short duration parking consideration. Residents should contact the Toronto Police Service, Parking Enforcement Unit at 416-808-6500 in advance of parking on the road and request that they not receive tickets for the duration that they will be parking on the street

Q: How can I pay for or appeal a parking ticket?

A:  Payment, appeal options and locations are also listed on the back of the ticket. For information on outstanding traffic tickets call 416-397-TAGS (8247). Infractions are based on the laws of Ontario's Highway Traffic Act, and so disputes are handled in provincial court.

For full information visit: http://www.toronto.ca/parkingtickets/index.htm

Q: Can I widen and pave my driveway to create extra parking for my family members?

A: The City has a by-law that permits your drive-way to be as wide as your garage. The aim is to prevent the wholesale elimination of green space from our residential communities. If Municipal Licensing and Standards staff find evidence that you are parking anywhere in your front yard other than on the legal portion of your driveway, you will receive a Notice of Violation advising you to stop and delineate your driveway from the illegally widened portion or risk repeated fines.

PROPERTY

Q: My basement has flooded because the sewer backed up. Where can I call?

A: Here are the four steps to follow in the event of a flooded basement:

• Call immediately 416-338-8888, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
• Call your insurance company as soon as possible and report property damage caused by the flooding.
• Be mindful of health and safety when cleaning up your flooded basement.
• Consider getting help with flooding clean up. Look in the Yellow Pages under ‘Water Damage Restoration’.

Q: Do I need permission to cut down a tree on my property?

A: The City's "Private Tree By-law" regulates injury or removal of privately owned trees which measure 30 cm in diameter or more as measured at 1.4 m above ground level. It is unlawful to injure or destroy such trees without first obtaining a permit from Urban Forestry Services.

Visit: http://www.toronto.ca/trees/private_trees.htm

© 2003-2009 Toronto City Councillor Mike Del Grande All Rights Reserved.

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