Bylaw Complaints

How to Make a Bylaw Infraction Complaint

Enforcement action is primarily initiated on a complaint basis and the goal of Bylaw Enforcement is voluntary compliance. Queries and complaints can be made during normal business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

To make a complaint relating to CVRD Bylaws, it is required that a name, address, and phone number be provided as well as a description of the location (address) and alleged offence.

Anonymous Complaints

The CVRD reserves the right not to respond to anonymous complaints. We prioritize the confidentiality of complaints, but we also need to gather sufficient information and potentially follow up with a complainant if needed. It is important for us to have your information on file to give validity to the complaint and assist our Officer in effectively dealing with your concerns. Anonymous complaints can sometimes be used for malicious purposes or to harass individuals.

All complainants will be contacted to acknowledge receipt of their complaint and provided with an update of any action taken by a Bylaw Enforcement Officer (BEO).

This information is kept confidential, but is subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA). For additional information, read the CVRD Bylaw Compliance and Enforcement Policy.

Bylaw complaints may be made:

In person
in writing/email enforcement@cvrd.bc.ca
by phone 250.746.2655

Appeals against CVRD action in relation to bylaw enforcement must be submitted in writing and addressed to the Senior Manager of Building Inspections & Bylaw Enforcement.

Submit a Bylaw Complaint to us online with our Bylaw Complaint Form.

FAQs

What happens after a complaint is made?

The complaint is reviewed to determine if it is valid and related to District bylaws and if so, a file is created and assigned to a Bylaw Officer. If the complaint is valid but relates to a regulation that is administered by another governing agency you will be provided with the contact information for that agency.

How long does it take to get compliance?

The Bylaw Enforcement Officer will aim to negotiate a reasonable compliance plan and time frame to achieve voluntary compliance. The compliance plan may accommodate unusual circumstances such as seasonal and financial constraints or personal situations. Education and warnings are not appropriate in all circumstances and more direct enforcement may be taken such as immediate ticketing. If the violation is serious or ongoing, the Bylaw Enforcement Officer may recommend that the District approve legal action to acquire a court order to gain compliance.

Does anyone check back to confirm compliance?

Yes. Bylaw Enforcement Officers inspect to confirm that voluntary compliance has taken place before closing a file; however, in some instances, a property owner will violate the bylaw again at a later date and a new complaint may be necessary to reopen the file.

Do Bylaw Enforcement Officers proactively patrol or respond only on a complaint basis?

Bylaw enforcement is primarily complaint driven but our Officers proactively patrol communities. The BEO (Bylaw Enforcement Officer) may seek out bylaw infractions for issues of public health and/or safety or other bylaw violations during the regular course of their duties.

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Bylaw Complaints

How to Make a Bylaw Infraction Complaint

FAQs

Tips for Working it out with Your Neighbours

Resources/Contacts

Contact Us

Bylaw Enforcement

After Hours Report Line: 250.746.2655