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1. What will happen to the fence or retaining wall that separates the two properties?

Depending on which side of the property line the fence/wall is on, it may need to be removed as part of the excavation process. Have a conversation with your neighbour to determine who owns the fence or retaining wall, and decide between you how it will be protected, removed, and/or replaced. It is recommended that an agreement between neighbours be signed to outline the existing and future condition, as well as having photos. Permission from your neighbour(s) will be required to remove any shared fence/retaining wall or a fence/retaining wall on your neighbour’s property.

2. What will happen to the tree(s) near the property line?

If the tree is on the property to be developed, excavation for a new building may require that the tree be removed. If the tree is on a neighbouring property, or straddles a property line, excavation may still result in damage to the tree that would require its removal. Talk to your neighbour about any trees of concern; trees to be removed that are not on the subject property require permission from the property owner.

• Tree cutting permits: Any trees to be retained must be properly protected. An agreement is required between neighbours, outlining the existing and future condition, as well as having photos. Tree replacement plans may be required as part of the development of a site, or for the removal of trees.

3. Why is the excavation going all the way to the property line?

Excavation activities can take place, if necessary, over the entirety of the subject property. Often excavation will go beyond the eventual building setback in order to properly pour a foundation, with other elements of the eventual design (e.g., stairwells or light wells) permitted to be closer to the property line than the main structure.

If an excavation removes material close to or up to the property line of a neighbouring property, shoring may be required, which may necessitate encroachment agreements. Developers must acquire the consent of the neighbouring property if encroachment is necessary.

4. Why is the road in front of the neighbouring development closed/reduced to one-way traffic?

Temporary road closures are sometimes required in order for a new development to connect to or install new services under the road, such as water, sewer, or drainage. Those closures are allowed with a Road Closure Permit obtained from the City. Developers closing a portion of road must still provide safe passage past the development for users of all ages and abilities.

5. Why has work stopped?

There are a number of possible reasons for a work stoppage on a construction site. The developer may choose to halt work for a time, or they may be subject to a permit hold or stop work order from the City. In those situations, the developer must address the issues raised by the City before work can begin again.

6. Who do I contact at the City if the developer/contractor isn’t getting back to me?

The nature of the issue will determine what department should be contacted.

• For issues pertaining to zoning, site layout, or form of development, contact the Planning and Development Department by emailing the Planning and Development Department or calling 604-927-3430.
• To apply for building permits, schedule inspections, or for questions about excavation, demolition or construction, contact the Building Permits Department by emailing Building Permits Department or calling 604-927-3441.
• For issues around dirty or damaged boulevards and City utilities, damaged street trees, or run-off from a construction site on the street, email the Engineering and Public Works Department or calling 604-927-3500.
• For concerns about the health or loss of on-site trees, email the Urban Forestry Department or calling 604-927-3482\.
• For enforcement of bylaws, such as the Noise Bylaw or Unsightly Premises Bylaw, email Bylaw Enforcement or calling 604-927-7387 (7 days a week).