Enforcement and By-law Services

The Niagara SPCA and Humane Society enforce our Animal Control By-law. It promotes responsible pet ownership and animal care within the community. Regulating the care, licensing, and control of animals helps protect public safety, ensures the humane treatment of animals, and fosters a harmonious environment for residents and their pets.

Report animal issues to the Humane Society by calling 905-356-4044 or using their online form. You can report things like:

• Concerns about animal or livestock welfare
• Dead animals on the roadway
• Dogs running loose, confined dogs, dog bites, or constant barking
• People feeding coyotes
• Illegal kennels or having too many animals
• Keeping animals that are not allowed

Business licensing

The Licensing By-law ensures that businesses in Niagara Falls are licensed and operate responsibly. These rules support fair practices, promote public safety, and help maintain a thriving local economy.

Learn the types of businesses we license and how to apply on our Business Licences and Renewal page.

Bed and Breakfasts

The Bed and Breakfast By-laws ensure that B&Bs are licensed and operate responsibly.

To view a list of licensed properties or to apply, visit our Bed and Breakfasts page.

Owner occupied short term rentals (OOSTR)

The Owner Occupied Short Term Rentals By-laws ensure these businesses are licensed and operate responsibly.

To view a list of licensed properties or to apply, visit our Owner Occupied Short Term Rentals page.

Vacation Rental Units

The Vacation Rental Unit By-laws ensure these businesses are licensed and operate responsibly.

To view a list of licensed properties or to apply, visit our Vacation Rental Units page.

• The Property Standards By-law states that all yards must have proper drainage to handle surface water and prevent ponding or water entering basements, cellars, or crawlspaces. Roof drainage or sump pump discharge must not flow onto sidewalks, stairs, neighbouring properties, streets, or the sanitary sewer system.
• The Rain Water Leaders and Downspouts By-law helps ensure rainwater flows away from buildings and doesn’t flood nearby properties. It prevents water damage and helps reduce the risk of basement flooding.

The Fence By-law ensures fences are safe, well-maintained, and properly built. It prevents hazards from damaged fences, promotes neat and secure properties, and keeps fences at safe heights for public safety.

For more information, check our Fences page.

The Noise Control By-law helps keep the community peaceful by preventing loud noise that could disturb people’s rest or enjoyment. It also includes rules to control noise from construction work.

The Public Nuisance By-law addresses acts of public misconduct, such as:

• Destruction of public property
• Graffiti
• Loitering
• Littering
• Public fighting
• Public hygiene violations  

The Property Standards Bylaw makes sure that buildings and properties are safe, clean, and well-maintained. Check our Property Standards page for more information.

The Litter and Maintaining of Land By-law ensures a neat and healthy environment. It prevents tall grass, garbage and other debris from becoming safety hazards, attracting pets, or creating an eyesore. It includes rules about maintaining yards and boulevards:

• Long grass and weeds
• Garbage and debris
• Private drains
• Vehicle storage, including recreational vehicles

Building and renovating: All building construction governed by a building permit must meet the standards under the Ontario Building Code and the Building Code Act. The Building Permit By-law outlines construction, demolition, change of use, occupancy permits, transfer of permits, inspections and associated fees. Visit the Building and Renovating page to learn more.

On February 4, 2025, City Council adopted a Snow Clearing By-law to make it easier for everyone to move safely during the winter. The goal is to reduce the risks of snow and ice on sidewalks while keeping costs low. The by-law will start on October 1, 2026, with a public education campaign before then. It requires property owners to keep sidewalks in front of their homes clear of snow and ice.

Check the Snow Clearing page for future updates.

We enforce the Zoning By-laws for the City of Niagara Falls.