Residential Grading and Drainage Inquiries

Grading or landscaping improvements that impact the surface drainage system of a property or adjacent properties are regulated under our Site Alteration By-law. Residents who experience impacts or have concerns about grading or landscaping within their property or adjacent properties may make an inquiry with the City. Residents may request the City to investigate a grading inquiry by completing the Grading and Drainage Inquiry Form. As part of this Form, residents will need to acknowledge that submitting this inquiry will result in the City conducting an investigation under our Site Alteration Bylaw including conducting inspections and making contact with all property owners. Residents are advised that anonymous complaints are not permitted as the City will need to make contact with adjacent property owners as part of our investigation. 

Grading and Drainage Inquiry Form

The following is a list of typical improvements to properties that may cause drainage concerns. 

• New swimming pool
• New residential home
• Walkways within side yards
• Flower beds, gardens or other landscaping
• Patio decks with retaining walls
• Garden sheds or Cabanas

Inquiry Processing

Once the Grading and Drainage Inquiry Form is completed and submitted to the City, staff will contact the resident within three  working days and will arrange a time to inspect the property. City staff will undertake an investigation within two weeks to determine if there are any grading or drainage violations under our site alteration by-law. If violations are determined, a resident may be required to undertake some grading or drainage improvements within a reasonable timeframe. If the required improvements are not completed within the specified timeframe, an administrative penalty may be issued or the matter may be referred for By-law enforcement and legal action.