Are you a Good Neighbour?
The City of Merritt Good Neighbour Bylaw 2387 is designed to protect and enhance the community’s well-being by encouraging responsible property management and fostering harmonious relationships among residents. This Bylaw establishes a framework to uphold community standards, ensure public safety, and promote the responsible upkeep of properties. The Good Neighbour Bylaw 2387 (December 2024) replaces the previous version number 2238 (2018), and introduces updated regulations for property owners and occupants, providing clear guidelines for maintaining properties, addressing nuisances, and ensuring a safe and welcoming environment. With defined terms and enforcement measures, the Bylaw addresses key issues like property maintenance, nuisance activities, and noise, while safeguarding the rights of both residents and enforcement officers.
Noise
The Bylaw ensures a peaceful environment by prohibiting noise disturbances, such as loud engine brakes, disruptive animals, or unauthorized public address systems. Construction noise is limited to 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. unless permitted otherwise. Exceptions include emergencies or essential work by the City, utilities, or emergency services, ensuring neighborhoods remain quiet and enjoyable.
Property Maintenance
Residents and property owners must keep their properties clean and safe. The Bylaw prohibits unsightly conditions like graffiti, standing water, excessive weeds, or waste accumulation. Snow removal is required within 24 hours of snowfall, with stricter timelines for commercial areas. Boulevard and laneway maintenance, including vegetation upkeep, is also mandated to keep Merritt a well-maintained community.
Compliance Orders and Cost Recovery
When properties violate the Bylaw, a Bylaw Services Officer may issue a compliance order detailing the issue, steps to resolve it, and a deadline. Non-compliance allows the City to perform the necessary work and recover costs through administrative fees or the property tax roll. These measures ensure community standards are upheld effectively.
Nuisance Properties
Properties generating frequent nuisance service calls—more than one in 24 hours or more than three annually—can be designated as Nuisance Properties. The designation remains until 12 consecutive months pass without a nuisance call. Owners are responsible for Excessive Nuisance Abatement Fees, which can be added to property taxes if unpaid. This ensures accountability and maintains neighborhood peace.
Reconsideration
The Bylaw provides a fair process for residents to contest compliance orders, cost recovery, or nuisance fees by requesting reconsideration by Council. Applications must be submitted within 10 calendar days of receiving the notice, outlining the grounds for appeal. Council reviews and decides whether to uphold, amend, or overturn the decision, ensuring transparency and fairness.
Enforcement and Penalties
Bylaw Services Officers are authorized to inspect properties to ensure compliance. Obstructing officers is prohibited. Violations may result in fines ranging from $100 to $10,000, as outlined in the City’s Municipal Ticket Information Bylaw or Community Charter, plus prosecution costs. Persistent violations are treated as separate offenses, ensuring timely resolution.
The Good Neighbour Bylaw 2387 reflects Merritt’s commitment to fostering a clean, safe, and respectful community, ensuring residents and businesses can thrive together under shared standards of care and responsibility.
For More Information:
Linda Brick
Deputy Corporate Officer
linda.brick@merritt.ca
250.378.8634
