- Identify the Issue: Familiarize yourself with the Township's by-laws if possible.
- Collect Details: Note the location, time, and date. Photographic or video evidence is helpful if available.
If there is an Emergency with an immediate threat to safety or property, dial 911.
By-law Enforcement
Georgian Bluffs is committed to fostering a safe, welcoming community by upholding municipal by-laws. Our By-law Enforcement officer is here to address community concerns, provide information, and ensure by-laws are followed.
Reporting By-law Violations
Our By-law Officer handles concerns related to violations like noise, nuisances, parking, and more. The focus is on resolving issues while educating and working with the community to prevent future violations.
Short-Term Accommodation 24/7 Hotline
To report issues with short-term rental properties, please call (226) 909-2060 or report online through Contact GB. For more information, visit the Georgian Bluffs STA page.
How to Report a By-Law Violation
If you encounter a situation that you believe violates our by-laws that you are unable to resolve through friendly conversation, you can report it to our By-law Officer. Here's how:
Step 1: Identify and Gather Information
Step 2: Contact By-law Enforcement
- Online: Submit your complaint through the Contact GB portal.
- Phone: Call 519-376-2729 ext. 307 during business hours for assistance.
- 24/7 STA Hotline: For issues specific to Short-Term Accommodations, call (226) 909-2060.
Please note that anonymous complaints will not be accepted. Provide your name and contact information for follow-up.
The By-law Officer will review your report and may conduct a site visit or contact involved parties, often within a week. Most complaints are resolved quickly, often without punitive action. Some cases may lead to charges or proceed to the Provincial Court system.
By-Law Hours and Availability
By-law officers work flexible hours covering weekdays, weekends, and evenings but are not available 24/7. For urgent issues outside of by-law hours, contact the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) at 911.
During the 2024 summer season, the Township will partner with a third-party security firm to assist with general by-law enforcement and the new short-term accommodation licensing process. This partnership will expand enforcement coverage, including weekends and holiday evenings.
Understanding the Enforcement Process
When a complaint is received, the By-law Officer investigates to verify the issue, which may involve contacting the complainant, speaking with neighbours, or visiting the site.
If a violation is confirmed, the goal is to resolve the issue amicably. If the issue cannot be resolved, formal charges may be laid, and the case may proceed to Provincial Court.
Court Proceedings and Penalties
Cases that go to court are overseen by a Justice of the Peace. Penalties may include fines and a record in the Provincial Court system.
By participating in the by-law enforcement process, you contribute to maintaining the high standards that make Georgian Bluffs a great place to live.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if immediate action is needed?
For urgent concerns involving safety, contact the OPP immediately.
Why might there be no immediate action on my report?
While most cases are resolved quickly, some require additional information or legal procedures that may take longer. Persistent issues should be reported to identify and address patterns of behaviour.
I have been reported multiple times—why?
Each complaint is thoroughly investigated, and action is only taken when there is clear evidence. Vexatious or baseless complaints are not pursued.
I reported an issue to by-law, and nothing was done. Why?
More than 90% of issues are resolved during the first visit without further action needed. If we lack information or the problem persists, please report it again so we can document any ongoing issues. In some cases, full resolution may take time, especially if court involvement is necessary.
To receive updates, file your complaint through ContactGB. This provides you with a case number for automatic status updates.
I called the OPP, and no action was taken. Why?
OPP dispatches officers based on call priority. Even if an officer is not available, calls are logged, which is helpful for tracking recurring issues.
Contact Us
Township of Georgian Bluffs
177964 Grey Road 18,
Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N5
Send Email to Georgian Bluffs
Phone: 519-376-2729
Fax: 519-372-1620
Contact Us
By-law Enforcement
177964 Grey Road 18,
Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N5
Email By-law Enforcement
Phone: 519-376-2729 ext. 947
Fax: 519-372-1620