Property Maintenance

Unsightly Premises

Residents are responsible for maintaining their properties in a clean and presentable manner, free of garbage, debris and other unsightly matter. Unsightly properties can have a negative impact on neighbourhoods and the general enjoyment of our community. They may lead to the perception that an area is unsafe and uncared for, which can in turn lead to negative effects such as increased levels of graffiti, vandalism, crime, and other negative activities. A poorly maintained property may also devalue the property itself and the neighbouring properties; pose health and safety risks; and result in nuisances to the neighbourhood due to odours, rodents, pests and wildlife, etc.

In accordance with the City of Chilliwack’s Community Standards Bylaw:

• An owner/occupier of land must not allow or permit their property to become unsightly.
• Examples of items contained within the definition of unsightly in the bylaw include, but are not limited to: the accumulation of garbage, rubbish, filth and discarded materials; deterioration of fences; uncontrolled growth of grass and weeds; and the presence of graffiti.
• All garbage, rubbish or debris must be stored in a waste container with a tight fitting lid.
• Grass or other similar ground cover must be kept trimmed such that they do not exceed 25 centimetres in height.

In accordance with the City of Chilliwack's Solid Waste Management Bylaw:

• An owner/occupier of land must not allow or permit garbage, recyclables, or compostable waste to collect on the property unless it is securely contained in a waste container or receptacle with a close-fitting lid.

Boulevards

Residents are responsible for maintaining the boulevards abutting their properties. The City of Chilliwack's Community Standards Bylaw and Highway and Traffic Bylaw require that owners/occupants:

• Maintain their boulevards free of garbage, debris, and overgrown or unsightly vegetation.
• Keep the grass or other similar ground cover trimmed such that they do not exceed 25 centimetres in height.
• Prevent landscaping and trees on their property from encroaching onto sidewalks or roadways, or from obstructing traffic control devices such as Stop Signs and No Parking signs.

Alien Invasive Species

Residents are responsible for managing invasive species on their properties, such as noxious weeds. 

In accordance with the City of Chilliwack's Community Standards Bylaw:

• An owner/occupant must not allow or permit the growth of alien invasive species on the property
• Examples of plants that are contained within the definition of alien invasive species include, but are not limited to: Canada Thistle, Giant Hogweed, Giant Knotweed and Japanese Knotweed.

Trees

Residents are required to maintain trees on private property such that they do not encroach onto a roadway or sidewalk. The City of Chilliwack does not otherwise regulate the trimming of trees on private property. Issues regarding neighbouring trees, such as encroaching branches, are a matter between neighbours for which the City has no involvement. If you are unable to reach an agreement with your neighbour and want to determine your legal rights, you should contact a lawyer.

NOTE: This information guide is provided as a general reference only. A complete certified copy of the bylaw is available for reading or purchase from the Clerk's Department at the Municipal Hall, 8550 Young Road, Chilliwack, Monday to Friday between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm, 604.793.2986.