Home Residents By-Laws & By-law Enforcement

The Municipality of Huron Shores enacts and enforces by-laws under the authority of the Municipal Act, 2001 and other applicable provincial legislation. Municipal by-laws help protect public safety, maintain property standards, preserve the natural environment, and support a respectful and sustainable community.

By-laws apply to all properties and residents within the Municipality.

By-law Enforcement Services

January 2026

The Municipality employs a full-time By-law Enforcement Officer who is responsible for:

  • Investigating complaints related to municipal by-laws
  • Conducting site inspections
  • Educating residents on by-law requirements
  • Working toward voluntary compliance
  • Issuing orders, notices, and charges where necessary

Our approach emphasizes fairness, consistency, and education. Formal enforcement measures are used when voluntary compliance cannot be achieved or where public health, safety, or property standards are at risk.

How to Submit a Complaint

If you believe a municipal by-law is being contravened, please contact the Municipal Office:

Submit a Service & Feedback Request Form
Phone: 705-843-2033
Email: bylaws@huronshores.ca

To assist with investigation, please provide:

  • The address or location of the concern
  • A description of the issue
  • Relevant dates and times
  • Your contact information

Complaints are handled confidentially to the extent permitted by law. Anonymous complaints may limit the Municipality’s ability to investigate.

HOW THE COMPLAINT PROCESS WORKS

  1. A complaint is received and reviewed.
  2. The By-law Enforcement Officer conducts an investigation.
  3. Where a violation is confirmed, the property owner is contacted.
  4. A reasonable timeline for compliance may be provided where appropriate.
  5. Further enforcement action may be taken if compliance is not achieved.

The Municipality seeks voluntary compliance in most situations.

CONFIDENTIALITY AND UPDATES

Once a complaint is received, the matter becomes an enforcement file between the Municipality and the property owner. Due to privacy considerations, the Municipality does not routinely provide status updates regarding investigations, compliance measures, or enforcement actions. Complainants will be contacted if additional information is required to support an investigation.

If concerns persist after a complaint has been submitted, residents are encouraged to contact the Municipal Office again so the matter can be reviewed.

Community and Safety Services

The Municipality works in partnership with other agencies to support community safety. Depending on the nature of your concern, the following services may be able to assist:

Ontario Provincial Police
For criminal matters, traffic offences, or immediate public safety concerns.
Non-emergency: 1-888-310-1122
Emergency: 911

Algoma Public Health
For septic systems, public health concerns, or environmental health matters.

Building Department
For building permits, construction inspections, and structural safety matters. Complete a Service Request Form.

Fire Department
For fire safety, burn restrictions during fire bans, and emergency response.

If you are unsure who to contact, please call the Municipal Office, 705-843-2033 and staff will assist in directing your inquiry.

Frequently Requested By-laws

For convenience, electronic copies of commonly requested by-laws are provided below. These documents are provided for reference purposes only and may not reflect the most recent amendments. To obtain an official certified copy, please contact the Municipal Office.

The Municipality is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and well-maintained community for residents and visitors. By-laws are adopted by Council under the authority of the Municipal Act, 2001 and are enforced fairly and consistently.

We appreciate the cooperation of residents in achieving voluntary compliance and supporting community well-being.

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