Getting the municipal answers you need

Do I need a dog license? Where do I get a fire permit? What recreational programs does the Town offer?

Over the next few weeks, I am delighted to share with you the answers to some of the most common questions from our residents.

Serving as a regional councillor for the Town for nine years and your mayor for four years, I have dealt with many resident issues and concerns. Since many of our residents are new and some of the Town policies have been updated, I thought that it would be a good opportunity to provide you with some of the basics for Caledon life.

The Town does have a Noise & Nuisance bylaw that is enforced by our bylaw enforcement department and the OPP. Summer time is when most Ontarians entertain outside with BBQs and get-togethers. It is important to be considerate of your neighbours while hosting outdoor activities. Any unreasonable noise can result in tickets being issued. When you live in close proximity to your neighbours, it's not mandatory to inform them that you will be having a gathering- but it can often go a long way in establishing a great relationship with those living around you.

When you have guests staying over and there is no room to park in your driveway, call the Town of Caledon parking exemption number at 905-584-2272 ext. 4131 prior to midnight to avoid being ticketed. Onstreet parking is prohibited between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. throughout the Town of Caledon. A total of six parking exemptions are granted per household. If your vehicle is parked in your driveway, but it is obstructing the sidewalk, you can be ticketed. For safe mobility of our residents, these sidewalks must remain clear.

Does your four-legged fury friend require a licence? Yes, all dogs within the Town of Caledon require a dog licence. Licences are available at town hall and the Caledon Animal Shelter located at 12889 Coleraine Drive in Bolton. If your dog goes missing or you have found a dog, please call the animal shelter right away at 905-857-5208 or 1-866-818- 5493.

The Caledon Animal Shelter also provides additional services of adoption of domesticated cats and dogs, houses a boarding facility for dogs and cats, has a doit yourself grooming facility and fully fenced 10-acre leash-free park.

Summer time and vacations often mean special projects around the house (at least they do in my home). Before starting any work on a new shed, deck or addition, you should check with staff at town hall or our Web site at www.caledon.ca to see if you will require a building permit for the work you are about to commence. Failing to obtain a building permit when required can result in a Stop Work Order and a fine. For the safety of you and your family, building permits are required to make sure that the plans and the construction meet Ontario's building codes.

When working around your home outside it is important to note that the Town does have bylaws in place to regulate swimming pools and fencing. Also, Caledon was one of the first municipalities to establish a pesticide bylaw that prohibits the application of pesticides during July and August (unless there is an infestation that is confirmed by a qualified IPM applicator). Prior to any company applying pesticides on your lawn, you should check with Town staff to ensure that the company has its IPM qualifications.

Have a great summer!