Bylaw Enforcement
Bylaw Enforcement promotes, facilitates and enforces general compliance with bylaws that pertain to the health, safety and welfare of the community. The goal of bylaw enforcement is not to penalize but to achieve compliance through education in order to preserve the quality of life enjoyed by the citizens of Smithers.
The Bylaw Enforcement Officer investigates written complaints received from the public about alleged violations of various municipal bylaws. These regulations may include such things as:
- Property conditions (i.e. graffiti, unsightly premises, nuisance and noise);
- Animal control and licensing;
- Signs (i.e. unauthorized placement/construction);
- Business Licensing and Zoning;
- Parking and snow removal.
While there are certain areas of enforcement that are safety related and require proactive enforcement, the majority of bylaws are enforced on a complaint basis. This ensures that the Town is serving the needs of the community and that the complaints received are of high importance.
How to Make a Complaint
To make a complaint regarding a violation of regulations contained in one of these bylaws, the Town requires the complainant to provide the following information:
- Name, address and phone number of the complainant;
- Relationship to the property or individual subject to the complaint;
- Location of the property and description of the issue.
Complaints are received in various ways:
- Online (request for service)
- By phone (250-847-1600) or fax (250-847-1601)
- In person at the Town Office (Monday to Friday 8:30-4:30) at 1027 Aldous Street
Should the complainant refuse to provide the above information, no action may be taken by the Town to investigate the complaint. Complainant information is considered as confidential and will not be released to the person whose property is under complaint, unless under an order made by the Provincial Freedom of Information Commissioner.
After a written complaint is submitted, the Bylaw Enforcement Officer may wish to call and confirm information, or ask further questions regarding the issue.
Backyard Hen Keeping
On December 8th, 2015, the Town of Smithers Council approved a bylaw to permit the keeping of up to 6 Backyard Hens for domestic purpose as an auxiliary use to a detached, single-family dwelling on any lot greater than 550m2 (5,920 ft2) and zoned R-1, R-2, R-6, R-7, A-1 and P-1 Zones. There are a number of regulations that property owners must follow including the registration of your Backyard Hen Flock for a $15 fee. The following links will provide you with more information regarding Backyard Hen Keeping in Smithers:
- Your Guide to Backyard Hen Keeping. A guide and checklist to help you understand the Town’s regulations and Bylaws.
- Hen Flock Registration Form.
- Web Resources when considering the Backyard Hen Keeping in Smithers.