Whereas the appearance of run down and poorly maintained vacant and derelict buildings can have negative effects of neighbouring homes and businesses, become occupied by squatters, and deter investment and redevelopment of neighbouring properties; And whereas property owners often keep vacant and derelict homes and buildings, rather than remove or demolish them due to favourable bank or finance lending terms afforded due to their existence: Therefore be it resolved that the Federation of Canadian Municipalities be asked to work with the appropriate orders of government, and regulatory authorities, to implement the appropriate legislative or Bank Act changes needed to address this issue.
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Municipalities currently possess broad authority under the Community Charter to regulate, prohibit and impose requirements in relation to unsightly premises. Section 83l of the Community Charter provides municipalities with the fundamental power to create bylaws in relation to the regulation of buildings and structures. In addition, Sections 81h and 64 of the Community Charter provide authority to specifically regulate unsightly premises, including: graffiti, accumulation of refuse and water, overgrowth of trees and weeds, and general unsanitary conditions. Also, section 74 of the Community Charter authorizes a council to declare a dilapidated or unclean building or structure to be a nuisance and impose remedial action requirements. The Community Charter also has some incentive tools to address such properties. For example, section 226 of the Community Charter allows to municipalities to encourage development of derelict properties through a revitalization tax exemption. Ministry staff are prepared to provide advice and assistance to municipalities on any of the above-listed legislative tools.