Property Standards By-Law

What You Need to Know

The City of Windsor has updated its Property Standards by-law to help keep buildings safe, clean, and well-maintained — protecting both residents and property values across the city.

What’s New?

The updated by-law (previously by-law 9-2019) includes several important changes designed to make expectations clearer for property owners and to better protect the public:

  • New Definitions: Adds clearer terms such as Derelict Building, Vacant Building, Neglect, and Stormwater Management System.
  • Vacant Buildings: Requirements outline that they must be maintained both inside and out, utilities must remain active, and exterior appearances must be kept in good condition. Boarding is now prohibited.
  • Drainage & Lighting: New standards are in place for private stormwater systems, rear yard drains, and exterior lighting.
  • Safety Enhancements: Requirements now include duct-type smoke detectors for shared furnaces and minimum ceiling heights for basement living spaces.
  • Clearer Enforcement: Rules have been aligned with the Ontario Building Code to support consistent enforcement city-wide.

These new rules will apply to all properties, including vacant lots, residential homes, commercial buildings, and heritage buildings.

Why It Matters?

The by-law update helps the City:

  • Respond Faster to Complaints: Streamlines inspections and follow-up.
  • Keep People Safe: Prevents unsafe living conditions and reduces fire risks.
  • Protect Neighbourhoods: Ensures properties are well cared for, preserving property values.
  • Encourage Community Pride: Cleaner and safer areas benefit everyone.
  • Support Growth and Investment: A well-maintained city attracts new residents and businesses.
  • Strengthen Downtown: Supports the Strengthen the Core – Downtown Windsor Revitalization Plan.

What Property Owners Need to Know

Property owners are responsible for keeping their buildings and yards up to the new standards.

  • All vacant properties must remain in good condition and have utilities maintained.
  • Exterior lighting must meet the Nuisance Lighting by-law (146-2025) requirements.
  • Regular maintenance helps prevent enforcement action and keeps neighbourhoods looking their best.

Need Help or Have Questions?

Visit City of Windsor Building by-laws, email buildingdept@citywindsor.ca or call 311 for more information.

What You Need to Know

The City of Windsor has updated its Property Standards by-law to help keep buildings safe, clean, and well-maintained — protecting both residents and property values across the city.

What’s New?

The updated by-law (previously by-law 9-2019) includes several important changes designed to make expectations clearer for property owners and to better protect the public:

  • New Definitions: Adds clearer terms such as Derelict Building, Vacant Building, Neglect, and Stormwater Management System.
  • Vacant Buildings: Requirements outline that they must be maintained both inside and out, utilities must remain active, and exterior appearances must be kept in good condition. Boarding is now prohibited.
  • Drainage & Lighting: New standards are in place for private stormwater systems, rear yard drains, and exterior lighting.
  • Safety Enhancements: Requirements now include duct-type smoke detectors for shared furnaces and minimum ceiling heights for basement living spaces.
  • Clearer Enforcement: Rules have been aligned with the Ontario Building Code to support consistent enforcement city-wide.

These new rules will apply to all properties, including vacant lots, residential homes, commercial buildings, and heritage buildings.

Why It Matters?

The by-law update helps the City:

  • Respond Faster to Complaints: Streamlines inspections and follow-up.
  • Keep People Safe: Prevents unsafe living conditions and reduces fire risks.
  • Protect Neighbourhoods: Ensures properties are well cared for, preserving property values.
  • Encourage Community Pride: Cleaner and safer areas benefit everyone.
  • Support Growth and Investment: A well-maintained city attracts new residents and businesses.
  • Strengthen Downtown: Supports the Strengthen the Core – Downtown Windsor Revitalization Plan.

What Property Owners Need to Know

Property owners are responsible for keeping their buildings and yards up to the new standards.

  • All vacant properties must remain in good condition and have utilities maintained.
  • Exterior lighting must meet the Nuisance Lighting by-law (146-2025) requirements.
  • Regular maintenance helps prevent enforcement action and keeps neighbourhoods looking their best.

Need Help or Have Questions?

Visit City of Windsor Building by-laws, email buildingdept@citywindsor.ca or call 311 for more information.

Page published: 31 Oct 2025, 09:49 AM