July 2025
Are there laws governing how much foliage overgrowth is allowed and how much lighting outside? We are now being forced to take our dogs out the back door, and there is inadequate lighting and overgrowth of trees with coyotes, etc., and is a very unsafe situation. I am a retired, handicapped, senior with a very small dog. I am afraid and don’t know what my rights are.
B. L.
Response from Toronto Condo News
Safety and pet policies are common concerns in high-rise and condominium buildings.
All decisions on these matters are under the control of your condo board. While they are required to comply with municipal, provincial and federal laws on all matters, your concerns are in areas that are more general in nature and do not have formal laws regulating their conduct.
The need for lighting on a private property is determined by the Condo Board, often with a view toward convenience, comfort and security. This is also impacted by monthly condo fees which are needed for their installation, maintenance and eventual replacement.
Condo boards have authority to determine pet policies and protocols which can include requiring that owners keep their pet leashed on the property, and that pets enter and exit a building through a designated door. This is not uncommon and often intended to eliminate problems with pets in common areas that can be a threat to others or cause damage.
If you are concerned about the safety of your outdoor area because of inadequate lighting, coyotes, tree overgrowth or other factors, this should be brought to the attention of your condo board by way of a letter so that your concerns are adequately documented. You can request that they improve an outdoor area by installing lighting or better landscaping. The final decision on this is up to your condo board which has authority in determining how your monthly condo fees are spent.
I hope this is helpful to you.
