Municipal Right-of-Way

The municipal right-of-way is Town-owned land for public roads that provides space for roads, sidewalks, boulevards, drainage, street trees and utilities. It can extend beyond the curb or sidewalk into an area that looks like part of a front lawn.

What's included in the municipal right-of-way

• Roadways, curbs, gutters, sidewalks and driveway aprons
• Boulevards, ditches, medians and traffic islands
• Street trees, streetlights, signs and traffic equipment
• Above-ground and underground utilities

Where your property ends

The curb, sidewalk or edge of pavement is not always your property line. The width of the municipal right-of-way varies by location.

Your property survey can help you find your property line. If it is unclear, an Ontario Land Surveyor can confirm it. Your property’s parcel register (land title record) will show whether a utility easement is registered on your property.

Your responsibilities

As a property owner, your responsibilities include:

• Keeping the boulevard next to your property free of waste and keeping grass and weeds within the limits set by the Lot Maintenance By-law.
• Not blocking sidewalks, ditches, drains or culverts.
• Not piling snow or ice where it blocks a fire hydrant or makes it unsafe for people or vehicles to pass.
• Trimming trees, shrubs, hedges and other plants on your property so they do not obstruct sidewalks, roads, signs or sightlines.
• Maintaining your driveway apron (the part of your driveway within the municipal right-of-way) in good and safe condition.

Placing items in the municipal right-of-way

The Town manages use of the shared space that is the municipal right-of-way through by-laws, permits and agreements.

You need Town approval to place or build anything in the municipal right-of-way, unless the Municipal Right of Way By-law specifically allows it. 

This includes items such as fences, retaining walls, pillars, lighting, irrigation systems and decorative stones. These rules help keep the space safe and available for road maintenance, drainage and utilities.

Some features, such as driveway aprons and walkways, are allowed when they meet Town requirements. You need a permit to install, widen or change a driveway apron.

If you place a feature in the municipal right-of-way, you are responsible for its maintenance and for any damage to it. The Town may remove items that are not allowed and is not financially responsible for items it removes. Private landscaping disturbed by Town or utility work is not typically reinstated.