TORONTO, Ontario – Toronto’s pesticide bylaw entered a new enforcement phase on Sept. 1 as lawn care companies, landscape contractors and commercial properties are subject to charges for non-compliance.
"This is the latest phase in the city's campaign to encourage natural lawn and garden care practices," said Dr. David McKeown, Medical Officer of Health. "As we enforce the bylaw, our inspectors will be firm but fair in promoting compliance and reducing the use of pesticides."
Public Health inspectors will investigate complaints about pesticide use and issue a ticket or court summons for violations to any company or property owner that has previously received a warning letter.
Since April 1, 2005, inspectors have been issuing letters and educational materials to companies who violated the bylaw. A ticket has a set fine of $255 while a summons has a maximum fine of $5,000 and is settled in court. While homeowners and renters are required to comply with the bylaw, they are not subject to fines until Sept. 1, 2007.
The first phase of the bylaw began in 2004 with inspectors and health promotion staff focusing on education and outreach to the public and lawn care companies. Information about the bylaw is on the city's Web site in eight languages.
Residents can call 416/338-7600 to report suspected violations of the bylaw or to get more information about natural lawn and garden care.