Mitigating hazards created by summer overgrowth

Greg Newing

Along with blooming gardens, the months of July and August also see increasing amounts of overgrowth in ditches along roadways.  This overgrowth can lead to hazards such as obstructed vision at intersections or decreased space for pedestrians on sidewalks and pathways.

According to Ville de Gatineau by-law 658-2010, property owners are required to maintain ditches adjacent to their property on the front and the sides.  This is a requirement even if the ditches are on municipal land, with the exception of ditches that are too steep or beyond a certain depth.

Owners should ensure that branches and any other debris are cleared from the ditch to ensure efficient waterflow and any vegetation or overgrowth that obstructs vision or encroaches on walkways should be removed or trimmed. Failure to maintain ditches may lead to fines of up to $1,000.

For details about measurements and maintenance regulations, visit https://www.gatineau.ca/ and click “Information and Services”, then “Municipal By-Laws” and then “Nuisances” on the left-hand menu. 

Anyone concerned about overgrowth or property owners who have questions about maintenance responsibilities should contact the city at 311 or submit a complaint online at the city’s website.

Photo caption: Blooming sumac trees photographed in Aylmer.

Photo credit: Alana Repstock