By-Law Enforcement

Whether you're enjoying a backyard fire or clearing brush, it’s important to follow the Burning Control By-law to keep our community safe and prevent wildfires.

Here are the key rules all residents and visitors should follow:

Open-air burning is only allowed with a permit. Any outdoor burning — including brush piles, yard waste, and incinerators — requires a permit from the Bracebridge Fire Department. Campfires for cooking or warmth at your home or cottage do not require a permit but must still follow safety rules.

• Campfires are allowed, but must be safe.
  • Fires must be no larger than 60 cm (2 ft) in diameter;
  • Keep fires at least 5 metres (16 ft) away from any structure, fence, trees, or property line;
  • Never leave a fire unattended;
  • Always have a means to extinguish it nearby (e.g., water hose, bucket)

No daytime burning (without a permit)
Open-air burning is only allowed between 6 p.m. and 8 a.m., unless you have a special permit. Daytime burning restrictions help reduce the risk of uncontrolled fires.

Burning is prohibited during fire bans
During high-risk conditions (like dry weather or strong winds), fire bans may be issued. Always check with the Bracebridge Fire Department before burning.

Fines apply for non-compliance
Violating the Burning Control By-law could result in fines or charges for the cost of emergency response. If the Bracebridge Fire Department is called to an illegal or uncontrolled fire, you may be billed for the response.

When in doubt, check it out
Before you burn, contact the Bracebridge Fire Department or visit the Town website to see if you need a permit or if a fire ban is in effect.

• 2014-018 Burning Control By-Law
• 2020-047 Burning Control By-Law (Amends 2014-018)
• View our Open Air Burning Brochure

This By-Law requires the owner of every property in Bracebridge to keep their property clear of garbage, debris and inoperative motor vehicles. It also requires that all fences and structures be kept in a safe condition.

Keeping your yard tidy isn’t just about curb appeal, it helps maintain community standards, reduce pests, and support neighbourhood safety. The Town’s Clean Yard By-law sets out the rules for how properties must be maintained.

Here’s what residents and property owners need to know:

Grass and Weeds Must Be Kept Under Control
Grass, weeds, and other vegetation must be cut and maintained below 20 centimetres (8 inches) in height. This helps reduce fire hazards, insect breeding, and the spread of invasive plants.

No Accumulation of Waste or Debris
Yards must be free of:

• Garbage or litter
• Appliances or discarded household items
• Vehicle parts or construction waste
• Unsafe or broken furniture

This applies to front, back, and side yards, and vacant lots too.

Limit Vehicle Storage Outdoors
Unlicensed, wrecked, or dismantled vehicles cannot be stored in your yard unless they’re inside a fully enclosed building or on a property properly zoned for that use.

Composting is Allowed – With Conditions
You can compost on your property as long as the material is kept in a proper container and does not produce strong odours or attract animals.

Notices Can Be Issued
If a yard is not maintained according to the by-law, the Town may issue a clean-up notice. If the issue isn’t resolved in time, the Town may complete the work at the owner’s expense.

Good Neighbours Keep Clean Yards
Let’s all do our part to keep Bracebridge safe, beautiful, and respectful for everyone. If you have concerns about a neighbouring property, you can submit a complaint through the Town’s By-law Enforcement office.

• Clean Yard By-Law
• Clean Yard Brochure

Dogs make great companions, but pet ownership comes with responsibilities. The Town’s Dog Control By-law helps ensure a safe, respectful community for everyone.

Here’s what you need to know as a dog owner in Bracebridge:

All Dogs Must Be Licensed.
Every dog living in Bracebridge must be licensed each year and wear a valid tag. This helps reunite you with your pet if it becomes lost.

Dogs Must Be Leashed in Public
Your dog must be on a leash and under control at all times when off your property, unless you're in a designated off-leash area.

Pick Up After Your Pet
You are required to clean up dog waste immediately on public and private property. Carry bags with you; it's the law and the polite thing to do.

Limit of Three Dogs per Household
Most properties in Bracebridge are limited to three dogs per dwelling. Special exceptions may apply for kennels or breeders with the appropriate zoning and permits.

No Excessive Barking or Aggressive Behaviour
Dogs must not bark excessively, disturb the peace, or act aggressively toward people or other animals. Owners are responsible for ensuring their dogs are well-behaved and secure.

No Running at Large
Dogs found off-leash and not under control may be seized by By-law Enforcement. Owners may be subject to fines.

Additional resources:

• View our Dog Control By-Law
• View Amending Dog Control By-Law
• View Amending Dog Control By-Law

During election season, signs are a common sight, but they must follow local rules to ensure safety, visibility, and fairness. The Election Sign By-law outlines where, when, and how signs can be displayed.

Here’s what candidates, campaign teams, and residents need to know:

When Can Signs Go Up?

• Municipal Elections: Signs can be displayed starting September 1 of the election year.
• Federal or Provincial Elections: Signs can go up the day the writ is issued.
• All signs must be removed within 72-hours after voting day.

Where Signs Are Allowed

• On private property with the owner’s permission
• On certain public road allowances, but only in permitted areas (not medians, sidewalks, parks, or roundabouts)
• Signs must not block traffic sightlines, sidewalks, driveways, or create a hazard.

Where Signs Are NOT Allowed

• On Town-owned buildings or property (including parks, facilities, or cemeteries)
• On trees, utility poles, or traffic signs
• Within 10 metres of a voting location (including advance polls)

Size and Placement Rules

• Must not exceed sign dimensions or height limits outlined in the by-law
• Signs must be securely installed and in good condition
• Placement must not interfere with traffic, pedestrians, or maintenance

Non-Compliance Can Lead to Removal or Fines
The Town may remove any signs that violate the by-law. Costs for removal may be charged to the candidate or campaign.

The Town’s Noise By-law helps reduce disruptive sounds and maintain a respectful environment in our neighbourhoods.

Here’s what residents and visitors need to know:

Quiet Hours Are in Effect Overnight
Most noise is prohibited between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. This includes things like:

• Loud music or shouting
• Power tools or construction
• Vehicle idling or engine revving
• Barking dogs (if persistent)

Music and Parties Must Be Kept Reasonable
Whether indoors or outdoors, amplified sound (like speakers, bands, or DJ setups) must be kept at a level that doesn’t disturb your neighbours, especially during quiet hours.

Construction Noise is Regulated
Construction activity is only permitted between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. This includes equipment operation, hammering, and heavy machinery. Work outside of these hours may require special permission from the Town.

No Shouting or Loudspeakers in Public Spaces
The use of megaphones, PA systems, or other loudspeakers in parks or public areas is not allowed without prior approval.

Vehicle and Equipment Noise is Also Covered
Excessive noise from vehicles, such as repeated horn honking, modified mufflers, or unnecessary engine revving, is prohibited at any time of day.

Be considerate of your neighbours and help keep Bracebridge peaceful for all. If you’re planning an event or project that may create noise, contact the Town in advance to learn about exemptions or permits.

• View our Noise By-Law
• View our Noise Brochure