Gravenhurst approves vacant building by-law and penalties for unused properties

The by-law is designed to improve the appearance of the downtown core and other areas in the town

Gravenhurst Council approved a vacant building by-law and penalties for unused properties, in the April 21, 2026, meeting.

The new Vacant Building and Land Registry By-law introduces new rules, registration requirements, and escalating penalties aimed at addressing long-term vacant commercial properties in the community.

According to the staff report, the by-law is intended to improve the condition, appearance, and use of vacant buildings and land, particularly in key commercial areas such as the downtown core.

It follows concerns raised in 2025 about the state of underused properties and builds on earlier direction from Council to strengthen enforcement and accountability.

Under the framework, property owners of vacant buildings or land will be required to register their properties through an online system and pay an initial registry fee of $1,000 per unit or parcel.

The program will include ongoing communication from the Town's Economic Development Division, with follow-ups and formal notices issued to ensure compliance.

The by-law also introduces a 90-day education and compliance period before penalties are enforced. After that, properties that remain unregistered or out of compliance could face escalating fines.

Renewal fees would increase annually, starting at $3,000 in the first year and rising to $5,000 in the second year for continued vacancy.

The report adds that additional penalties include $2,500 for failing to register within the required timeframe, increasing to $5,000 if the penalty is not addressed promptly.

Property owners who fail to meet maintenance and appearance standards—such as proper window coverings or exterior upkeep—could face fines of $1,500 per infraction.

Enforcement would be carried out under the Town's existing administrative penalty system, with further action available through the Provincial Offences Act, including compliance orders or court proceedings in more serious cases.

Staff also noted that the by-law shifts the approach from incentives alone to a balance of incentives and penalties, with the goal of encouraging property owners to maintain and actively use their buildings.

The program also includes provisions to address complaints about the appearance of vacant properties and maintain the overall character of commercial areas.

Manager of Economic Development, Amy Taylor, indicated that legal counsel was involved with creating the by-law which addresses both vacant buildings and land, and said staff ensured it “was impactful.”

She added, “The by-law has teeth and stands on its own.”

Upon inquiry by Council, she also explained that exemptions to the by-law would involve unique situations such as a family loss or critical illness. Taylor said, “We do have the ability to work with those property owners.”

Mayor, Heidi Lorenz, said, “I think this is a fantastic new story.” She added, “I think this is a long time coming.”

Council will continue to review the by-law as it moves toward implementation.