At the Standing Committee on Policy and Strategic Priorities on November 10, Council approved a report in principle on the Abandoned and Vacated Building Bylaw (AVBB). The proposed AVBB enables the Chief Building Official (CBO) to issue orders to secure vacated buildings and authorize demolition in circumstances where a building is determined to be unsafe. With the aim of preventing vacated buildings from becoming fire hazards, structurally unsafe, or a menace to health, the proposed AVBB will require buildings to be maintained to minimum standards and secured against unauthorized entry.  

These measures are intended to have property owners bring vacated buildings into compliance with safety standards. Staff recommend escalating penalties for non-compliance and new administration fees to discourage reliance on the City as a de facto property manager to promote accountability and long-term compliance. 

More information can be found in the full report by City staff.