Private approach By-law review

The City of Ottawa is reviewing and updating its Private Approach By-law. A private approach is the part of your driveway or walkway that crosses over City property (typically, that short stretch between your lot line and the street or sidewalk).

Why now?

The by-law hasn’t had a major update since 2003, and a lot has changed. The Province has introduced new housing policies that support multi-unit homes, and Ottawa is updating its zoning rules accordingly. That means we also need to review the driveway and access rules to keep everything consistent, clear, and fair.

What’s being looked at?

The City wants to make sure rules for driveways and walkways are easy to understand, and that permits and approvals are smooth and straightforward. This review will also address:

• How wide driveways can be

• Rules for shared driveways or laneways

• Maintenance responsibilities

• Clarifying rules for walkways through City land

Whether you're a homeowner or a contractor, this by-law affects what you can and can’t build on the City’s right of way, and not following it could mean penalties or needing to undo work.

How you can get involved

Have questions or feedback? Want to know what changes are coming? Visit the Engage Ottawa project page to:

• Learn more about the review

• Ask City staff your questions

• See how it could affect your home or neighbourhood