Excessive noise is defined as any noise that is emitted or produced that is beyond the regular operation of the motor vehicle. Under the Traffic Bylaw, excessive noise refers to a motor vehicle that is capable of emitting any sound exceeding 92 dB(A) while the engine is at idle or emitting any sound exceeding 96 dB(A) while the engine is at any speed greater than idle.

Throughout the operation, conducted in partnership with the Calgary Police Service (CPS), peace officers issued 240 tickets including 41 noise-related violations, and provided 40 warnings to drivers. The initiative targeted ongoing concerns from residents, businesses and City Council about excessive vehicle noise and safety along the corridor.

“Operation Silent Night demonstrated the value of combining officer presence, education, and enforcement to address issues that matter to Calgarians,” said Brad Johnson, Inspector and head of the Traffic Safety Team. “The results show that when drivers understand the rules and see a visible enforcement presence, we can make a meaningful difference in reducing excessive vehicle noise and improving the quality of life for residents and businesses.”

The enforcement initiative focused on overall driver behaviour down along 17 Ave. Some of the violations that officers came across were noisy exhaust systems, excessive engine revving, squealing tires and other unnecessary vehicle noise along with speeding, illegal U-turns, and no registration / or insurance.

"Driver behaviour can disrupt communities and impact livability," said Johnson. "Drivers are responsible for their behaviour and the noise generated by their vehicles at all times."

Team shifts focus to playground zone safety

With the completion of Operation Silent Night, the Traffic Safety Team has resumed playground zone enforcement as students return to classrooms across Calgary. Officers will be rotating through communities across the city, beginning in northwest Calgary, with a focus on speeding and improving safety around schools and playgrounds.

Playground zones are in effect daily from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., year-round. Drivers must obey the posted speed limit and remain alert for children, pedestrians and other vulnerable road users.

Speeding fines in playground zones are based on how far a driver exceeds the posted speed limit. Drivers travelling 15 km/h over the limit can face a fine of $249, while those travelling 30 km/h over the limit can face fines of $543, not including victim surcharges and demerit points.

“Back-to-school season is one of the busiest times of year around schools and playgrounds,” said Johnson. “Slowing down in playground zones is one of the simplest and most effective ways drivers can help keep children safe. A few extra seconds behind the wheel can prevent a serious collision and make our communities safer for everyone.”

The City reminds motorists to reduce their speed, eliminate distractions and watch for children who may enter roadways unexpectedly.

About the Traffic Safety Team

The Traffic Safety Team was established by City Council in November 2023 with $1.69 million in funding to address growing concerns about road safety and vehicle noise. The team includes eight peace officers, two sergeants and one inspector, and works closely with CPS and other partners to support coordinated, city-wide traffic safety enforcement.

Residents wishing to submit a complaint about traffic issues can do so by visiting the Calgary Police Service Traffic Reporting page and selecting the Traffic Service Request (TSR) form.

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Through interactive lessons in Social Studies, English and Health, students will engage in discussions and activities that connect classroom learning to real community issues. The program helps students better understand the role Community Peace Officers play in supporting safe communities while encouraging students to consider how they can contribute positively to the city around them.

Teachers participating in the program receive a ready-to-use manual developed by certified educators and Community Peace Officers. The manual includes lesson plans, classroom activities and supporting resources to help teachers deliver the program and prepare students for a culminating classroom visit and mock interview experience with Community Peace Officers. “Beyond the Badge gives students a unique opportunity to connect what they are learning in the classroom to the communities they live in every day,” said Lucy Roy, Community Liaison Officer with Community Standards. “By exploring citizenship, civic responsibility and community safety in an engaging way, students gain a deeper understanding of how they can make a positive contribution to their communities.”

The program was designed to help students build practical skills, collaborate with their peers and develop an understanding of local government and community services. By participating in the program, students learn about citizenship, rights and responsibilities, teamwork and career pathways in public service.

“We want students to see that community safety is a shared responsibility and that everyone has a role to play in creating strong, vibrant neighbourhoods,” said Rajdeep Gill, Community Liaison Officer with Community Standards. “Beyond the Badge provides hands-on learning experiences that encourage students to think critically, work together and explore future career possibilities.”

Beyond the Badge is offered free of charge to Grade 9 classrooms and supports outcomes related to citizenship, life learning choices and collaborative learning. The program helps students understand local bylaws, explore community partnerships and develop skills that support future educational and career transitions.

Teachers can access program resources and learn more about participation through the Beyond the Badge webpage. Teachers will have access to the teacher manual online, allowing them to review lesson plans and program materials before booking the culminating officer visit.

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In partnership with the Calgary Police Service (CPS), the enforcement and education blitz will run throughout August during the afternoons and evenings.

This initiative addresses ongoing concerns from residents, City Council and local businesses, and helps improve safety and livability along the corridor. Drivers operating excessively loud or modified vehicles can expect increased monitoring, education and fines. The team will also continue regular traffic safety enforcement and address pedestrian safety concerns as needed across the area.

Why reducing vehicle noise matters

Vehicle noise disrupts daily life and affects physical and mental well-being, particularly in busy areas.

Inspector Brad Johnson, head of the Traffic Safety Team, says noisy vehicle complaints continue to be among the top concerns of Calgarians each summer. “Reducing unnecessary vehicle noise creates quieter, safer streets and a more enjoyable environment for everyone who lives, works and visits these areas.”

Examples of common noisy vehicle violations include:

• Noisy exhausts and mufflers
• Excessive engine revving
• Squealing tires
• Roaring or explosive sounds
• Loud stereos
• Amplification equipment
• Recurring or prolonged vehicle alarms
   

Additionally, modifying vehicles to increase noise, such as installing aftermarket mufflers or altering exhaust systems, is a violation of the Traffic Safety Act and subject to penalties.

“Peace officers assess objectionable vehicle noise using a range of factors, including measurements and information such as location, time of day, volume and duration,” says Inspector Johnson. “Drivers are responsible for all noise generated by their vehicles, and violations may result in fines, including $270 for exceeding legal limits and $300 for failing to comply with a noise test.”

Ward 8 Coun. Nathaniel Schmidt agrees that excessive vehicle noise has a real impact on Calgarians' quality of life.  “Residents should be able to sit on a patio or sleep with the window open without a vehicle roaring past and drowning everything out,” he says. “This campaign strengthens enforcement and raises awareness, and I want to be clear: it is an important step forward. While there is more work to do, we need every tool available to address this issue, and I will continue supporting efforts to strengthen our ability to tackle excessive vehicle noise in Calgary.”

Ernie Tsu, owner of Trolley 5 Brewpub, says noisy vehicle enforcement on 17^th is also welcomed by local businesses.

“17th Avenue is one of Calgary's most vibrant destination districts. Initiatives that help reduce excessive vehicle noise, support local businesses and create a more enjoyable experience for residents and visitors. We're pleased to see action being taken to address concerns raised by the community.”

About the Traffic Safety Team

The Traffic Safety Team was established by City Council in November 2023 with $1.69 million in funding to address growing concerns about road safety and vehicle noise. The team includes eight peace officers, two sergeants and one inspector, and works closely with CPS and other partners to support coordinated, city-wide traffic safety enforcement.

The team began operations in March 2025, focusing on speeding and safety in playground zones. The current shift to noisy vehicle enforcement reflects seasonal trends, as playground zone monitoring decreases in summer while noise complaints increase, particularly in high-complaint areas such as 17 Avenue S.W.

How to report

Residents can report noisy vehicles by calling the Calgary Police Service’s non-emergency line at 403-266-1234 or 311 (phone, app or online). Urgent safety issues should be reported to Calgary Police via 9-1-1. Reports help The City and police identify problem areas and prioritize enforcement efforts.

For more information, visit calgary.ca/trafficsafetyteam.

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Community Safety Peace Officers are out each night taking noise readings from nearby residential locations. We’re pleased to report that every noise reading taken for Cowboys Music Festival has been below their allowable maximum decibel limit as prescribed in their Noise Exemption Permit.

After multiple warnings, a ticket was issued last night to event organizers at Badlands Music Festival tent for exceeding their allowable maximum decibel limit. That ticket is now under review. We strongly encourage event organizers to adjust decibel levels to comply with their noise exemption permit and to avoid escalating enforcement action.

More information can be found at Noise at major events.

The next noise complaint and violation data update will be issued on July 9, 2026.

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The blitz brought together Alberta Health Services, Calgary Safety Codes, Calgary Fire Department, Airdrie Fire Department, High River Fire Department and The City of Calgary’s Business Safety, Business Registry, and Trade Inspection teams to provide onsite inspections, education and next‑step guidance for food truck and trailer operators.

A total of 144 food trucks were inspected during the 2026 blitz.

“The goal is compliance and safety, not penalties,” said Michael Briegel, Deputy Chief of Business Safety. “By bringing all the required inspections together, we help operators understand and meet expectations, fix issues early and open for the season with confidence.”

During the blitzes, inspectors focused on these requirements:

• Fire suppression systems, extinguishers and hood cleanliness
• Proper food handling, sanitation and temperature control
• Safe propane, gas and electrical connections
• Wastewater handling and disposal
• Valid business licences, insurance and approvals
   

Businesses were also required to request a mobile food inspection in advance and ensure that required permits, inspection reports and documentation were on site.

The City of Calgary runs food truck safety blitzes annually to support public safety, ensure compliance, protect customers and help local businesses succeed. Food truck operators who were unable to attend must schedule each required inspection separately through regular City channels.

More information on mobile food vehicle requirements is available at www.calgary.ca/for-business/licences/mobile-food-vendors.html.

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For years, this issue has affected neighbourhoods across Calgary and has become more severe in recent years, particularly in northeast communities.

“Illegal dumping isn’t just unsightly. It creates real safety risks and pulls City crews away from other essential work,” said Damian Cole, Deputy Chief of Community Safety at The City of Calgary. “Every illegal dumping call means resources are redirected from services Calgarians rely on.”

Dumped waste attracts pests, creates fire hazards and makes parks, alleys and open spaces feel unsafe. It also places an unfair burden on neighbours and communities that must live with the impacts.

The City of Calgary urges residents to dispose of waste properly and legally, as proper disposal helps keep our neighbourhoods safe, clean and accessible. 

Free Community Cleanup events begin

Community Cleanup events take place across Calgary from April 25 through September and are open to all Calgarians. These free events are organized by community organizations with support from The City and provide a no‑cost way to dispose of oversized household items that do not fit in the black cart.

Details and event dates are available at calgary.ca/cleanups. 

Put waste in the right place
In addition to free Community Cleanup events, Calgarians can choose from several legal disposal options:

Cart/bin collection: best for everyday household garbage, recycling and compostables. Items must fit inside the right cart and be set out correctly. Large or extra items along fences or near carts or dumpsters are not collected.

City Eco Centres: best for bulky items, including furniture, appliances and construction materials. Fees may apply.

Private junk removal services: best for large loads, quick removal or when transport is an issue. Licensed junk removal companies can haul away unwanted items for a fee. These services are not provided by The City of Calgary.

To find the right option for any item, residents can use the City’s free online search tool at calgary.ca/whatgoeswhere, which shows approved disposal methods across Calgary.

How to report illegal dumping

If you see illegal dumping, report it as soon as possible by contacting 311 – via phone call, 311 app or online.

Providing details such as the exact location, photos and the license plate number of the vehicle involved helps support our investigation and a faster cleanup.

Community pride starts with action

Keeping our communities clean and safe is a shared responsibility. Whether it is disposing of waste responsibly, talking with neighbours, sharing information or reporting concerns, everyone has a role to play.

“Proper disposal shows respect for your neighbours, your community and the shared spaces we all rely on,” said Deputy Chief Cole. “Using the right disposal option helps keep neighbourhoods safe, clean and accessible for everyone.”

Your actions shape how our communities look and feel. For more information, visit calgary.ca/dumping.

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Last year, the CPS received more than 200 calls for service within six days related to unauthorized fireworks, many tied to cultural festivities. The volume of complaints and associated risks prompted serious concern.

“Our officers have been actively connecting with community members to highlight the public safety risks linked to the unauthorized use of fireworks. We’re committed to ensuring public safety while encouraging respectful and joyful celebrations throughout the year,” says Calgary Police Service District 5 General Investigative Unit Staff Sergeant Geoff Gawlinski.

In 2024, Calgary International Airport considered shutting down an active runway due to fireworks discharged nearby. Officials are urging residents to avoid similar disruptions this year.

Safety first

In North America, fireworks account for over 19,000 fires and send more than 9,000 people to emergency rooms each year.

“Fireworks can cause serious injuries and with Calgary experiencing one of the driest fall seasons on record, it’s more important than ever to not use fireworks unless you have a permit,” says Pete Steenaerts, Deputy Chief of Risk Management at the Calgary Fire Department. “One spark could set off a fire that could damage your home or community. It’s crucial that all Calgarians respect these regulations and leave fireworks to the professionals.”

Fireworks regulations and fines

Under City of Calgary Bylaw 55M2014, the following penalties apply:

• Possession of fireworks or pyrotechnics without a permit: Minimum fine of $500
• Use of fireworks without a permit: Minimum fine of $250
• Sale of fireworks without a permit: Minimum fine of $250

Violations may also breach the National Fire Code (Alberta Edition), which can result in further fines and even jail time as outlined in the Safety Codes Act. Failure to comply is defined as the failure to obtain the necessary permits prior to installing or igniting fireworks or pyrotechnics.

If you are found guilty of non-compliance, the consequences are:

• First offence: Fines up to $100,000 and up to $1,000 for each day where the offence continues and/or imprisonment for up to 6 months.
• Second offence: Fines up to $500,000 and up to $2,000 for each day where the offence continues and/or imprisonment up to 12 months.

These penalties apply not only to residents, but also businesses that are illegally selling fireworks.

“The unauthorized sale of fireworks by businesses within Calgary city limits is a direct violation of municipal bylaws,” says Michael Briegel, Deputy Chief of Business Safety. “All businesses must ensure they are operating within the law. Selling fireworks without a valid permit is illegal and may result in significant fines or enforcement actions. We encourage business owners to familiarize themselves with the regulations and reach out to The City if they have questions about compliance.”

Responsible holiday celebrations

As Calgarians prepare for upcoming celebrations, The City urges all residents and businesses to prioritize safety and respect the regulations in place. Fireworks are beautiful when handled by professionals — but dangerous when misused.

Residents are encouraged to report non-emergency firework-related concerns to 311. For more information on fireworks permits and regulations, visit calgary.ca/fireworks.

Let’s celebrate responsibly and keep Calgary safe for everyone.

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This marks the first time The City of Calgary’s peace officer training program has welcomed participants from other municipalities, offering a shared learning experience that brought together officers from both urban and rural communities.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see officers from different communities come together, learn from one another and build lasting connections,” said Training Sergeant Ian Stewart. “This class brought a wide range of experience and perspectives, and we’re proud to have helped prepare them for the important work ahead.”

Zach Dorscheid, a Calgary Transit peace officer and class valedictorian, brings a strong sense of purpose to his new role. Originally from a small town in southern Alberta, Dorscheid is passionate about improving public safety and community well-being.

“This career allows me to be out in the public, solving problems and helping people every day,” said Dorscheid. “I’m especially proud to be part of a team that’s working to make transit feel safer and more welcoming for everyone.”

Colby Pederson, one of the external graduates, will be returning to serve Wheatland County. A Mount Royal University graduate, Pederson said The City’s training program gave him the confidence and skills to succeed in law enforcement.

“The instructors were knowledgeable and supportive, and training alongside officers from other jurisdictions gave me a broader perspective,” said Pederson. “I’m proud to be part of a program that gave me the tools to serve my rural community with confidence and compassion.”

Jonathan Mey, representing Banff Municipal Enforcement, brought a wealth of international experience to the class. A former detective constable with the South African Police Service, Mey immigrated to Canada in 2021 with his wife and three children, settling in Banff.

“This program was something I’ve worked toward since arriving in Canada,” said Mey. “The instructors were exceptional, and the training was adapted to reflect our towns and situations we may come across. I know my father, who served 44 years in law enforcement but is sadly no longer with us, would be proud of what I’ve achieved.”

The graduates come from diverse backgrounds and bring a wide range of experiences to their new roles. Whether driven by a passion for community service, a commitment to public safety or a desire to make a meaningful impact, each officer is united by a shared goal: to serve and protect with integrity and compassion.

The City of Calgary remains committed to supporting the development of skilled, community-focused peace officers who are ready to serve Calgary – and beyond – with professionalism and care.

These amendments enable officers to proactively address the visible display of such objects and mitigate potential threats before they escalate. This decision follows a rise in the use of bear spray as a weapon during assaults and robberies, which highlighted enforcement gaps and raised significant public safety concerns. 

The bylaw does not prohibit possession but restricts the open display of objects that could reasonably be perceived as threatening. Violations under the bylaw carry a $250 fine. The definitions of “weapon” and “noxious substance” are structured using inclusive, non-exhaustive language: 

- Weapon includes knife, axe, hatchet, machete, baton, imitation firearm, bat, or saw. 

- Noxious substance includes pepper spray, bear spray, or other oleoresin capsicum or capsaicin spray, or any other chemical or hazardous liquid, spray, powder, or substance that is capable of harming, injuring, or irritating a person or animal. 

“Together, The City and the Calgary Police Service advocated for these changes to expand enforcement ability and close the gap between the Criminal Code and the Public Behaviour Bylaw,” said Ryan Pleckaitis, Chief Bylaw Officer. 

“These amendments also align with the Transit Bylaw and close an enforcement gap between transit property and the rest of the public realm, allowing officers to respond more consistently when weapons or noxious substances are visibly present in public spaces,” said Chief Pleckaitis. 

To support equitable enforcement, The City of Calgary applies an anti-racism lens to assess potential impacts on Indigenous, Black, and other racialized communities, religious groups, and individuals experiencing homelessness. This review emphasized clear definitions and lawful or cultural exemptions, such as for kirpans, to ensure enforcement is fair, consistent and aligned with the Charter. 

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Vehicle noise is more than just an annoyance. It disrupts daily life, affects mental and physical well-being, and reduces the livability of our communities. The City of Calgary is asking all drivers to be mindful of how their vehicles impact others.

“Loud vehicles affect everyone,” said Inspector Brad Johnson, head of the Traffic Safety Team. “This is about shared responsibility. We all contribute to safer, quieter streets through respectful driving and awareness of how our actions affect our neighbours.”

What is a noisy vehicle?

 Examples of common noisy vehicle violations include:

• Noisy exhausts and mufflers
• Excessive engine revving
• Squealing tires
• Roaring or explosive sounds
• Loud stereos
• Amplification equipment
• Recurring or prolonged vehicle alarms

Additionally, modifying a vehicle to increase noise, such as installing aftermarket mufflers or altering exhaust systems, is a violation of the Traffic Safety Act and subject to penalties.

What drivers need to know

The Traffic Safety Team utilizes advanced tools, including calibrated decibel meters, noise sensors and body-worn cameras, to detect and document violations. Enforcement is focused on areas with high traffic complaints and noise reports.

Peace officers assess objectionable vehicle noise utilizing various factors, including technological measurements, data and information such as location, time of day, volume and duration of the objectionable noise. Drivers are responsible for all noise generated by their vehicles.

Fines include:

• $270 for operating a vehicle over the legal noise limit
• $300 for failing to comply during a noise level test

Help reduce noise pollution

Here’s how you can help:

• Keep your vehicle in good shape and take it in for repairs promptly when needed
• Reduce your stereo volume and avoid excessive engine revving
• Drive with consideration and respect your neighbours
• Restore your vehicle to its original condition if you have modified it with after-market parts

Residents can report noisy vehicles through 311 (phone, app or online). Urgent safety issues should be reported to Calgary Police via 9-1-1. Reports help The City identify problem areas and prioritize enforcement efforts.

Why reducing vehicle noise matters

Vehicle noise affects our health. Studies link traffic noise to stress, poor sleep and reduced focus. In Calgary’s growing communities, especially near major roads, the impact is real.

Reducing vehicle noise is about respect. Simple actions like maintaining your vehicle and driving mindfully help create safer, more livable communities for everyone – from shift workers trying to sleep during the day, to families with young children, residents in care homes, and people enjoying an evening on the patio on 17^th Avenue S.W.

“We all have a part to play,” said Johnson. “A city with less noise pollution is more welcoming, more livable and better for everyone.”

About the Traffic Safety Team

Emergency Management and Community Safety’s Traffic Safety Team began operation in March 2025.

In November 2023, Council voted to create the Traffic Safety Act and allocated $1.69M in response to growing community concerns about road safety, excessive vehicle noise and the need for stronger collaboration with law enforcement agencies. 

The Traffic Safety Team helps provide additional resources to keep Traffic Safety a top priority in the City of Calgary. Our Peace Officers work in collaboration with Mobility Services, the Calgary Police Service, the Calgary Parking Authority, and other agencies to enhance and support the excellent work already being done in managing traffic safety.

Learn more

To learn more about the Traffic Safety Team and how Calgary is working to reduce vehicle noise, visit:
www.calgary.ca/trafficsafetyteam.

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Approved by Council in November 2023, in response to growing community demands and the need for closer collaboration with law enforcement, this initiative underscores our commitment to enhancing traffic safety.

Starting March 2025, the Traffic Safety Team will work in collaboration with the Calgary Police Service (CPS) and Calgary 911 (C911) to enhance traffic enforcement while prioritizing public education. The initiative aims to reduce excessive speeding, vehicle noise, and other bylaw infractions, creating safer and more livable communities.

“Our priority is to protect Calgarians, especially in high-risk areas like playground zones,” said Community Safety Inspector Brad Johnson, spokesperson for the Traffic Safety Team.

“The Traffic Safety Act provides us with the framework to take meaningful action against traffic violations that put lives at risk,” added Johnson. “Our team is fully trained and equipped to address key concerns like speeding, noise pollution, and other safety hazards while fostering a culture of responsible driving.”

The Traffic Safety Team will be equipped with body-worn cameras and in-vehicle monitoring tools to ensure transparency and accountability in all enforcement efforts. Data collected from traffic monitoring will help identify high-risk areas and direct enforcement where it is needed most.

 “As Calgary continues to grow, there are more drivers, pedestrians and cyclists on the roads, and the need for traffic enforcement and safety education has increased, especially in playground zones,” said Andy Woodward, Acting Inspector of the CPS Traffic Section.

“Over the past few months, the CPS Traffic Section has worked closely with members of the Traffic Safety Team to help train peace officers and foster a close working relationship. Together, with the help of Calgarians, we will strengthen overall traffic safety in Calgary.

“Our primary goal is to ensure all Calgarians, including law enforcement officers, make it home safe every day.”

Calgarians can expect to see increased presence in high-complaint areas, with enforcement efforts expanding throughout 2025. Public awareness campaigns will be rolled out ahead of stricter bylaw enforcement to ensure residents and businesses understand the new initiatives.

“We want to give residents confidence that their concerns about traffic safety are being addressed,” said Johnson. “By proactively engaging with communities, we aim to build trust, encourage voluntary compliance, and ultimately make Calgary’s roads safer for all.”

For more information, visit calgary.ca/trafficsafetyteam.

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"I have been lucky to be a part of EMCS Class 2024-04 with Community Safety. I grew up in Calgary and have lived almost my entire life here; my close family all live within the city. My last employment was with Alberta Health Service as a protective services officer at the Peter Lougheed, and I can’t wait to expand my horizons to the entire City of Calgary. The huge scope of the training I’ve received as a new Community Safety recruit has been a great challenge and I love that I have the opportunity to pursue a variety of different adventures moving forward. said Graham Brightman, class leader for the graduating community peace officers.

The new graduates each have varied backgrounds and experiences and bring a unique perspective and skill set to their roles. From compassionate souls driven by a desire to make a positive contribution to their communities, to advocates for public safety with a keen sense of responsibility, the new peace officers stand ready to embark on their journey.

“I’ve had a great time going through training and enjoyed the time with my classmates, and I look forward to meeting more members of EMCS as I hit the roads,” Graham added.

Class leaders are nominated by their peers to represent them at the graduation ceremony and deliver speeches during the celebrations.

"I was born in Cebu City, Philippines and moved to Calgary in 2011. I completed a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at the University of Alberta. I'm excited to be joining the Transit Public Safety Team and starting a career that will be both challenging and rewarding," said Samantha Gayyed, class leader for the transit peace officers.

This year, the Transit Public Safety team and the Community Safety team have recruited dozens of additional peace officers to address social disorder and reduce incidents on Calgary’s transit system and within communities.

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After the success of the 2022 pilot project that allowed 100 people to keep backyard hens, The City has released an unlimited number of licences this year.

Beginning Wednesday, March 29, Calgarians can apply for an urban livestock licence to keep backyard hens. The program is aligned with national care guidelines and structured similarly to other municipalities across Canada that have successfully implemented urban hen programs.

“We heard from Calgarians that modern pet ownership means more than just caring for cats and dogs,” said Tara Decker, Coordinator of Administration and Pet Licensing, Animal Services. “The rules are designed to mitigate concerns before they start - things like not allowing roosters, and ensuring proper housing, training, care conditions and opportunities to address any concerns from your community,” says Decker.

Criteria

Calgarians interested in applying for an urban livestock licence will need to ensure egg-cellent hen-keeping training and caretaking to meet the application criteria:

• Be 18+ years old or have a parent or guardian apply on their behalf.
• Complete approved hen-keeping and care training.
• Own the property hens will be kept on or have written permission from the property owner.
• Acquire a free Premise Identification (PID) Number from the Government of Alberta.
• Hen licences must number 2 to 4, as hens are group animals.

Applicants must also contact Planning and Development to discuss where the coop will be built in their backyards.

More information on the urban hen program and licensing criteria is now available on Calgary.ca/pets.

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The investigation was conducted by City of Calgary Business Safety Officers as a result of public complaints via 311.  With the assistance of the Calgary Police Service the violations were observed, and the charges laid.

Deputy Chief Business Safety, Michael Briegel said, “I would like to thank those that reached out to us via 311 and would encourage others to do the same, if they learn of a business selling smoking and vaping products to minors. It is important that we protect the health of young people – age requirements are in place for these products for a reason.”

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The City is committed to ensuring that all Calgarians who wish to access public services and facilities are not being exposed to messaging or behaviour that is hateful, intimidates, harasses, or discriminates.

While demonstrations are still permitted, the bylaw will limit time, manner and location of specified protests within the vicinity of recreation facilities and libraries. This will create ‘access zones’ to ensure all Calgarians can safely access public facilities.

Specifically the bylaw:

-      Prohibits specified protests inside a City-operated recreation facility (or other designated facility) or within 100 metres of an entrance to, a City-operated recreation facility (or other designated facility) or library. This applies during operational hours and one hour before and after.

Specified protests are those objecting to an idea or action related to human rights; these include race, religious beliefs, colour, gender, gender identity, gender expression, physical disability, mental disability, age, ancestry, place of origin, marital status, source of income, family status or sexual orientation.

-       Prohibits attempts to block access for others to enter or exit a recreation facility or library.
 

The bylaw aims to strike a balance between respecting the right to protest and The City providing safe and inclusive access to public services.

Council will revisit the bylaw in one month’s time to determine the impact on the community and put forth any recommendations.

Council also passed an amendment to the term “harassment” under its existing Public Behaviour (street harassment) bylaw. The term will now explicitly include “intimidation”.

All Calgarians must be able to equally enjoy the benefits and resources offered at or through public facilities, regardless of gender, socio-economic status, age, ability, religion, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or heritage.  Inclusive public spaces that support diversity attract business, contribute to a thriving economy and to a prosperous city.

With our partners at Calgary Police Service, we will continue to ensure harassment of others, or violations of excessive noise or other Bylaw offences, are monitored, investigated and enforced. This can include us enforcing at the time of an offence, during an event, or in many cases, after the fact.

 

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Calgarians seeking a pigeon licence are required to have membership in one of two pigeon associations.

“Unlike keeping urban hens and bees, there is no formal training program available for pigeon care. The required pigeon association membership enables pigeon keepers to connect to the broader pigeon keeping community, where they receive needed care information and access to mentoring,” said Jennifer Lawlor, Strategic Services Leader, Calgary Community Standards.

Association membership includes information on the health and well-being of pigeons, including precautions to take in regard to recent avian flu concerns.

Calgarians interested in applying to keep pigeons must:

· Be 18+ years old or have a parent or guardian apply on their behalf.

·  Acquire a pre-application enquiry file number issued by Planning and Development (if they acquired pigeons after January 1, 2022).

·   Submit a site plan and details of housing needed for pigeons or proof that they kept pigeons prior to January 1, 2022.

·  Provide proof of ownership of property or consent of the property owner.

·  Provide proof of membership in either the Canadian Pigeon Fancier’s Association Inc./Association Canadienne du Pigeon de Fantasie Inc. or the Canadian Racing Pigeon Union.

Similar to beekeeping, Calgarians have been keeping pigeons in the city for over 100 years. Licensing regulation will ensure that any neighbouring concerns are addressed.

The update to the (RPO) Bylaw went into effect on January 1, 2022. Last revised over 12 years ago, the bylaw update recognizes that pet ownership in Calgary has evolved and includes the expansion of urban livestock. The bylaw continues to create a safe environment for pets and Calgarians.

More information on the urban livestock program and the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw is available on Calgary.ca/pets.

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Calgarians will now be able to report personally experienced or witnessed instances of street harassment in public spaces for investigation. An offence of the bylaw carries a fine of $500.

“The City of Calgary is taking a holistic approach to end street harassment, with measures that use collaboration, education, and enforcement to regulate behaviour that infringes on Calgarians’ ability to enjoy public spaces and feel safe in communities,” said Aalika Kohli, Business Strategist, Calgary Community Standards.

In addition to the bylaw, The City of Calgary is pursuing membership with the UN Women’s Safe Cities and Safe Public Spaces Program, a global initiative that bolsters cities’ ability to address the issue of harassment. More information will be made available soon.

Efforts to increase public awareness are also underway, including an advertising campaign encouraging Calgarians to be aware of their own safety and the safety of others, this summer.

How the bylaw works

In the bylaw, to ‘harass’ is defined as:
Communicating with a person in a manner that could reasonably cause offence or humiliation, including conduct, comment, or actions that refers to the person’s:

·       race/colour/ancestry/place of origin

·       religious beliefs

·       disability

·       age

·       marital status

·       source of income

·       family status

·       gender/gender identity/gender expression

·       sexual orientation;

and includes a sexual solicitation or advance.

Enforceable in public spaces

The bylaw applies to any instance of harassment behaviour that occurs within spaces that the public has access to in Calgary. This includes businesses such as restaurants, on sidewalks, in libraries, etc.

Infractions carry a higher fine of $500, which is meant to act as a deterrent of the behaviour.

“Every report and potential violation of this bylaw will be approached seriously and investigated,” said Ryan Pleckaitis, Chief Bylaw Officer, Calgary Community Standards.

How to report

Beginning June 1, 2022 incidents of street harassment can be reported through the Calgary Police Services non-emergency line at 403-268-1234, by calling 311 or creating a 311 service request online.

Those reporting incidents will be asked to share the nature of concern, description of the offender and the location of incident, in addition to as many details they feel comfortable providing that will support the investigation.

On December 15, 2020, Calgary City Council passed a Notice of Motion to address street harassment in Calgary and to understand the adverse impact it has on victims. There are no current provincial laws against Street Harassment in Alberta. The City of Calgary has a responsibility to support the well-being, comfort, and safety of Calgarians in public spaces.

More information is available at Calgary.ca/streetharassment.

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The program is aligned with expert care guidelines and structured similar to other Canadian municipalities that have successfully implemented local beekeeping regulations.

“Beekeeping has become an increasingly popular hobby in Calgary,” said Jennifer Lawlor, Strategic Services Leader, Calgary Community Standards.

“The City of Calgary wants beekeeping to remain a safe pastime, and the licensing regulations ensure new beekeepers are properly trained and adhere to commonly accepted beekeeping practices that prevent potential community issues.”

Through licensing of urban beekeeping, The City of Calgary can help address any problems and create solutions for the benefit of bees, keepers and their neighbours. The program has been created based on what has been working locally, expert perspectives, and what the licensing will regulate.

Licence or permit holders must:

·       Own the property where the colony is kept (or proof of consent by the property’s owner).

·       Provide proof of completion of training or mentoring or be able to provide proof that they were beekeeping in Calgary prior to January 1, 2022.  

·       Keep all housing consistent with what was approved in their application (and in good repair).

·       Notify The City of Calgary if the bee colony is being relocated or moved.

·       Adhere to municipal, provincial and federal legislation for distribution or sale of honey.

All Calgarians and businesses who keep bees in Calgary are now required to license their colonies under section 4 of the RPO Bylaw.

The update to the RPO Bylaw went into effect on January 1, 2022. Last revised over 12 years ago, the bylaw update recognizes that pet ownership in Calgary has evolved and includes the expansion of licensing that will also oversee regulation of pigeon keeping this spring. The urban livestock program ensures proper housing and care conditions are met for bees, and that any neighbouring concerns are addressed. Questions or concern can be directed to 311.

More information on the urban bee licensing program is now available on Calgary.ca/pets.

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During last year’s pilot, there were over 1,500 bookings. Based on feedback from participant surveys, more individual picnic tables have been added to high-density neighbourhoods where citizens may not have a private backyard to socialize with family and friends.

Starting May 10, responsible alcohol consumption is allowed between 11 a.m. and 9 p.m. at the following locations:

·       Neighbourhood picnic tables: Over 80 individual tables located in communities across the city can be booked for free or used on first-come, first-served basis. Alcohol consumption is only permitted at the table and not throughout the whole park.

·       Large picnic sites: Select sites that are located within regional parks and include multiple picnic tables can be booked in advance for a fee or used on a first-come, first-served basis. Alcohol consumption is only permitted within that picnic site and not throughout the whole park.

·       Open areas: Coming later this spring there will be six entire parks, or portions of parks, where you can lay down a picnic blanket, go for a walk or play a game while drinking alcohol. No booking will be required. Alcohol consumption will be allowed within the area designated by onsite signage.

Not all neighbourhood picnic tables, large picnic sites or City parks have been designated for alcohol consumption. Find out where you can drink responsibly at calgary.ca/alcoholinparks. All alcohol designated sites are distanced from playgrounds. Most sites do not have washrooms nearby so please plan ahead.

“Calgarians told us they appreciated being able to have a beer or glass of wine in our beautiful park spaces last year; especially those who do not have their own private backyard. We hope this year’s expanded program will encourage more people to connect with family and friends in a natural setting,” says Kyle Ripley, Director of Calgary Parks.

If an issue arises, citizens can call 311. Incidents will be addressed with education or enforcement. If issues persists, sites could be removed from the program.

To book a site or for more information, visit Calgary.ca/alcoholinparks.   

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The investigation was conducted by City business licence inspectors as a result of public complaints via 311.  With the assistance of the Calgary Police Service the violations were observed, and the charges laid.

Chief Business Licence Inspector, Michael Briegel said, “I would like to thank those that reached out to us via 311 and would encourage others to do the same, if they learn of a business selling smoking and vaping products to minors. It is important that we protect the health of young people – age requirements are in place for these products for a reason.”

Given the seriousness of the charges The City of Calgary will also be conducting a licence review hearing for Gemini Convenience store.

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Yearly, Community Cleanups result in the removal of over one million kilograms of waste and organic material. In 2021, the program collected a total of 1,091,058 kg of garbage and organics.

Community Cleanups are open to all Calgarians, regardless of whether they live in the host community. All Community Cleanup events occur on Saturdays and Sundays throughout Calgary until September.

Accepted materials – and what not to bring

· Accepted items include (but are not limited to) furniture (desks, chairs, sofas, old mattresses, etc.), toilets, and recalled or broken recreational products.

· Items like include barbecues, lawnmowers, household chemicals and large appliances can’t be accepted.

Calgarians should check calgary.ca/cleanups for the full list of accepted and restricted items before heading to a Community Cleanup event.

Community Cleanups help The City of Calgary and Calgarians work together to support ongoing compliance with City bylaws by helping maintain tidy properties and ensuring proper disposal of unwanted household items. For the full schedule and locations of events, visit calgary.ca/cleanups

The program is aligned with national care guidelines and structured similar to other municipalities across Canada that have successfully implemented urban hen programs.

“We heard from Calgarians that modern pet ownership means more than just caring for cats and dogs,” said Jennifer Lawlor, Strategic Services Leader, Calgary Community Standards.

“The urban hen program introduces urban livestock licensing and regulation to Calgarians, ensuring proper housing, care conditions and opportunities to address any community-based concerns are incorporated,” says Lawlor.

Criteria

Calgarians interested in applying for an urban livestock licence will need to ensure egg-cellent hen keeping training and caretaking to meet application criteria:

·       Be 18+ years old or have a parent or guardian apply on their behalf.

·       Complete approved hen keeping and care training.

·       Own the property hens will be kept on, or have written expressed content from the property owner.

·       Acquire a free Premise Identification (PID) Number from the Government of Alberta.

·       Confirm the number of hen licences requested (the RPO Bylaw requires ownership of between 2 to 4, as hens are group animals).

Applicants will also need to acquire a pre-application enquiry file number from The City of Calgary Planning and Development, depending on their site plan for where hens will be kept. Full details about the program and a coop checklist are available on Calgary.ca to guide applicants through the process.

Licence Lottery

The program will accept 100 applicants in its first year, as directed by Calgary City Council in June 2021 when the updated RPO Bylaw was passed. Should demand exceed 100 applicants, a lottery system will randomize applications once the intake has closed, to ensure equity. The first 100 applications selected from the lottery will then be processed.

The urban livestock licence lottery will open on Monday, March 21 at 11:00 a.m. at Calgary.ca/pets, and will be open until Monday, April 18, 2022 at 11:59 p.m.

This gives Calgarians interested in the program enough time to understand program requirements and compile information needed for their application. This will be the only intake opportunity for Calgarians to apply for a hen keeping licence in 2022.

If necessary, a waitlist of additional applicants will be created through the lottery system. The waitlisted applications may be processed in 2022, or as part of the 2023 application intake.

Regulatory

Applicants will not be able to acquire their hens until their urban livestock licence is approved, as peace officers must first conduct an inspection of the backyard and coop/run prior to approval. Once approval is granted, licensed hen keepers must ensure hens remain in the coop or an enclosed run, and stay on the licensed property.

Roosters are not permitted and young hens (pullets) cannot be younger than 16 weeks old. Urban hen owners who do not abide by the conditions could have their licence revoked.

The update to the Responsible Pet Ownership (RPO) Bylaw went into effect on January 1, 2022. Last revised over 12 years ago, the bylaw update recognizes that pet ownership in Calgary has evolved and includes the expansion of licensing that will also oversee regulation of pigeon and bee keeping this year. The updated bylaw continues to create a safe environment for pets and Calgarians.

More information on the urban hen program and licensing criteria is now available on Calgary.ca/pets.

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We are currently in Stage 2 of the Government of Alberta Open for Summer Plan. While this is an exciting step forward, The City of Calgary would like to remind Calgarians that public health orders are still in place and will continue to be enforced for the safety of all.

The Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw came into effect August 1, 2020. The Government of Alberta now requires those unable to wear a mask due to a medical condition to obtain and provide an exception letter from an authorized health professional. On June 21, 2021 Calgary City Council voted to extend the municipal bylaw in the short term but will revisit the COVID-19 outlook again on July 5, 2021 to determine whether the bylaw will be repealed.

Enforcement of the temporary bylaw has resulted in:

•  555 violation tickets for failure to wear a face covering where required since August 1, 2020
  • Of those,16 violation tickets have been issued since June 16, 2021. 

While compliance with the temporary bylaw remains high in public spaces and Calgary Transit vehicles, increased enforcement presence and repeat offences have resulted in the increase in tickets.

The total number of tickets issued under the Public Health Act (PHA) since the State of Local Emergency was declared is:

• 217 violation tickets since November 24, 2020.
  • Of those, zero violation tickets have been issued since June 16, 2021.

Inspections
City business licence inspectors, peace officers and partners from AHS, CPS, Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis and Occupational Health and Safety have formed a Public Health Compliance (PHC) Team to monitor compliance, address concerns and support measures that help protect Calgarians. This team will continue to conduct proactive inspections and respond to concerns jointly, to ensure businesses are following public health orders. Any non-essential business found operating in contravention of the PHA could face multiple fines and the possibility of suspension or revocation of their business licence coupled with the charges.

The City of Calgary would like to thank citizens and businesses for their continued adherence to public health orders and for playing an important role in the health and safety of all Calgarians. Where violations are suspected, Calgarians or businesses can submit questions, concerns or report complaints to Alberta Health Services online or by calling 1-833-415-9179, or to The City by contacting 311 or the CPS non-emergency line at 403-266-1234.

More information is available on Calgary.ca/covid19.

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We are currently in Stage 2 of the Government of Alberta Open for Summer Plan. While this is an exciting step forward, The City of Calgary would like to remind Calgarians that public health orders are still in place and will continue to be enforced for the safety of all.

The Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw came into effect August 1, 2020. The Government of Alberta now requires those unable to wear a mask due to a medical condition to obtain and provide an exception letter from an authorized health professional. While the bylaw currently remains in effect until the end of 2021, the provincial health order rules on masks will be enforced over the bylaw while in place. Administration will be presenting a quarterly report on the Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw to Council on June 21, 2021.

Enforcement of the temporary bylaw has resulted in:

•  539 violation tickets for failure to wear a face covering where required since August 1, 2020
  • Of those, 20 violation tickets have been issued since June 8, 2021.
     
• One ticket has been issued for failure to display prescribed signage in an entryway of a public indoor space. This is the only ticket issued of this nature since August 18, 2020.

While compliance with the temporary bylaw remains high in public spaces and Calgary Transit vehicles, increased enforcement presence and repeat offences have resulted in the increase in tickets.

The total number of tickets issued under the Public Health Act (PHA) since the State of Local Emergency was declared is:

• 217 violation tickets since November 24, 2020.
  • Of those, one of the violation tickets were issued since June 8, 2021.

Protests and demonstrations
An event organizer was issued a ticket under the PHA for contravening the outdoor social gathering limits by initiating a rally held at Central Memorial Park over the weekend. As with other protest enforcement efforts, The City of Calgary's priority is to ensure the safety of the public, attendees and our officers. Any planned rallies or demonstrations will continue to be enforced, in vehicles or otherwise.

Inspections
City business licence inspectors, peace officers and partners from AHS, CPS, Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis and Occupational Health and Safety have formed a Public Health Compliance (PHC) Team to monitor compliance, address concerns and support measures that help protect Calgarians. This team will continue to conduct proactive inspections and respond to concerns jointly, to ensure businesses are following public health orders. Any non-essential business found operating in contravention of the PHA could face multiple fines and the possibility of suspension or revocation of their business licence coupled with the charges.

The City of Calgary would like to thank citizens and businesses for their continued adherence to public health orders and for playing an important role in the health and safety of all Calgarians. Where violations are suspected, Calgarians or businesses can submit questions, concerns or report complaints to Alberta Health Services online or by calling 1-833-415-9179, or to The City by contacting 311 or the CPS non-emergency line at 403-266-1234.

More information is available on Calgary.ca/covid19.

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Today is the beginning of Stage 2 of the Government of Alberta Open For Summer Plan. While this is an exciting step forward and marks the reopening of many businesses, a slightly increased capacity for outdoor gatherings and reintroduction of outdoor public events, The City of Calgary would like to remind Calgarians that public health orders are still in place and will continue to be enforced for the safety of all.

The Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw came into effect August 1, 2020. The Government of Alberta now requires those unable to wear a mask due to a medical condition to obtain and provide an exception letter from an authorized health professional.

While the bylaw currently remains in effect until the end of 2021, the provincial health order rules on masks will be enforced over the bylaw while in place. The bylaw was created to be nimble in response to the ongoing pandemic, and The City of Calgary has the opportunity to make amendments or repeal the bylaw at the direction of City Council.

Enforcement of the temporary bylaw has resulted in:

•  519 violation tickets for failure to wear a face covering where required since August 1, 2020
  • Of those, 14 violation tickets have been issued since June 3, 2021.
• One ticket has been issued for failure to display prescribed signage in an entryway of a public indoor space. This is the only ticket issued of this nature since August 18, 2020.

While compliance with the temporary bylaw remains high in public spaces and Calgary Transit vehicles, increased enforcement presence and repeat offences have resulted in the increase in tickets.

The total number of tickets issued under the Public Health Act (PHA) since the State of Local Emergency was declared is:

• 216 violation tickets since November 24, 2020.
  • Of those, two of the violation tickets were issued since June 3, 2021.

Protests and demonstrationsTwo event organizers were issued tickets under the PHA for contravening the outdoor social gathering limits by initiating a rally held at Central Memorial Park over the weekend. As with other protest enforcement efforts, The City of Calgary’s priority is to ensure the safety of the public, attendees and our officers. Any planned rallies or demonstrations will continue to be enforced, in vehicles or otherwise.

InspectionsCity business licence inspectors, peace officers and partners from AHS, CPS, Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis and Occupational Health and Safety have formed a Public Health Compliance (PHC) Team to monitor compliance, address concerns and support measures that help protect Calgarians. This team will continue to conduct proactive inspections and respond to concerns jointly, to ensure businesses are following public health orders.Any non-essential business found operating in contravention of the PHA could face multiple fines and the possibility of suspension or revocation of their business licence coupled with the charges.

The City of Calgary would like to thank citizens and businesses for their continued adherence to public health orders and for playing an important role in the health and safety of all Calgarians.Where violations are suspected, Calgarians or businesses can submit questions, concerns or report complaints to Alberta Health Services online or by calling 1-833-415-9179, or to The City by contacting 311 or the CPS non-emergency line at 403-266-1234.

More information is available on Calgary.ca/covid19.

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On June 2, a new Ministerial Order renewed the ability for Community Peace Officers to enforce the Chief Medical Officer of Health’s (CMOH) Orders through the Public Health Act (PHA). The new Ministerial Order will be in place for 30 days, until July 2, 2021. As a result, City of Calgary Community Peace Officers will continue to enforce the provincial mask mandate, outdoor social gathering limits and place of worship restrictions.

The Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw came into effect August 1, 2020. On June 2, 2021 an update of an amendment to the bylaw came into effect. The amendment stipulates that the fine amount for those demonstrating willful non-compliance has increased from a specified penalty of $100 to $500 for the first offence of failure to wear a face covering where required. For a second contravention within a twelve-month period, the specified penalty is doubled to $1,000 and a third and subsequent contraventions will result in a $1,500 fine. The specified penalty for failure to display the prescribed sign remains unchanged at $200.

Currently, the Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw is in effect until the end of 2021 at the direction of City Council. The bylaw was created to be nimble in response to the ongoing pandemic, and The City of Calgary has the opportunity to make amendments or repeal the bylaw at the direction of Council. The repeal criteria to be considered by City Council is data-based and reflective of medical direction and expertise.

Enforcement of the temporary bylaw has resulted in:

•  505 violation tickets for failure to wear a face covering where required since August 1, 2020
  • Of those, 7 violation tickets have been issued since May 26, 2021.
• One ticket has been issued for failure to display prescribed signage in an entryway of a public indoor space. This is the only ticket issued of this nature since August 18, 2020.

The total number of tickets issued under the Public Health Act (PHA) since the State of Local Emergency was declared is:

• 214 violation tickets since November 24, 2020.
  • Of those, 1 of the violation tickets were issued since May 26, 2021.

Inspections

City business licence inspectors, peace officers and partners from AHS, CPS, Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis and Occupational Health and Safety have formed a Public Health Compliance (PHC) Team to monitor compliance, address concerns and support measures that help protect Calgarians. This team will continue to conduct proactive inspections and respond to concerns jointly, to ensure businesses are following public health orders.

Any non-essential business found operating in contravention of the PHA could face multiple fines and the possibility of suspension or revocation of their business licence coupled with the charges.

The City of Calgary would like to thank citizens and businesses for their continued adherence to public health orders and for playing an important role in the health and safety of all Calgarians.

Where violations are suspected, Calgarians or businesses can submit questions, concerns or report complaints to Alberta Health Services online or by calling 1-833-415-9179, or to The City by contacting 311 or the CPS non-emergency line at 403-266-1234.

More information is available on Calgary.ca/covid19.

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Last revised over 12 years ago, the bylaw update recognizes that pet ownership in Calgary has evolved and includes an urban hen program and the expansion of licensing that will oversee regulation of bee keeping.

“Today, pet ownership means more to Calgarians than just caring for cats and dogs,” said Jennifer Lawlor, Business Strategist, Calgary Community Standards. “The new RPO Bylaw is aligned with the needs and expectations we have heard from Calgarians, and balances effective compliance and education in response to new trends in animal care and ownership. We want to acknowledge and thank the 120,000 Calgarians who provided input for this bylaw update.”

The bylaw update was guided by input from comprehensive public engagement; including feedback provided by Calgarians, industry stakeholders, Councillors’ offices, City of Calgary staff, internal animal statistics, best practice information, a municipal scan of 33 communities and extensive industry research.

The updated bylaw continues to create a safe environment for pets and Calgarians. The Chief Bylaw Officer will have the authority to designate animals as vicious, in advance of Provincial Court proceedings, which will decrease the time the animal is held by Animal Services and can go home with safety parameters in place.

An expanded nuisance designation will allow the Chief Bylaw Officer to prescribe conditions for how a nuisance animal is kept to better mitigate community concerns and rehabilitate the animal.

Pet ownership will be limited to six dogs and six cats per household and the number of dogs a person can bring to an off leash area will be limited to six per individual. The bylaw also includes increases to fines for aggressive pet behaviours.

Highlights of changes coming into effect January 1, 2022

Urban hen program
The City of Calgary is developing an urban hen program that will ensure proper housing, care conditions and opportunities to address community-based concerns that are raised. The program will be aligned with national care guidelines and structured similar to other municipalities across Canada that have successfully implemented urban hen programs. The livestock licence program is expected to launch mid-2022. Initial permits in 2022-2023 will be capped at 100 households. Urban hen owners who do not abide by the conditions could have their licence revoked.

Urban bee keeping and licensing
Bee keeping is a successful and growing hobby in Calgary. Through regulation and licensing, The City of Calgary can help address any potential issues and create solutions for the benefit of the bees, keepers and neighbours. The City of Calgary will review what has been working and expert perspectives to determine the licensing program by the end of the year.

Expanded authority of Chief Bylaw Officer
Following a severe injury to a person, severe injury/death to another animal, or other significant safety risks, accused dogs currently wait months in The City of Calgary’s Animal Services shelter until the Provincial Court can hear the owner’s case. The expanded authority for the Chief Bylaw Officer to designate animals vicious will allow the dog to return home once designated, with safety conditions put in place.

Expanded nuisance designation
Currently, an animal can be declared a nuisance when it has repeatedly threatened or committed aggressive behaviour, has been found running at large more than once, repeatedly causes noise that disturbs any person, or the owner has demonstrated an inability to control the dog in an off-leash area. The updated bylaw includes an expanded nuisance condition to help curb further concerning aggressive or nuisance behaviour. This would be determined on a case-by-case basis, where specific controls can be put in place to ensure community safety measures are available in a timely manner.

Pet ownership limitations to curb issues
Challenges addressing smell and noise complaints in households with large numbers of cats and/or dogs help inform a new limitation to ownership of six cats and six dogs per household. The City of Calgary will provide excess animal permits to transition households that already have large numbers of cats and dogs into the new bylaw regulations, as well as accommodate breeders, animal foster households, etc.

Number of off-leash dogs
Individuals will be limited to care for and control no more than six off-leash dogs in an off-leash area at once, for reasonable monitoring. There is no limit to the number of dogs that can be walked on-leash. City Council has directed Administration to consult with the dog walking industry on this item and report back to Council by the end of 2021 with any amendments following.

Threatening situation in extreme temperatures
The bylaw will be updated to remove references to specific temperatures in cases where confinement of an animal places it in a life or health threatening condition. This enables community peace officers or first responders to act when needed on behalf of the welfare of an animal in a confined space in extreme temperatures.

What isn’t changing

Pet licensing
The updated bylaw maintains the current fees for licensing cats and dogs. These fees allow for Animal Services to reunite pets with their owners, care for adoptable pets, manage health and education programs, and run the no-cost spay & neuter program for those who qualify through the Fair Entry Program.

Enforcement of the bylaw
Community Peace Officers investigate through a lens of compassion and empathy while seeking to address the root cause of a problem. Each case is evaluated on an individual basis and officers consider the purpose and context of the situation. They apply objective standards during the application of enforcement to determine if there is an offence.

Barking, biting or chasing behaviours
No changes were proposed to section 23 in the current RPO Bylaw stating that an owner of an animal must ensure that the animal does not bark, howl, or otherwise make or cause a noise that disturbs other people. Similarly, there were no proposed changes to section 25(1) of the current bylaw prohibiting an owner from allowing their animal to bite, bark at, or chase stock animals, bicycles, automobiles or other vehicles.

Complaints will continue to be investigated using objective criteria to determine if enforcement action is warranted.

The bylaw review was directed by Calgary City Council as part of the One Calgary Service Plans and Budgets 2019 – 2022. The update of the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw will help ensure The City of Calgary reaches as many pet owners as possible and creates effective compliance and education of the trends impacting Calgarians and businesses.

In advance of the bylaw coming into effect on January 1, 2022, The City of Calgary will develop programs and licensing in support of the updated bylaw.More information will be made available on Calgary.ca/pets, including program and licensing information.

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The Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw came into effect August 1, 2020. On December 11, 2020 Calgary City Council extended the temporary bylaw through December 2021 and increased penalties for failure to wear a face covering and for repeat violations within a 12-month period.

On May 13, 2021 Provincial exceptions on wearing a mask changed. Calgarians who are unable to wear a mask due to a medical condition will require a medical exception letter from an authorized health professional. The letter may be presented in a public setting if requested by enforcement officials. While the bylaw remains in effect, the provincial health order rules on masks will be enforced over the bylaw when in place.

Enforcement of the temporary bylaw has resulted in:

•  466 violation tickets for failure to wear a face covering where required since August 1, 2020
  • Of those, 55 violation tickets have been issued since May 13, 2021.
• One ticket has been issued for failure to display prescribed signage in an entryway of a public indoor space. This is the only ticket issued of this nature since August 18, 2020.

While compliance with the temporary bylaw remains high in public spaces and Calgary Transit vehicles, increased enforcement presence and repeat offences have resulted in the increase in tickets.

The total number of tickets issued under the Public Health Act (PHA) since the State of Local Emergency was declared is:

• 213 violation tickets since November 24, 2020.
  • Of those, none of the violation tickets were issued since May 13, 2021.

Protests and demonstrations

Although no additional PHA tickets were issued by The City of Calgary over the second weekend of the updated public health order measures being in effect, corrective actions were taken. CPS made two additional arrests in relation to breaches of the Court of Queen’s Bench Order obtained by AHS. The order states that all COVID-19 public health measures must be followed for gatherings including protests, demonstrations, rallies and illegal indoor events. It also contains an enforcement clause that once served, gives police the powers to arrest organizers and promotors of events that do not meet the health orders.

As with other protest enforcement efforts, The City of Calgary’s priority is to ensure the safety of the public, attendees and our officers. Any planned rallies or demonstrations will continue to be enforced, in vehicles or otherwise.

Inspections
City business licence inspectors, peace officers and partners from AHS, CPS, Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis and Occupational Health and Safety have formed a Public Health Compliance (PHC) Team to monitor compliance, address concerns and support measures that help protect Calgarians. This team will continue to conduct proactive inspections and respond to concerns jointly, to ensure businesses are following public health orders.

Any non-essential business found operating in contravention of the PHA could face multiple fines and the possibility of suspension or revocation of their business licence coupled with the charges.

The City of Calgary understands the impact and tough circumstances faced by a number of businesses that are closed or have altered their services, balanced with the critical need to enforce continued adherence to the public health orders. We would like to thank citizens and businesses for their continued adherence to public health orders and for playing an important role in the health and safety of all Calgarians.Where violations are suspected, Calgarians or businesses can submit questions, concerns or report complaints to Alberta Health Services online or by calling 1-833-415-9179, or to The City by contacting 311 or the CPS non-emergency line at 403-266-1234.

More information is available on Calgary.ca/covid19.

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The Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw came into effect August 1, 2020. On December 11, 2020 Calgary City Council extended the temporary bylaw through December 2021 and increased penalties for failure to wear a face covering and for repeat violations within a 12-month period.

On May 10, 2021 Council voted to pass an amendment to the Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw to increase the violation penalty for failure to wear a face covering where required, from $100 to $500 for a first offence. The bylaw amendment received two readings and is expected to receive the third reading of the bylaw at the Combined Meeting of Council on May 31, 2021, when the fine increase will go into effect.

Enforcement of the temporary bylaw has resulted in:

•  411 violation tickets for failure to wear a face covering where required since August 1, 2020
  • Of those, 20 violation tickets have been issued since May 6, 2021.
• One ticket has been issued for failure to display prescribed signage in an entryway of a public indoor space. This is the only ticket issued of this nature since August 18, 2020.

The total number of tickets issued under the Public Health Act (PHA) since the State of Local Emergency was declared is:

• 213 violation tickets since November 24, 2020
  • Of those, none of the violation tickets were issued since May 6, 2021.

While no PHA tickets were issued by The City of Calgary over the first weekend of the new public health order measures going into effect, a number of corrective actions were taken. CPS served four people and made two arrests in relation to breaches of the Court of Queen’s Bench Order obtained by AHS. The order states that all COVID-19 public health measures must be followed for gatherings including protests, demonstrations, rallies and illegal indoor events. It also contains an enforcement clause that once served, gives police the powers to arrest organizers and promotors of events that do not meet the health orders.

Additionally, one bylaw violation ticket was issued during an inspection, as a result of a business operating in violation of a closure order that was issued by Alberta Health Services.

Protests and demonstrations

Some demonstrators have adjusted their approach to protests, limiting physical contact by using vehicles to demonstrate. While The City of Calgary is encouraged by some groups choosing an approach that adheres to current public health orders, they must also ensure all laws are adhered to. For anyone planning to engage in vehicle-based mobile rallies or protests, we urge organizers to stress the importance of obeying all traffic laws and to conduct themselves with public safety as a priority.

To limit traffic disruption, as well as the risk of collisions and other traffic safety issues, CPS asks organizers to cooperate with members of the Major Events and Emergency Management Section (MEEMS) to establish a route and traffic safety plan.

Inspections
City business licence inspectors, peace officers and partners from AHS, CPS, Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis and Occupational Health and Safety have formed a Public Health Compliance (PHC) Team to monitor compliance, address concerns and support measures that help protect Calgarians. This team will continue to conduct proactive inspections and respond to concerns jointly, to ensure businesses are following public health orders.

Any non-essential business found operating in contravention of the PHA could face multiple fines and the possibility of suspension or revocation of their business licence coupled with the charges.

The City of Calgary understands the impact and tough circumstances faced by a number of businesses that are closed or have altered their services, balanced with the critical need to enforce continued adherence to the public health orders. We would like to thank citizens and businesses for their continued adherence to public health orders and for playing an important role in the health and safety of all Calgarians.Where violations are suspected, Calgarians or businesses can submit questions, concerns or report complaints to Alberta Health Services online or by calling 1-833-415-9179, or to The City by contacting 311 or the CPS non-emergency line at 403-266-1234.

More information is available on Calgary.ca/covid19.

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The Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw came into effect August 1, 2020. On Monday, December 11, 2020 Calgary City Council extended the temporary bylaw through December 2021 and increased penalties for failure to wear a face covering and for repeat violations within a 12-month period.

On Monday May 10, 2021 Council will consider increasing the violation penalties through voting on a proposed bylaw amendment in the Combined Meeting of Council.

Enforcement of the temporary bylaw has resulted in:

•  391 violation tickets for failure to wear a face covering where required since August 1, 2020
  • Of those, 8 violation tickets have been issued since April 29, 2021.
• One ticket has been issued for failure to display prescribed signage in an entryway of a public indoor space. This is the only ticket issued of this nature since August 18, 2020.

The total number of tickets issued under the Public Health Act (PHA) since the State of Local Emergency was declared is:

• 213 violation tickets since November 24, 2020
  • Of those, none of the violation tickets were issued since April 29, 2021.

On May 04, 2021 the Province of Alberta announced new mandatory health restrictions under the Chief Medical Officer of Health, through the Public Health Act, to help stop the spread of COVID-19 and protect the health system.

These measures include new restrictions on outdoor social gatherings, schools, retail, restaurants, places of worship, personal and wellness services, outdoor sports and fitness, funerals, and post-secondary institutions.

Under the current direction of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, the enforcement of public health orders continues to be a priority for The City of Calgary’s enforcement and protective services.

“Aligned enforcement teams will focus on high profile incidents including protests, groups disrupting businesses in contravention of current laws, and places of worship found to be in non-compliance,” said Chief Bylaw Inspector Ryan Pleckaitis. “Community peace officers will partner with the Calgary Police Service (CPS) Public Safety Unit officers to increase enforcement at protests and other problematic events.”

“Though we have been taking enforcement action when it has been lawful and safe to do so, we have heard the voices of those who feel we can do more,” said CPS Chief Constable Mark Neufeld. “The enforcement framework announced earlier this week helps to formalize several critical partnerships that must be aligned if enforcement activities are to be successful. It will ensure stronger collaboration and more efficient use of the existing powers each agency has available to focus on repeat offenders – individuals, groups and businesses.”

City business licence inspectors, peace officers and partners from AHS, CPS, Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis and Occupational Health and Safety have formed a Public Health Compliance (PHC) Team to monitor compliance, address concerns and support measures that help protect Calgarians. This team will be conducting proactive inspections and responding to concerns jointly, to ensure businesses are following public health orders.

Any non-essential business found operating in contravention of the PHA could face multiple fines and the possibility of suspension or revocation of their business licence coupled with the charges.

The City of Calgary understands the impact and tough circumstances faced by a number of businesses that are closing or will have altered their services, balanced with the critical need to enforce continued adherence to the public health orders. We would like to thank citizens and businesses for their continued adherence to public health orders and for playing an important role in the health and safety of all Calgarians. Where violations are suspected, Calgarians or businesses can submit questions, concerns or report complaints to Alberta Health Services online or by calling 1-833-415-9179, or to The City by contacting 311 or the CPS non-emergency line at 403-266-1234.

More information is available on Calgary.ca/covid19.

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The Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw came into effect August 1, 2020. On Monday, December 11, 2020 Calgary City Council extended the temporary bylaw through December 2021 and increased penalties for failure to wear a face covering and for repeat violations within a 12-month period.

Enforcement of the temporary bylaw has resulted in:

•  383 violation tickets for failure to wear a face covering where required since August 1, 2020
  • Of those, 5 violation tickets have been issued since April 22, 2021.
• One ticket has been issued for failure to display prescribed signage in an entryway of a public indoor space. This is the only ticket issued of this nature since August 18, 2020.

The total number of tickets issued under the Public Health Act (PHA) since the State of Local Emergency was declared is:

• 213 violation tickets since November 24, 2020
  • Of those, 0 violation tickets were issued since April 22, 2021.

We understand the impact and tough circumstances faced by a number of businesses that are closed or have altered their services. The City of Calgary would like to thank citizens and businesses for their continued adherence to public health orders and for playing an important role in the health and safety of all Calgarians.

City business licence inspectors and partners from AHS, CPS, Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission, and Occupational Health and Safety monitor compliance, address concerns and support measures that help protect Calgarians as the Public Health Compliance (PHC) Team. This team conducts regular inspections. When responding to a complaint, a joint inspection is completed. AHS have the right to enter a property or to inspect under the public health orders. While AHS is the primary investigator, the role of community peace officers and CPS is to provide uniformed support to AHS and assist in enforcing their orders during inspections.

If they are jointly permitted to gain access and acquire information on the basis of a complaint, officers will assist in providing education and counsel to the business owner or organizer(s) on the current public health orders in order to seek compliance. Officers will enforce through the violation ticket process when compliance is not observed.

Any non-essential business found operating in contravention of the PHA could face multiple fines and the possibility of suspension or revocation of their business licence coupled with the charges.

We continue to prioritize enforcement at events that create the greatest risk to the public, including large protests or gatherings. The City of Calgary does not issue permits for protests and continues to discourage gatherings at the advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Alberta.

Under the current direction of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, the enforcement of public health orders continues as it has throughout the course of the pandemic. Once evidence is gathered and a violation ticket is issued, we rely on the prosecution of offenses to be handled by Alberta Justice, who determines the outcomes in regard to paying a fine or attending court. Tickets issued under the Public Health Act and the Chief Medical Officer of Health’s Public Health Orders are prosecuted by the Crown Prosecutor, who determines court attendance and fine payment.

Where violations are suspected, Calgarians or businesses can submit questions, concerns or report complaints to Alberta Health Services online or by calling 1-833-415-9179, or to The City by contacting 311 or the CPS non-emergency line at 403-266-1234.

More information is available on Calgary.ca/covid19.

-30-

The Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw came into effect August 1, 2020. On Monday, December 11, 2020 Calgary City Council extended the temporary bylaw through December 2021 and increased penalties for failure to wear a face covering and for repeat violations within a 12-month period.

Enforcement of the temporary bylaw has resulted in:

• 378 violation tickets for failure to wear a face covering where required since August 1, 2020
  • Of those, 11 violation tickets have been issued since April 15, 2021.
• One ticket has been issued for failure to display prescribed signage in an entryway of a public indoor space. This is the only ticket issued of this nature since August 18, 2020.

The total number of tickets issued under the Public Health Act (PHA) since the State of Local Emergency was declared is:

• 212 violation tickets since November 24, 2020
  • Of those, 6 violation tickets were issued since April 15, 2021.

We understand the impact and tough circumstances faced by a number of businesses that are closed or have altered their services. The City of Calgary would like to thank citizens and businesses for their continued adherence to public health orders and for playing an important role in the health and safety of all Calgarians.

City business licence inspectors and partners from AHS, CPS, Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission, and Occupational Health and Safety monitor compliance, address concerns and support measures that help protect Calgarians as the Public Health Compliance (PHC) Team. This team conducts regular inspections. When responding to a complaint, a joint inspection is completed. AHS have the right to enter a property or to inspect under the public health orders. While AHS is the primary investigator, the role of community peace officers and CPS is to provide uniformed support to AHS and assist in enforcing their orders during inspections.

If they are jointly permitted to gain access and acquire information on the basis of a complaint, officers will assist in providing education and counsel to the business owner or organizer(s) on the current public health orders in order to seek compliance. Officers will enforce through the violation ticket process when compliance is not observed.

Any non-essential business found operating in contravention of the PHA could face multiple fines and the possibility of suspension or revocation of their business licence coupled with the charges.

We continue to prioritize enforcement at events that create the greatest risk to the public, including large protests or gatherings. The City of Calgary does not issue permits for protests and continues to discourage gatherings at the advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Alberta.

Under the current direction of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, the enforcement of public health orders continues as it has throughout the course of the pandemic. Once evidence is gathered and a violation ticket is issued, we rely on the prosecution of offenses to be handled by Alberta Justice, who determines the outcomes in regard to paying a fine or attending court. Tickets issued under the Public Health Act and the Chief Medical Officer of Health’s Public Health Orders are prosecuted by the Crown Prosecutor, who determines court attendance and fine payment.

Where violations are suspected, Calgarians or businesses can submit questions, concerns or report complaints to Alberta Health Services online or by calling 1-833-415-9179, or to The City by contacting 311 or the CPS non-emergency line at 403-266-1234.

More information is available on Calgary.ca/covid19.

-30-

The Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw came into effect August 1, 2020. On Monday, December 11, 2020 Calgary City Council extended the temporary bylaw through December 2021 and increased penalties for failure to wear a face covering and for repeat violations within a 12-month period.

Enforcement of the temporary bylaw has resulted in:

• 367 violation tickets for failure to wear a face covering where required since August 1, 2020
  • Of those, 22 violation tickets have been issued since April 8, 2021.
• One ticket has been issued for failure to display prescribed signage in an entryway of a public indoor space. This is the only ticket issued of this nature since August 18, 2020.

The total number of tickets issued under the Public Health Act (PHA) since the State of Local Emergency was declared is:

• 206 violation tickets since November 24, 2020
  • None of those violation tickets were issued since April 8, 2021.

We understand the impact and tough circumstances faced by a number of businesses that are closed or have altered their services. The City of Calgary would like to thank citizens and businesses for their continued adherence to public health orders and for playing an important role in the health and safety of all Calgarians.

Under the current direction of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, enforcement of public health orders will continue as it has throughout the course of the pandemic.

City business licence inspectors and partners from AHS, CPS, Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission, and Occupational Health and Safety monitor compliance, address concerns and support measures that help protect Calgarians as the Public Health Compliance (PHC) Team. This team conducts regular inspections.

When responding to a complaint, a joint inspection is completed. AHS have the right to enter a property or to inspect under the public health orders. While AHS is the primary investigator, the role of community peace officers and CPS is to provide uniformed support to AHS and assist in enforcing their orders during inspections.

If they are jointly permitted to gain access and acquire information on the basis of a complaint, officers will assist in providing education and counsel to the business owner or organizer(s) on the current public health orders in order to seek compliance. Officers will enforce through the violation ticket process when compliance is not observed.

Any non-essential business found operating in contravention of the PHA could face multiple fines and the possibility of suspension or revocation of their business licence coupled with the charges. We continue to prioritize enforcement at events that create the greatest risk to the public, including large protests or gatherings. The City of Calgary does not issue permits for protests and continues to discourage gatherings at the advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Alberta.Where violations are suspected, Calgarians or businesses can submit questions, concerns or report complaints to Alberta Health Services online or by calling 1-833-415-9179, or to The City by contacting 311 or the CPS non-emergency line at 403-266-1234.

More information is available on Calgary.ca/covid19.

-30-

The Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw came into effect August 1, 2020. On Monday, December 11, 2020 Calgary City Council extended the temporary bylaw through December 2021 and increased penalties for failure to wear a face covering and for repeat violations within a 12-month period.

Enforcement of the temporary bylaw has resulted in:

• 345 violation tickets for failure to wear a face covering where required since August 1, 2020
  • Of those, 12 violation tickets have been issued since April 1, 2021.
• One ticket has been issued for failure to display prescribed signage in an entryway of a public indoor space. This is the only ticket issued of this nature since August 18, 2020.

The total number of tickets issued under the Public Health Act (PHA) since the State of Local Emergency was declared is:

• 206 violation tickets since November 24, 2020
  • Two of those violation tickets were issued since April 1, 2021.

We understand the impact and tough circumstances faced by a number of businesses that are closed or have altered their services once again. The City of Calgary would like to thank citizens and businesses for their continued adherence to public health orders and for playing an important role in the health and safety of all Calgarians.

Under the current direction of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, enforcement of public health orders will continue as it has throughout the course of the pandemic.

City business licence inspectors and partners from AHS, CPS, Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission, and Occupational Health and Safety monitor compliance, address concerns and support measures that help protect Calgarians as the Public Health Compliance (PHC) Team. This team conducts regular inspections.

When responding to a complaint, a joint inspection is completed. AHS have the right to enter a property or to inspect under the public health orders. While AHS is the primary investigator, the role of community peace officers and CPS is to provide uniformed support to AHS and assist in enforcing their orders during inspections.

If they are jointly permitted to gain access and acquire information on the basis of a complaint, officers will assist in providing education and counsel to the business owner or organizer(s) on the current public health orders in order to seek compliance. Officers will enforce through the violation ticket process when compliance is not observed.

Any non-essential business found operating in contravention of the PHA could face multiple fines and the possibility of suspension or revocation of their business licence coupled with the charges.

We continue to prioritize enforcement at events that create the greatest risk to the public, including large protests or gatherings. The City of Calgary does not issue permits for protests and continues to discourage gatherings at the advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Alberta. The City of Calgary is not approving any event permits at this time.

The City of Calgary asks that citizens do not take the perceived appearance of lack of enforcement at protests or gatherings as a reflection of our intent to ticket those who flout the law. There are a number current investigations underway for repeat offenders and summons pending.Where violations are suspected, Calgarians or businesses can submit questions, concerns or report complaints to Alberta Health Services online or by calling 1-833-415-9179, or to The City by contacting 311 or the CPS non-emergency line at 403-266-1234.

More information is available on Calgary.ca/covid19.

-30-

The Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw came into effect August 1, 2020. On Monday, December 11, 2020 Calgary City Council extended the temporary bylaw through December 2021 and increased penalties for failure to wear a face covering and for repeat violations within a 12-month period.

Enforcement of the temporary bylaw has resulted in:

• 333 violation tickets for failure to wear a face covering where required since August 1, 2020
  • Of those, 15 violation tickets have been issued March 25, 2021.
• One ticket has been issued for failure to display prescribed signage in an entryway of a public indoor space. This is the only ticket issued of this nature since August 18, 2020.

The total number of tickets issued under the Public Health Act (PHA) since the State of Local Emergency was declared is:

• 206 violation tickets since November 24, 2020
  • Two of those violation tickets were issued since March 25, 2021.

City business licence inspectors and partners from AHS, CPS, Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission, and Occupational Health and Safety have formed a Public Health Compliance (PHC) Team to monitor compliance, address concerns and support measures that help protect Calgarians.

This team is conducting regular inspections. Any non-essential business found operating in contravention of the PHA could face multiple fines and the possibility of suspension or revocation of their business licence coupled with the charges.

The City of Calgary would like to thank citizens and businesses for their continued adherence to public health orders and for playing an important role in the health of all Calgarians.

Where violations are suspected, Calgarians or businesses can submit questions, concerns or report complaints to Alberta Health Services online or by calling 1-833-415-9179, or to The City by contacting 311 or the CPS non-emergency line at 403-266-1234.

More information is available on Calgary.ca/covid19.

-30-

The Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw came into effect August 1, 2020. On Monday, December 11, 2020 Calgary City Council extended the temporary bylaw through December 2021 and increased penalties for failure to wear a face covering and for repeat violations within a 12-month period.

Enforcement of the temporary bylaw has resulted in:

• 318 violation tickets for failure to wear a face covering where required since August 1, 2020
  • Of those, 14 violation tickets have been issued March 18, 2021.
• One ticket has been issued for failure to display prescribed signage in an entryway of a public indoor space. This is the only ticket issued of this nature since August 18, 2020.

The total number of tickets issued under the Public Health Act (PHA) since the State of Local Emergency was declared is:

• 204 violation tickets since November 24, 2020
  • None of those violation tickets were issued since March 18, 2021.

City business licence inspectors and partners from AHS, CPS, Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission, and Occupational Health and Safety have formed a Public Health Compliance (PHC) Team to monitor compliance, address concerns and support measures that help protect Calgarians.

This team is conducting regular inspections. Any non-essential business found operating in contravention of the PHA could face multiple fines and the possibility of suspension or revocation of their business licence coupled with the charges.

The City of Calgary would like to thank citizens and businesses for their continued adherence to public health orders and for playing an important role in the health of all Calgarians.

Where violations are suspected, Calgarians or businesses can submit questions, concerns or report complaints to Alberta Health Services online or by calling 1-833-415-9179, or to The City by contacting 311 or the CPS non-emergency line at 403-266-1234.

More information is available on Calgary.ca/covid19.

-30-

The Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw came into effect August 1, 2020. On Monday, December 11, 2020 Calgary City Council extended the temporary bylaw through December 2021 and increased penalties for failure to wear a face covering and for repeat violations within a 12-month period.

Enforcement of the temporary bylaw has resulted in:

• 160 violation tickets for failure to wear a face covering where required since August 1, 2020
  • Of those, 20 violation tickets have been issued since January 28, 2021.
• One ticket has been issued for failure to display prescribed signage in an entryway of a public indoor space. This is the only ticket issued of this nature since August 1, 2020.

The total number of tickets issued under the Public Health Act (PHA) since the State of Local Emergency was declared is:

• 182 violation tickets since November 24, 2020
  • 9 of those violation tickets were issued since January 28, 2021

City business licence inspectors and partners from AHS, CPS, Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission, and Occupational Health and Safety have formed a Public Health Compliance (PHC) Team to monitor compliance, address concerns and support measures that help protect Calgarians.

This team is conducting regular inspections. Any non-essential business found operating in contravention of the PHA could face multiple fines and the possibility of suspension or revocation of their business licence coupled with the charges.

The City of Calgary would like to thank citizens and businesses for their continued adherence to public health orders and for playing an important role in the health of all Calgarians. The City’s top priority remains the health and safety of Calgarians.

Where violations are suspected, Calgarians or businesses can submit questions, concerns or report complaints to Alberta Health Services online or by calling 1-833-415-9179, or to The City by contacting 311 or the CPS non-emergency line at 403-266-1234.

More information is available on Calgary.ca/covid19.

-30-

The Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw came into effect August 1, 2020. On Monday, December 11 Calgary City Council extended the temporary bylaw through December 2021 and increased penalties for failure to wear a face covering and for repeat violations within a 12-month period.

Enforcement of the temporary bylaw has resulted in:

• 134 violation tickets for failure to wear a face covering where required since August 1, 2020
  • Of those, 21 violation tickets have been issued since January 14, 2021.
• One ticket has been issued for failure to display prescribed signage in an entryway of a public indoor space. This is the only ticket issued of this nature since August 1, 2020.

The total number of tickets issued under the Public Health Act (PHA) since the State of Local Emergency was declared is:

• 167 violation tickets since November 24, 2020
  • Violation tickets issued since January 14, 2021 were reported as outcomes of investigations on January 7, 2021, while 30 additional concerns are currently under investigation.

The increase in violation tickets for failure to wear a face covering where required is due to non-compliance on transit vehicles.

City business licence inspectors and partners from AHS, CPS, Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission, and Occupational Health and Safety have formed a Public Health Compliance (PHC) Team to monitor compliance, address concerns and support measures that help protect Calgarians.

This team is conducting regular inspections. Any non-essential business found operating in contravention of the PHA could face multiple fines and the possibility of suspension or revocation of their business licence coupled with the charges.

The City of Calgary’s top priority remains the health and safety of Calgarians.

Where violations are suspected, Calgarians or businesses can submit questions, concerns or report complaints to Alberta Health Services online or by calling 1-833-415-9179, or to The City by contacting 311 or the CPS non-emergency line at 403-266-1234.

More information is available on Calgary.ca/covid19.

-30-

The Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw came into effect August 1, 2020. On Monday, December 11 Calgary City Council extended the temporary bylaw through December 2021 and increased penalties for failure to wear a face covering and for repeat violations within a 12-month period.

Enforcement of the temporary bylaw has resulted in:

• 98 violation tickets for failure to wear a face covering where required since August 1, 2020
  • Of those, 25 violation tickets have been issued since December 30, 2020.
• One ticket has been issued for failure to display prescribed signage in an entryway of a public indoor space. This is the only ticket issued of this nature since August 1, 2020.

The total number of tickets issued under the Public Health Act (PHA) since the State of Local Emergency was declared is:

• 111 violation tickets since November 24, 2020
  • 19 of those violation tickets were issued since December 30, 2020.

The City of Calgary’s top priority remains the health and safety of Calgarians.

The City of Calgary would like to remind Calgarians that while using popular outdoor parks and skating locations everyone must follow the Provincial Health Orders. Maintain two metres of distance from anyone outside of your household and wear a face covering if distancing is not possible. Face coverings or masks are now recommended when tying skates in bench areas or using fire pits.

City business licence inspectors and partners from AHS, CPS, Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission, and Occupational Health and Safety have formed a Public Health Compliance Team to monitor compliance, address concerns and support measures that help protect Calgarians.

This team is conducting regular inspections. Any non-essential business found operating in contravention of the PHA could face multiple fines and the possibility of suspension or revocation of their business licence coupled with the charges.

Where violations are suspected, Calgarians or businesses can submit questions, concerns or report complaints to Alberta Health Services online or by calling 1-833-415-9179, or to The City by contacting 311 or the CPS non-emergency line at 403-266-1234.

More information is available on Calgary.ca/covid19.

-30-

The Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw came into effect August 1, 2020. On Monday, December 11 Calgary City Council extended the temporary bylaw through December 2021 and increased penalties for failure to wear a face covering and repeat violations within a 12-month period.

Enforcement of the temporary bylaw has resulted in:

• 67 violation tickets for failure to wear a face covering where required since August 1, 2020
  • Of those, 6 violation tickets have been issued since December 23, 2020
• One ticket has been issued for failure to display prescribed signage in an entryway of a public indoor space. This is the only ticket issued of this nature since August 1, 2020

The total number of tickets issued under the Public Health Act (PHA) since the State of Local Emergency was declared is:

• 69 violation tickets since November 24, 2020
  • 22 of those violation tickets were issued since December 23, 2020

Calgary police and peace officers actively patrolled and monitored crowd situations at shopping malls in Calgary throughout the Boxing Day weekend. Overall, compliance was high with the capacity restrictions and safety protocols implemented by mall management. Officers also responded to citizen concerns over the holidays and the vast majority of Calgarians were viewed to be complying with the restrictions and enforcement was not required in most cases.

The City of Calgary’s top priority remains the health and safety of Calgarians and the current limits are in place to ensure everyone can have an enjoyable and safe outdoor experience.“Park spaces and ice rinks were monitored in locations where distancing at entry points of these locations can be a concern,” said Susan Wall, Duty Inspector, Calgary Community Standards. “We are observing that with the current nice weather, busy periods of use on popular ice rinks is typically between 1 to 5 p.m. and in an effort to enhance safety, we would like to ask Calgarians to consider going at alternate times so that physical distancing can be maintained.”

A popular Calgary skating location, Bowness Lagoon, is not a skating rink in the traditional sense as it is a much larger, outdoor Parks area that is used for various recreational purposes including skating. All participants at Bowness Park must follow the Provincial Health Orders and maintain 2 metres from anyone outside of their household and wear a face covering if distancing is not possible.

“Due to safety concerns, face coverings or masks will now be a recommended when tying skates in bench areas or using fire pits, and remain a requirement when you cannot maintain 2 metres from anyone outside of your household,” says Justin Brown, Zone Superintendent, Calgary Parks. “We ask that everyone spread out while putting on their skates and that they do so as quickly as possible, so others may use the benches and avoid crowding.”

Over the coming week, additional signage will be put up in City of Calgary skating areas to help guide Calgarians on these new measures.

When at skating rinks or areas that are at capacity, skaters must wait in line and skating times may be limited.

The City of Calgary requires Calgarians to stay off any and all frozen storm ponds. Even in winter, water levels and flows change rapidly, making skating or other activities extremely dangerous and strictly prohibited.

The City reminds Calgarians that if you arrive at any outdoor location and it appears to be crowded, please come back at a quieter time or go to a different outdoor space.

Calgarians or businesses can submit questions, concerns or report complaints to Alberta Health Services online or by calling 1-833-415-9179, or to The City by contacting 311, or the CPS non-emergency at 403-266-1234 where violations are suspected.

More information is available on Calgary.ca/covid19.

-30-

The Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw came into effect August 1, 2020. On Monday, December 11 Calgary City Council extended the temporary bylaw through December 2021 and increased penalties for failure to wear a face covering and repeat violations within a 12-month period.

Enforcement of the temporary bylaw has resulted in:

• 40 violation tickets for failure to wear a face covering where required since August 1
  • Of those, 8 violation tickets have been issued since December 9
• One ticket has been issued for failure to display prescribed signage in an entryway of a public indoor space. This is the only ticket issued of this nature since August 1.

The total number of tickets issued under the Public Health Act (PHA) since the State of Local Emergency was declared is:

• 25 violation tickets since November 25, 2020
  • 11 of those violation tickets were issued since December 9, 2020

Evidence connected to a religious gathering held on December 6, 2020 was reviewed and two tickets were issued to the church under the PHA, along with one ticket under the Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw for failure to display prescribed signage.

Over the last week three PHA tickets were issued to protesters. Two additional related tickets will be served, along with other bylaw-related infraction tickets stemming from events last weekend. The City of Calgary will continue to investigate and actively enforce at planned events and protests that create the greatest risk to the public in violation of the PHA.

City business licence inspectors and partners from Alberta Health Services, CPS, Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission and Occupational Health and Safety have formed a Public Health Compliance Team (PHCT) to monitor compliance, address concerns and support measures that help protect Calgarians.

The PHCT will conduct weekly inspections for the foreseeable future and any non-essential business found operating in contravention of the PHA could face multiple fines and the possibility of suspension or revocation of their business licence coupled with the charges.

Over the last week the team performed proactive business inspections and responded to concerns related to COVID-19. Four locations were found not adhering to public health orders. Three of the locations were issued warnings and one location was issued a violation ticket under the PHA.

Under updated public health orders, the capacity of retail and public indoor spaces reduced to 15 per cent of fire code occupancy on Sunday, December 13, 2020.

“The vast majority of businesses are adhering to the Public Health Act and we are grateful to the business community for doing their part to follow restrictions and enhance the safety of their patrons,” says Ryan Pleckaitis, Chief Bylaw Officer, Calgary Community Standards. “We have heard some concerns about overcrowding in larger retail facilities, such as shopping malls, and want to reassure Calgarians that we review all concerns in a timely manner, and will continue to respond to capacity issues heard via 311.”

Calgarians or businesses can submit questions, concerns or report complaints to Alberta Health Services online or by calling 1-833-415-9179, or to The City by contacting 311 or the CPS non-emergency at 403-266-1234 where violations are suspected.

More information is available on Calgary.ca/covid19.

-30-

“The objectives of the bylaw are to increase usage of face coverings to help lower transmissions of the virus and to keep Calgary’s economy open,” says Kay Choi, Manager, Strategic Services, Calgary Community Standards. “Early indications are that the Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw is contributing to those intended objectives.”

Since the bylaw went into effect there has been a significant increase in usage of face coverings in public premises and public vehicles. A Citizen Perspectives COVID-19 snapshot survey of 500 Calgarians was conducted beginning August 18, 2020, where 89 per cent of respondents reported always wearing a face covering in public and confined spaces. This is a marked improvement compared to the 34 per cent who reported always doing so in the same survey prior to the temporary bylaw coming into effect. The survey also indicates that the majority of Calgarians (88 per cent) support the Temporary Face Coverings Bylaw.

“Ongoing monitoring and reporting to Council ensures transparency, the ability to address unforeseen circumstances, and effectiveness of the bylaw,” says Choi. “It is important for Calgarians to understand when the bylaw may be repealed. Determining a specific date or matrix target does not allow the flexibility that is required to respond to local changing priorities, the evolving nature of the virus, or new evidence with regard to face coverings.”

Administration anticipates the bylaw would most likely be repealed under one or more of the following three scenarios:

• Local metrics, including transmission rates (reproductive value), infections, hospitalizations, patients in intensive care, and deaths are at a sufficiently low level that medical experts agree that face coverings are no longer a recommended tool in mitigating the spread of the virus.

• A safe and effective vaccine has seen sufficient local levels of uptake, or a safe and effective treatment has been identified, such that medical experts agree that face coverings are no longer recommended in in mitigating the spread of the virus.

• Medical experts, including Alberta Health Services, the Public Health Agency of Canada, and the World Health Organization retract their messaging on the use of face coverings, based on evidence, in mitigating the spread of COVID-19.

In the event there is a sudden reversal in the medical advice that face coverings are no longer beneficial, Administration would return to the next possible Council meeting to have the bylaw repealed.

On July 21, 2020 Council passed the Temporary COVID-19 Face Coverings Bylaw based on recommendations from the Chief Medical Officer of Health for Alberta, Chief Public Health Officer for Canada and the World Health Organization to wear face coverings to limit the spread of COVID-19, where physical distancing cannot be maintained. On August 24, 2020 Administration updated Council on the implementation of the temporary face coverings bylaw and the potential for schools to be regulated under the bylaw.

Calgary Community Standards has received over 600 reports of concerns through 311 related to people not wearing face coverings in a public place or businesses not displaying signage. Two tickets for failure to wear a face covering where required have been issued after attempts to gain compliance through education were unsuccessful.

More information on the Face Coverings Bylaw is available on Calgary.ca/covid19.

-30-

Conversion therapy has been deemed a harmful and unscientific practice. The bylaw prohibits the business practice of conversion therapy, which includes a fine for those advertising or offering conversion therapy services within Calgary.

All levels of government have a role to play in protecting Calgarians from the harms associated with this type of practice. Calgary City Council may pass bylaws for municipal purposes respecting the safety, health and welfare of people. The City of Calgary has the authority to pass bylaws concerning businesses, ensuring citizens’ expectations for safe and ethical business practices are met.

“This regulation is aimed at ensuring the safety of Calgarians,” says Stacey McManaman, Business Strategist with The City of Calgary. “The City of Calgary is developing tools that can be used as a reference to this business prohibition, that will be made available for public education purposes,” says McManaman.

The federal government has also taken steps to ban the practice. The Federal Minister of Justice has been instructed by the Prime Minister’s Office to amend the Criminal Code to ban the practice of conversion therapy and take other steps required with the provinces and territories to end conversion therapy in Canada. In March 2020 the Federal Government introduced legislation to criminalize conversion therapy-related conduct in Canada. The legislation proposes five new conversion therapy related, Criminal Code offenses.

“It is important to note, that the bylaw will not apply to those businesses that provide support services for a person’s social, medical or legal gender transition; or to a person’s non-judgmental exploration and acceptance of their identity or development,” says McManaman.

In January 2020 a Notice of Motion sponsored by Councillors Evan Woolley, Druh Farrell, Gian-Carlo Carra, Jyoti Gondek, Peter Demong and Mayor Naheed Nenshi, was passed by City Council unanimously. The City of Calgary Administration was directed to develop a bylaw that, if approved by Council, would prohibit the engagement in or operation of a business that conducts “conversion therapy”.

Administration was asked to return to the Standing Policy Committee (SPC) on Community and Protective Services in May 2020 with a proposed bylaw outlining definitions of the business and enforcement practices. Council committee unanimously voted the proposed bylaw through to the Combined Meeting of Council on May 25, 2020.

Calgary is the seventh municipality in Alberta to have passed a bylaw prohibiting the practice and promotion of conversion therapy, following Edmonton, St. Albert, Strathcona County, Wood Buffalo, Rocky Mountain House, and Spruce Grove.

The penalty for offence under this bylaw is a $10,000 fine for any person found to be contravening any provision of the bylaw.

The bylaw will operate on a complaint basis – individuals or businesses known or suspected to be engaging in this process can be reported by calling 311. Every call will be investigated.

More information will be made available on Calgary.ca.

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The report to Council recommended amendments to the Business Licence Bylaw to include a two-tiered licence category for short term rental operators; and amendments to the Lodging House definition and regulations. The City is working toward a February implementation date.

The bylaw will require all short term rental operators in Calgary to apply for a licence. Those who rent one to four rooms will apply for the Tier 1 licence at a cost of $100. Operators renting five or more rooms will apply for the Tier 2 licence at a cost of $191 plus the cost of a fire safety inspection at $104. As well, Lodging House operators will be accountable for record keeping as a condition of their licence.

“These regulations are all aimed at ensuring safety for guests and create transparency between guests, operators and the community,” says Cody Weiss, Business Strategist with The City of Calgary. “Our goal is to create a clear understanding of what the bylaw outlines given that regulation is new. So, we are developing a policy document that will clarify for operators their requirements to comply with the new regulation. Our goal over the next couple of months is to get citizens comfortable with what a regulated environment will be like.”

The regulations are in line with the Alberta Safety Codes Act Fire Code Regulations, and the requirements for record keeping are similar to other business licensing categories. The regulations also limit the number of people who can stay in a room intended for sleeping and help ensure rooms meet egress standards to ensure life safety and limit overcrowding.

“We expect the new business licence for short term rental operators will be available online on February 1, 2020. We’re designing this to be an easy, quick application process, especially for Tier 1 licences that will account for over 90 per cent of applicants.” says Weiss.

As part of their business friendly approach to the regulations, a Tier 1 licence can be approved in as little as 24 hours. The City is also developing an operator’s guide and a guest guide that can be downloadable from The City’s web site says Weiss.

Anyone who has a complaint about a short term rental or lodging house are encouraged to call 311. Operators who want the latest information are encouraged to visit Calgary.ca/shorttermrentals where they can also sign up for licensing email updates.

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Business Strategist Lindsay Luhnau says the recommendations were developed after consultation with multiple industry stakeholders and different business areas of City Administration.

“Regulating areas of the sharing economy can be contentious so Administration developed recommendations with the customer in mind. We wanted to make sure the health and safety of guests who stay in short term rentals and the general public are protected, while also ensuring the rules do not deter people from entering the market,” says Luhnau.

On December 5, the scoping report was presented to the committee on Community and Protective Services where a number of stakeholders, including STR operators, Airbnb, hotel operators, and the Calgary Hotel Association voiced their opinions to Council. Luhnau says the majority of those presenting supported the scoping report recommendations. By creating a regulatory structure, The City will improve clarity for STR operators while also crating equity across the industry. Committee also opted to include two additional recommendations in the report: continued advocacy urging the government of Alberta to improve the Destination Marketing Fee administration for better transparency and accountability; and ensure the implementation is resourced from the newly approved four-year One Calgary budget.

“While several short term rental operators expressed concerns over red tape, we are confident the path forward will not put an undue burden on STR operators. As this business category continues to grow and evolve, these regulatory measures will give operators greater clarity on what they have to have in place and how they can and cannot operate,” says Luhnau.

In early 2019, The City will begin developing the necessary amendments to the Business Licence Bylaw, as well as the processes for applying for and renewing the new Tourism Accommodation Business Licence. This work is expected to be completed in mid-2019. The education campaign will help tourism accommodation operators better understand how they fit into the Calgary market and share information with members of the public on how to direct concerns.

For more information on City business licensing, visit Calgary.ca/mybusiness.

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The guide advises residents, business owners and service providers of their rights and responsibilities as members of their community and includes general information about bylaws pertaining to properties. Examples of summer related topics covered in the guide include trees and shrubs infringing on streets and alleys, untidy properties, vehicle parking, property development, decks, fences, grass and weeds.

Whether users of the guide are new to the city, long-term Calgarians, homeowners or tenants looking for more information about responsibilities within Calgary neighbourhoods, this quick reference gets everyone started. It includes links to frequently referenced bylaws which set a minimum standard for neighbourhoods and help ensure that all Calgarians live in safe, clean and healthy communities.

Information related to the following bylaws is included in the guide:

• Community Standards Bylaw

• Business Licensing Bylaw

• Calgary Traffic Bylaw

• Drainage Bylaw

• Land Use Bylaw

• Lot Grading Bylaw

• Parks and Pathways Bylaw

• Public Behaviour Bylaw

• Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw

• Streets Bylaw

• Temporary Signs on Highways Bylaw

• Tree Protection Bylaw

• Waste and Recycling Bylaw

• Wastewater Bylaw

• Water Utility Bylaw

While informal communication with neighbours is a simple way of addressing neighbourhood concerns, in situations where this is not a viable option, Calgarians can call 3-1-1 to make an inquiry or to file a complaint for investigation.

To access the Good Neighbour Practices Reference Guide visit Calgary.ca/goodneighbour.

Held annually on the third Saturday of June, Neighbour Day is an opportunity for neighbours to come together and celebrate our strong community spirit in Calgary. In past years, Calgarians have celebrated in the form of front yard BBQs, community cleanups, picnics, garden parties and potlucks.

Mayor Nenshi spoke today to encourage Calgarians to participate and organize an event.

“At its core, Neighbour Day is about celebrating the strength and resilience of our community. Every time we come together—whether to build something for everyone or enjoy the company of neighbours and new friends--we’re making our communities even stronger,” said Mayor Nenshi. “It can be as simple as having tea in the common area of your apartment building, or as large as a community-wide games day in one of our many amazing parks.”

“Neighbour Day is a great opportunity for Calgarians to celebrate the unique qualities that make their neighbourhood strong and inspiring,” said Aaron Taylor, Neighbour Day 2018 organizer. “People are impacted by where they live. When a neighbourhood is thriving, it can positively affect the quality of life for everyone who lives there.”

For those wishing to host an event that requires a permit, The City is waiving its fees for approved block party and greenspace bookings on Neighbour Day. The deadline to submit permit applications for Neighbour Day is Friday, May 25, 2018.

This year, Calgarians will have the opportunity to invite Mayor Nenshi, their local Councillor, members of the Calgary Police Service, the Calgary Fire Department, Calgary Community Standards Peace Officers and 9-1-1 Communications Officers to their Neighbour Day event. An official invitation request can be submitted at Calgary.ca/NeighbourDay.

To sign-up for your Neighbour Day event and access celebration ideas, an event planning kit, information about permits, templates and other logistical considerations, visit Calgary.ca/NeighbourDay.

Neighbour Day was first held in June 2014 to celebrate the incredible outpouring of support and generosity neighbours demonstrated after the 2013 floods. It has since evolved into an annual celebration of Calgary’s strong and caring communities.

To show fellow Calgarians how you spent Neighbour Day, use #yycneighbourday.

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“The Safety Expo is one of the most important events The City hosts because it teaches students about staying safe inside and outside of the home,” said Mayor Nenshi. “I want to thank my colleagues at The City of Calgary for hosting another successful Safety Expo.”

The Safety Expo remains free for students and exhibitors. This is thanks to The City’s partnerships with community, not-for-profit and corporate organizations who provide both financial and in-kind contributions. Hundreds of contributors will participate in the event, including volunteers, exhibitors, and presenters.

“In the last 15 years, about 50,000 Calgary students have been able to learn valuable lessons on how to recognize safety hazards,” says Councillor Diane Colley-Urquhart, Honourary Chair of the Safety Expo. “The City is pleased to be able to bring this safety education to so many students.”

Safety Expo is led by Calgary Community Standards as part of The City’s commitment to public safety and supports Council’s vision for inspiring safe neighbourhoods with the goal of encouraging citizens to share in the responsibility for individual and community safety.

For more information on Safety Expo, visit please visit the Safety Expo website or follow #yycsafe on social media.

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Earlier this year, The City held a selection process for the release of 222 new taxi plates. Following the selection process, Administration became aware of issues with the process. Accordingly, an independent and impartial third party was asked to conduct a review and to develop a fair solution for any process issues.

KPMG has now concluded this review and its findings are:

1. Five applicants were inadvertently excluded from participating in the selection process when their ballot cards were excluded from the selection drum.
2. LTS intended to exclude from the draw any applicant who had received and still maintained a taxi plate as a result of the 2014 or 2015 selection process. However, one applicant who had received a taxi plate through one of those processes was inadvertently included in the draw. In regard to transfers, it should be noted that any applicant who had received and still maintained a taxi plate as a result of a transfer of plates between 2014 and 2017 was included in the draw. LTS’ intention was that if that applicant’s name was drawn, the applicant would be deemed ineligible to receive a plate during LTS’ eligibility review.
3. Two applicants were inadvertently allowed to submit applications for the 2017 plate selection process despite having already applied in 2014. Since applicants who did not receive a plate in earlier plate selection processes were automatically entered into the 2017 selection process, the two who reapplied in 2017 had two ballots inadvertently entered into the selection drum.

The review found no evidence that would suggest the process issues were the result of malicious intent by any City staff member to purposely exclude applicants from the process, give any individual a greater opportunity for selection, or otherwise impair the fairness of the selection process in general. The process issues were the result of human error.

Richard Hinse, Acting Director of Calgary Community Standards said: “The City is committed to a fair selection process for all applicants. We sincerely apologize for the errors caused by the 2017 selection process and thank everyone for their patience.

“Once we became aware of issues with the process, we had a responsibility to ensure that a review was put in place that was impartial, independent and thorough. While the review was completed as quickly as possible, the review itself was complex and time consuming.

“The City is committed to a fair selection process for all applicants. Administration will follow Council’s direction to adopt KPMG’s recommendation to issue taxi plates to eligible applicants selected on 2017 January 24, and to secure the services of a third party to perform a supplemental selection to give the five excluded applicants the opportunity to receive a plate, or be placed on the contingency list. In addition, supplemental draws to expand the current contingency list will be performed by a third party, and all applicants not selected for a taxi plate or the contingency list in January’s draw will be included in these supplemental draws.

“Now that KPMG has come back to us with their recommendations and Council has adopted them, I am confident we can move quickly to resolve the situation and to release the plates.”

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In 2016, the Calgary Fire Department performed 62 rescues on Calgary’s waterways. Swift water rescues, in particular, increased 25 per cent from 2015.

Who: Acting Fire Chief Ken Uzeloc
          Calgary Police Service Staff Sergeant Clare Smart
          Calgary Community Standards Inspector Susan Wall
          Junior Fire Chief Oliver Hamilton

What: Partners in Water Safety host water recreation season kickoff and Bow River tour

When: Thurs., May 18, 2017

Time: Noon

Where: Bow River waterfront behind Eau Claire Station 6 (weather permitting), 360 8 Street SW
In the event of rain, the availability will be held inside Station 6

Spokespeople will be available for interview following the introductory address.

Photo Opportunities:

• Partners in Water Safety will perform life jacket and water safety equipment demonstrations
• Junior Fire Chief Oliver Hamilton will provide safety tips for kids on the water
• CFD and CPS will host media on their watercrafts for a tour of nearby hazards on the Bow River

For more information about water safety, visit calgary.ca/watersafety.