Definition of an Unsightly Property

Properties within the City of Surrey that have the appearance of being unkempt or neglected may be considered "unsightly". Such properties usually have an amount of garbage or debris on the lot and might have a general accumulation of filth, graffiti, discarded materials or rubbish.

Compliance & Enforcement Procedures

Once a complaint is received, the City of Surrey will order an inspection by one of its By-law Enforcement Officers. If the Officer determines the property falls within the definition of unsightly, the by-law is explained to the property owner, as well as what must be done to clean-up the property. A deadline for the clean-up is set by the By-law Enforcement Officer after the property owner has been notified of the problem.

If sufficient clean-up of the property has not taken place after the deadline has lapsed, the City may have the property cleaned up at the expense of the property owner. The cost of the clean-up will form a part of the property taxes of the property.