Natural Garden Exemption -

699 Markham Street (Midtown)

The Toronto Community Council recommends that City Council grant an exemption under Municipal Code, Chapter 202, Section 202-2D to cancel the served notice and to allow a natural garden to remain at 699 Markham Street.

The Toronto Community Council submits the following report (October 5, 1998) from the Commissioner, Urban Planning and Development Services:

Purpose:

To provide information to Toronto Community Council regarding a request for a natural garden exemption for 699 Markham Street in Ward 23, received in response to a notice served requiring that long grass and weeds be cut.

Source of Funds:

Not applicable.

Recommendations:

(1)That City Council grant an exemption under Municipal Code, Chapter 202, Section 202-2D to cancel the served notice and to allow a natural garden to remain at 699 Markham Street;

OR

(2)That City Council confirm the served notice and direct that a second notice be given under Municipal Code, Chapter 202, Section 202-2D requiring the cutting of grass and weeds, as prescribed in the regulations.

Council Reference/Background/History:

Toronto Municipal Code, Chapter 202 regulates Atall grass and weeds@, requiring same to be cut upon receipt of a served notice. This regulation also provides for an exemption which may be requested on receipt of such a notice, on the basis that the lands form a natural garden. This exemption is required under the regulation to be reported on for decision by City Council. Background information is set out in this report to assist Council.

Comments and/or Discussion and/or Justification:

On September 10th, 1998 a notice was served in reference to the property known as 699 Markham Street in Ward 23 to require that grass and weeds be cut, in accordance with Toronto Municipal Code, Chapter 202. A letter was received, dated September 10th, 1998, from the occupant of the subject property requesting exemption from grass and weed cutting requirements on the basis that the property contains a natural garden.

On September 29th, 1998, Parks staff reported that at the front of the property an eclectic mix of native and hybrid perennials had been planted, and at the rear there was a small arboretum of trees planted along a walkway, both of which are in keeping with a natural area. No noxious weeds were observed. This information is included to assist Council in rendering their decision.

Conclusions:

This report is submitted for information to Council in deciding whether or not to exempt the subject lands as a natural garden.

Contact Name:

Judi McBurney

Technical Advisor, Urban Planning and Development

392-7963