Mandatory Downspout Disconnection
Three-phase rollout
Mandatory downspout disconnection comes into effect in three phases over five years.
See the map to find out when your property's downspouts need to be disconnected. You can also view the Mandatory Downspout Disconnection Rollout map (PDF) and find out which ward you live in on the City of Toronto wards map (PDF).
Exemptions
In cases where it may not be technically feasible to disconnect your downspout or where disconnection would create a hazardous condition, you can apply to the City for an exemption.
Financial assistance
Financial assistance is available to reimburse the costs of labour and/or materials for performing downspout disconnection work, up to a maximum of $500, for low-income seniors or low-income persons with a disability. To qualify, you must:
- Own a residential property within the City of Toronto
- Have a combined household income of $50,000 or less
- Be 65 years of age or older
- OR be 60-64 years of age and receiving Guaranteed Income Supplement under Old Age Security Act; if widowed, be receiving the Spouse's Allowance under Old Age Security
- OR be 50 years of age or older and be receive either a pension or a pension annuity resulting from a pension plan under the Income Tax Act (Canada)
- OR be a person with a disability and be receiving disability benefits
Review the information on eligibility and documents required prior to submitting an application.
Enforcement
Property owners who fail to comply with the requirements of the bylaw may face an Order to Comply. If non-compliance continues, the City may issue warning notices followed by enforcement, under which a property owner could be subject to a fine.