Vacant or Hazardous Buildings
Sets requirements for securing and maintaining vacant buildings and addresses buildings that are hazardous, to protect public safety and neighbouring properties.
This chapter covers a few related topics. The key practical requirements are summarized below in plain English; review the official bylaw for full details.
Plain-English Overview
Chapter 632 addresses vacant buildings and hazardous property to protect public safety and neighbouring properties. It requires vacant buildings to be secured and maintained, hazardous property to be fenced, and dangerous trees or branches to be removed.
Who it applies to: Owners of vacant or hazardous buildings in Toronto.
Key Requirements
Secure and maintain vacant buildings
Chapter 632, § 632-3 (Vacant buildings)Vacant buildings must be secured against unauthorized entry and kept maintained so they don't become unsafe or attract problems.
Compliance looks like
Boarding/securing all openings and maintaining an empty building.
May be a concern
An open, unsecured vacant house anyone can enter.
Fence hazardous property
Chapter 632, § 632-4 (Fencing of hazardous property)Property that is hazardous must be fenced to keep people away from the danger.
Compliance looks like
Fencing off an excavation or unsafe structure.
May be a concern
An open hazard with no barrier near a sidewalk.
Remove dangerous trees or branches
Chapter 632, § 632-5 (Removal of dangerous trees or branches)Dangerous trees or branches that pose a risk must be removed.
Compliance looks like
Removing a dead, leaning tree before it falls.
May be a concern
A clearly hazardous tree left to threaten people or property.
Practical Compliance Guide
- 1
Secure empty buildings
If you own a vacant building, secure all entry points and keep it maintained.
- 2
Barrier off hazards
Fence or barrier any hazardous condition so the public is protected.
- 3
Report unsafe vacant property
If a vacant building is open and unsafe, report the address to the City.
Common Questions
There's an abandoned house on my street — who do I contact?
Vacant buildings must be secured and maintained. An open, unsafe vacant building can be reported to the City.
Reference: § 632-3
Submit a 311 request with the address and a photo.
A vacant building is open and unsafe — is that reportable?
Yes — if a vacant building isn't secured against entry, it may not meet this chapter's requirements.
Reference: § 632-3
Report it to 311; note if it appears open or unsecured.
What does the City require owners of empty buildings to do?
Generally, to secure the building against entry and keep it maintained; hazardous conditions must also be addressed.
Reference: §§ 632-3, 632-4
Confirm specific obligations in the official Chapter 632.
What This Chapter Generally Covers
- Securing vacant buildings against entry
- Maintenance obligations for vacant property
- Addressing hazardous building conditions
- Boarding and registration requirements
Common Examples
- Open, unsecured vacant building
- Hazardous structure at risk of collapse
- Vacant property attracting pests or dumping
Related Topics
This page summarizes Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 632, Property, Vacant or Hazardous in plain language for general reference only — it is not legal advice. Always confirm the exact requirement, wording, and any exemptions in the official chapter or with the City of Toronto.
Last reviewed: 2026-06-14
Information on this page is summarized for general reference only and is not legal advice. Always confirm the official requirement using the City of Toronto Municipal Code or other official City sources.