News

Licensing, by-laws approved to better address short-term rental concerns

The City is beefing up its regulatory framework when it comes to addressing concerns with short-term rental (STR) operations in St. Catharines.

On Monday night, City Council approved a Licensing and Administrative Monetary Penalty System (AMPS) for STRs, such as those operated through online portals like AirBnB and VRBO. These new tools compliment amendments made to the City’s Zoning By-law late in 2020 that redefined STRs as home-based businesses. The amendments, combined with licensing and AMPS,...

Shoreline protection efforts continue in 2021

A move to protect shorelines from the impacts of climate change will deliver a boost for local fish habitats as well.

With climate change driving increasingly high Lake Ontario levels, and erosion posing an ever-present risk to lakefront properties and infrastructure, the City is moving forward to mitigate impacts on a stretch of the waterfront.

Specifically, the City has approved a contractor for 2021 shoreline protection along a stretch of Shore Boulevard. The roughly $1.7 million project will see...

St. Catharines Fire Services reminds residents fires prohibited under Open-Air Burning By-law

As the weather warms residents are heading out into the backyard for some much-needed fresh air, but, while they enjoy the open air, they should remember a fire must not be added to the mix.

Getting outdoors to spend time with family and other household members is a great way to stay healthy and active. However, St. Catharines Fires Services (SCFS) would like to remind residents that a backyard fire can be both a fire safety risk and a nuisance to neighbours. Outdoor fires are not permitted under...

St. Catharines latest Community Improvement Plan launched

The City of St. Catharines is stimulating investment in affordable housing, commercial redevelopment, heritage preservation, brownfield remediation and more, through its latest Community Improvement Plan.

The plan, known as 2020CIP, is designed to encourage investment in the city by providing incentives to the private sector.

“These latest programs take a proactive approach to revitalizing, reshaping and positioning our city as an attractive place to live and do business,” said Senior Planner Bruce...