Check out our frequently asked questions to help you find the services you're looking for. We've organized this information by department and service to make it easier for you to search:
- Animal Control
- Building Services
- Cemeteries
- Clerk's Office
- Council
- Facilities and Rentals
- Fire and Emergency Services
- Garbage and Recycling
- Library
- Licensing
- Parking
- Parks and Trails
- Planning and Development
- Property Taxes
- Public Works
- Recreation
- Roads and Sidewalks
- Special Events
- Street Lights and Signs
- Transit
- Water Utility
- Water and Sewer
Please contact us if you have any additional questions.
Animal Control
Visit animal control to learn about pet licensing, wildlife and stray pets in the Town of Wasaga Beach. View our frequently asked questions about animal control.
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Who do I call for a stray domestic cat or dog? |
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If you find a stray dog, please call 705-429-2511. We are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The Animal Control Officer responds to calls related to dogs found at large. They don't respond to calls related to wildlife on private property, rabid wildlife or cats. |
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Who do I call for wildlife concerns? |
| If you have questions or concerns about wildlife such as deer, skunks and raccoons, please contact the Ministry of Natural Resources. To report a bear problem, contact the Ministry of Natural Resources Bear Wise program. |
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Who do I call to report a dead animal? |
| If you find a dead animal on municipal property or a roadway, please contact us at 705-429-2511. We are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. |
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Who do I call about an animal with rabies? |
| If you come across an animal that you suspect has rabies, please contact the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit. |
Building Services
Visit building and development services to learn about building permits, design standards and guidelines and building fees. View our frequently asked questions for more details.
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When is a building permit required? |
| In general, a building permit is required to erect, install, extend, alter, relocate or repair a building or demolish a building. Review a complete list of projects that require a building permit. |
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How much does a building permit cost? |
| Permit costs vary depending on the project size and complexity. View the Building Fees and Charges for a complete list of building permit fees. |
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How long does the permit process take? |
| It takes approximately two to three weeks to get a building permit. If you require additional approvals, the process may take longer. |
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Who can create the drawings for a building permit? |
| As the property owner, you can create your own drawings for your house, accessory structures or minor projects. If you hire someone to create the drawings, they must be a qualified and registered designer with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. All registered designers with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing will have a Building Code Identification Number. |
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Can I construct a deck on my property? |
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Yes, you can construct a deck. You will need a building permit. View the Zoning By-law for yard encroachment information. Contact us to discuss any provisions for your property, lot coverage maximums, setbacks and more. |
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What should I do to construct a shed, garage or accessory building? |
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Depending on the dimensions of the structure, you may need to apply for a building permit. Please contact us to determine the permit requirements. View the Zoning By-law for information about the uses of accessory buildings on your property. |
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What if I want to change something after the permit is issued? |
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You need to contact us as soon as possible so we can issue an new building permit. You may need to submit revised drawings depending on the change you want to make. If you begin work without a revised building permit you may need to pay additional expenses and delay the project. |
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How much notice do I need to give an inspector when I'm ready for an inspection? |
| We recommend that you give two business days of notice in order to get an inspection. Our Building Inspectors will try to accommodate your inspection request as soon as possible. Learn how to book a building inspection and find out when you need to get an inspection. |
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Can I put an apartment/in-law suite/secondary dwelling unit in my house? |
| Yes, depending on the zoning of your property. Learn what you need to do to add an apartment or secondary suite to your home. |
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How far from my property line can I build? |
| View the Zoning By-law to find out about the setbacks, lot coverage and structure height for your property. |
Cemeteries
Visit the Town of Wasaga cemetery to find out about interments and visitations. View our frequently asked questions on cemeteries and burials.
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Where is the Wasaga Beach cemetery located? |
| The Wasaga Beach cemetery is located at 610 Sunnidale Road South in Wasaga Beach. |
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How much does it cost for a burial in the cemetery? |
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View our Cemetery Fees and Charges or contact us for burial and interment costs. |
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Am I allowed to plant shrubs or flowers in the cemetery? |
| You're not allowed to plant flowers or shrubs in the cemetery. Find out more about the cemetery policies and view our Cemetery By-law. |
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Are there guidelines for headstones in the cemetery? |
| Learn more about the cemetery and view our Cemetery By-law for information about headstones. |
Clerk's Office
The Clerk's Office is responsible for overseeing by-law enforcement, licensing and Council and committees. Review the frequently asked questions for the Clerk's Office.
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Where do I pay a fine? |
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There are a variety of ways to pay tickets, fines and penalties in the Town of Wasaga Beach. This includes online payments. Provincial fines, such as a speeding ticket can be paid at the Provincial Offences Court in Barrie. You can also follow the payment instructions on the ticket or infraction. |
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How can I find a by-law? |
| View our by-laws to find out about municipal laws to see how we are working to keep our community safe for all residents and visitors. |
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How can I have a document certified or commissioned? |
| Visit the Clerk's Office to learn how to access the services of the Commissioner of Oaths. |
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How do I request records or information? |
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We recommend that you contact us and reach out to the specific department in order to request information. A lot of information is publicly available without making a formal request. |
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What if I'm denied access to information? |
| You can make a Freedom of Information request through the Clerk's Office. Learn how to make a request and find out about the cost and request process. You can access a lot of information without making a formal request. Visit the Clerk's Office for more information. |
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How do I get a copy of a birth, death or marriage certificate? |
| Contact Service Ontario to get a birth, death or marriage certificate. |
Council
Check out some frequently asked questions about Town Council and our committees and boards.
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How can I find a Council or committee meeting agendas? |
| View the council and committee meeting agendas. |
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How can I find Council or committee meeting minutes? |
| View the Council and committee meeting minutes. |
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When is the next Council or committee meeting? |
| View the Council calendar for a complete schedule of upcoming Council and committee meetings. |
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How do I schedule a meeting with the Mayor or a member of Council? |
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Please contact the Executive Assistant to the Mayor and Council and they will help you schedule a meeting. You Can also reach out directly to your Councillor. |
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How do I get a celebratory certificate from the Mayor's Office? |
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Please contact the Executive Assistant to the Mayor and Council and they will help you apply for a congratulatory certificate. We provide congratulatory certificates for special birthdays, anniversaries and special events. |
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Can the Mayor or a member of Council attend an event or ribbon cutting ceremony? |
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Yes, please contact the Executive Assistant to the Mayor and Council and they will help you schedule a representative to attend your event. |
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How do I request a delegation for a Council or committee meeting? |
| Learn how to request a delegation to speak before Council or committee in the Town of Wasaga. |
Facilities and Rentals
Review the frequently asked questions about facilities and rentals in Wasaga Beach.
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What are your hours of operation? |
| The Parks, Facilities and Recreation Office is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. |
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Are there any halls available for rent? |
| There are six halls available for rent in the Town of Wasaga Beach. View our facility rentals. |
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Are there outdoor facilities that can be used for family gatherings? |
| Yes, we have two gazebos and a pavilion. Check out our parks, gardens, trails and beaches. |
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How many baseball diamonds and soccer fields does the Sport Park have? |
| There are five baseball diamonds and 12 soccer fields at the Sport Park. |
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Is there anywhere to play horseshoe in Wasaga Beach? |
| Yes, we have six horseshoe pits at the Sport Park. |
Fire and Emergency Services
Fire and Emergency Services is responsible for emergency response, fire prevention, community education and more. View the frequently asked questions about our Fire and Emergency Services.
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Where are the fire stations located? |
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There are two fire stations in the Town of Wasaga Beach:
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How many smoke alarms do I need in my house? |
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You need at least one working smoke alarm on every floor of your home and outside all sleeping areas. Learn more about the different types of smoke alarms and how to ensure that all your alarms are working properly. |
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Do smoke alarms expire? |
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Yes, we recommend that you replace all smoke alarms once every 10 years. Check the manufacturers instructions to see if they offer an expiry date. Some newer smoke alarms have an expiry date sticker on them. |
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Are carbon monoxide alarms required in homes? |
| Carbon monoxide (CO) alarms are required in all homes that have an attached garage and/or a fuel burning appliance, such as a furnace, water heater, gas cooking range, etc. Learn more about installing and maintaining CO alarms. |
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Do carbon monoxide alarms expire? |
| Yes, we recommend that you replace all CO alarms every 10 years. |
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Am I allowed to burn leaves and twigs? |
| No, view the Open Fires By-law to learn more about burning yard waste. Open Fires By-law. |
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Am I allowed to have a fire in my backyard? |
| Yes, as long as you follow the regulations with in the Open Fires By-law. |
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Do I need a fire permit for a campfire? |
| No, the Town doesn't use a fire permit system. You can have a backyard fire as long as you follow the regulations in the Open Fires By-law. |
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How do I dispose of propane tanks and aerosol cans? |
| Visit the County of Simcoe for landfills where you can drop off hazardous household waste. |
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Is there a safe way to store oily rags? |
| The storage of oily rags is discouraged. Instead, we recommend that you wash or dispose of oily rags. If you choose to store rags containing chemical please purchase an approved storage container designed for this purpose. |
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Does the Fire department have a marine response unit? |
| Yes, we have a marine rescue unit. |
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Does the Fire department have a dive search and recovery team? |
| No, but we do have underwater camera equipment that is used to start search and recovery operations. The the Ontario Provincial Police can perform dive search and recovery rescues. |
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How do I dispose of a portable fire extinguisher? |
| You can drop a fire extinguisher off at either fire station in Wasaga Beach and we will safely dispose of them. |
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How many years is my portable fire extinguishers good for? |
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There is no definite life expectancy of an extinguisher. View the manufacturers instructions for more information about the lifespan of your portable fire extinguisher. Always replace or service an extinguisher right away after it is used or if you notice any damage. |
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How many firefighters does the Town have? |
| The Town of Wasaga Beach has a Fire Chief, Deputy Fire Chief, 20 full-time firefighters and 16 volunteers firefighters. |
Garbage and Recycling
Learn about waste management for the Town of Wasaga Beach. Check out our frequently asked questions about garbage and recycling.
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Who do I contact if I have questions about garbage, recycling or yard waste collection? |
| The County of Simcoe is responsible for waste management and collection services. Please contact the County of Simcoe's Customer Service Centre for all questions about garbage and recycling. |
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How do I get a recycling bin? |
| If you are a new resident, please contact the Customer Service Center at the County of Simcoe, and they will make arrangements to deliver all your recycling bins. If you need replacement or additional bins, visit a the Nottawasaga Landfill Site located at 5715 Sideroad 30 and 31 north of Stayner. You will need to pay for an additional bins. |
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Where can I get a compost container? |
| You can purchase a composter at the Nottawasaga Landfill Site located at 5715 Sideroad 30 and 31 north of Stayner. For information about pricing, contact Costumer Service at the County of Simcoe. |
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What is the yard waste and leaf pick up process? |
| View the County of Simcoe collection calendar for information about yard waste and leaf pick up schedule. |
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Where can I find the Christmas tree collection schedule? |
| View the County of Simcoe collection calendar for information about Christmas tree collection dates. |
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Where is the closest landfill site to Wasaga Beach? |
| The Nottawasaga Landfill Site located at 5715 Sideroad 30 and 31 north of Stayner is the closest landfill site for residents of Wasaga Beach. |
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Where can I purchase bag tags for any extra garbage bags? |
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You can purchase bag tags at the following locations in Wasaga Beach:
For a list of additional tag outlets, please visit Simcoe County Solid Waste Management. |
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Where can I get a copy of the collection schedule? |
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Visit the County of Simcoe for a digital copy of the collection schedule. If you would like a hard copy calendar, you can pick one up at the following locations in Wasaga Beach:
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Library
Visit the Wasaga Beach Public Library to access a variety of books, newspapers, videos, resources, programs and more! View our frequently asked questions to get answers fast.
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How do I get a library card? |
| Visit the Wasaga Beach Public Library to learn how to get a library card. We offer resident, non-resident and visitor library cards. |
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Where can I learn more about checking out resources, length of check outs, renewals and more? |
| Visit the Wasaga Beach Public Library to find out how to check out books and other resources. |
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Who do I contact for any questions about library programs and services? |
| Please contact the Wasaga Beach Public Library for all questions related to the library, including late fees, requesting resources and books, accessibility, etc. |
Licensing
The Town of Wasaga Beach issues a variety of licences. Learn more about each licence and view our frequently asked questions.
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Do I need a business licence to open a business in Wasaga Beach? |
| Yes, all businesses operating in Wasaga Beach must have a business licence. Learn how to apply for a business licence. |
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Can I have a business in my home? |
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If you operate a business from your home, you must have a business license. You're also requried to meet the guidelines in the Business Licensing By-law and Zoning By-law in order to maintain the residential character of the surrounding neighbourhood. |
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Can I sell products on the beach? |
| Ontario Parks has jurisdiction over the actual beach. For more information, contact us. |
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Do I need a special licence for a lottery or raffle? |
| Yes, learn how to apply for a lottery licence in the Town of Wasaga Beach. |
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Do I need a permit for a garage or yard sale? |
| Yes. Each property can host up to two yard sales each year. You do need a yard sale permit. |
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Do I need to licence my dog? |
| Yes, learn how to purchase a pet licence through animal control. |
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How do I get a marriage licence? |
| The Town of Wasaga Beach issues marriage licences. Learn how to apply for a marriage licence and review the fees and applicaiton process. |
Parking
Review the parking regulations for the Town of Wasaga Beach and check out some frequently asked questions about parking.
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How do I pay a parking ticket? |
| Learn how to pay a parking ticket in the Town of Wasaga. |
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Can I park my car on street overnight? |
| Yes, if there are no street signs, then you can park your car on the street overnight. Learn more about parking regulations in Wasaga Beach. |
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Can I park my boat, RV or trailer on my driveway? |
| According to the Zoning By-law, vehicles that are less than 7 meters in length can park in a driveway between April 30 and October 31 each year. |
Parks and Trails
Explore the parks and trails in Wasaga Beach.
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What types of trails are there in Wasaga Beach? |
| There are more than 100 km of on-road and off-road trails in Wasaga Beach. Learn more about trails and check out our trail maps. |
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Does Wasaga Beach have a dog park? |
| Yes, there are two dog parks in Wasaga Beach. Learn more about our dog parks. |
Planning and Development
Planning and Development Services reviews all new development applications to make sure they meet the Official Plan and Zoning requirements. Review our frequently asked questions about planning and development.
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Why didn't I get notice of a public meeting in my mailbox and my neighbour did? |
| Your property may be located outside of the minimum radius as outlined in the Planning Act. View the current development notices. |
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Can I cut down a tree on my property? |
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You don't need a permit to remove trees from a residential property. You can't remove trees if your property is:
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When do I need to pay development charges? How much do development charges cost? |
| You need to pay development charges when you submit a development application. Review the Town of Wasaga development charges. |
Property Taxes
The Town of Wasaga collects property taxes for all property owners. Review our frequently asked questions about property taxes.
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Who do I call if I disagree with the assessed value of my home? |
| If you disagree with your property assessment, you should contact the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC). |
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How do I set up electronic banking payments? |
| Learn about the different property tax payment options and learn how to set up electronic payments through your bank. |
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Why does my property tax bill show an amount owing when I've set up a pre-authorized payment plan? |
| Your property tax bill will state that "You are currently enroled in a pre-authorized payment plan." You don't need to take any action. This bill is for your records only. Money will be withdrawn from your account based on the pre-authorized plan you selected. Learn how to set up a pre-authorized payment plan. |
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How do I cancel a pre-authorized payment plan? |
| Learn how to enrol and cancel a pre-authorized payment plan for your property taxes. |
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How are my property taxes calculated? |
| Learn more about how your property taxes are calculated and use our property tax estimator to get an idea of what your annual property taxes will cost. |
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Why have I received a supplementary tax bill? |
| The Municipal Property Assessment Corporation(MPAC) calculates the assessed values for all properties in Ontario. For newly constructed homes or buildings, the property taxes may not be assessed in full even though the homes have been completed. If the building portion has yet to be determined, you will only be paying taxes on the value of the land and you may receive a supplementary bill. |
Public Works
View the frequently asked questions for the Public Works department.
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Who do I contact about lawn care, plant and tree maintenance on Town property? |
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Please contact Public Works if you have questions about lawn maintenance, such as mowing, pesticides and tree trimming. You can also report dead and fallen trees on Town property to the Public Works department. |
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Do I need a permit to make driveway improvements such as paving, grading, interlocking or edging. |
| Yes, you will need to apply for a Road Occupation Permit. |
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Who do I contact about pothole repairs, shouldering, washouts, street sweeping or other road maintenance? |
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Please contact Public Works and we can answer any questions you have about road maintenance. |
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Who do I contact about drainage issues, such as ditch and culvert maintenance? |
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Please contact Public Works and we can answer questions about drainage in the Town of Wasaga Beach. |
Recreation
Learn about our recreation programs and find out how to register for a program.
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When does the Recreation Guide come out? |
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The Recreation Guide is released twice a year:
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When and how can I register for a recreation program? |
| Find out when and how you can register for a recreation program. |
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What types of recreation programs are available for youth? |
| There are a variety of youth recreation programs available in Wasaga Beach. Whether you enjoy, gymnastics, karate, hockey or soccer, we've got something for everyone. |
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Is there a Youth Centre in Wasaga Beach? |
| Yes! Visit the Youth Centre and find out about youth programing in our community. |
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Are there summer camps for youth? |
| Yes, we have a variety of camps available for youth of all ages. |
Roads and Sidewalks
Review the frequently asked questions about roads and sidewalks.
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Who do I contact about winter road maintenance and snow removal? |
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Please contact the Public Works department if you have questions about winter control and snow plowing. Learn more about winter road maintenance and view our plow schedule and maintenance policy. |
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Who do I report snow plow damage to? |
| Contact Public Works [link to contact module] if you'd like to report damage from the snow plow. |
Special Events
Are you hosting an event in the Town of Wasaga? Review the frequently asked questions about special events.
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Do I need a liquor licence to operate a beer tent or bar at a special event? |
| Yes, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario issues liquor licences for special events. |
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Do I need a permit to sell food at special events? |
| Yes, the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit regulates food vendors at festivals and special events. |
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How do I propose a special event? |
| Learn how to propose a special event in the Town of Wasaga Beach. You need to complete an application. |
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When do I need to submit an event application by? |
| If your proposed event is longer than one day, you need to submit the event application at least 190 days before the event. If the event is one day or less, you need to submit the event application at least 60 days before the event. Learn more about the event application process and forms. |
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How do I add an event to the community calendar? |
| Review our event posting criteria to learn how to add your event to the events calendar. |
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Where can I find the fireworks schedule? |
| If you're looking for the timing of a fireworks display at a special event, this will be listed on the event calendar. |
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Are there any event grants or funding opportunities through the Town of Wasaga Beach? |
| Yes, view the grants and incentives in the Town of Wasaga beach and learn how to apply. |
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Who do I contact if I want to host an event on the beach? |
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Please contact our Special Events Coordinator and they will help you get all necessary approvals to host your event. |
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Do I need emergency services, such as fire or police at my event? |
| This will be determined during the event application process. Learn how to apply to host an event in the Town of Wasaga. |
Street Lights and Signs
View the frequently asked questions about street lights and signs.
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How do I report burnt out street lights or traffic signals? |
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Please contact Public Works to report a burnt out streetlight or traffic signal. |
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How do I request a new streetlight? |
| Learn how to make a streetlight request in the Town of Wasaga if you'd like to request a new streetlight is added in particular location. |
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How do I request new signage or report damaged traffic signs in Wasaga Beach? |
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Please contact Public Works if you'd like to request new signage. Learn about stop sign installations. |
Transit
Learn about the transit system in the Town of Wasaga and check out our frequently asked questions.
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Where can I get information about transit schedules, routes and fees? |
| Visit Wasaga Beach Transit to learn more about our transit schedule, routes and fees. |
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Where can I find the transit map? |
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View our transit map. You can also pick up a copy of the transit map at one of the following locations in town:
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Water Utility
View the frequently asked questions about your water utility.
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How is my water bill calculated? |
| At the Town of Wasaga Beach, water bills are issued every two months. The amount is calculated using a base rate for each billing period (also known as a fixed charge that is payable whether water was consumed or not), plus a consumption charge that is calculated on the amount of cubic meters (m3) of water used. View the current rates. |
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How do I set up electronic banking payments? |
| Learn how to set up utility payments through your online banking. |
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Why does my utility bill show an amount owing when I've set up a pre-authorized payment plan? |
| Your utility bill will show an amount owing, but you don't need to take any action. This bill is for your records only. Money will be withdrawn from your account based on the pre-authorized plan you selected. Learn how to set up a pre-authorized payment plan. |
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How do I cancel a pre-authorized payment plan? |
| Learn how to cancel a pre-authorized payment plan for your water utility in the Town of Wasaga. |
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How do I change my address for my water utility bill? |
| Learn how to change your address on your water utility bill. |
Water and Sewer
View the frequently asked questions about the water and sewer services in the Town of Wasaga.
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How can I arrange a water shut off for my cottage or seasonal residence? |
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Please send us an E-Mail if you'd like to have your water shut off at the municipal curb stop/valve for your seasonal residence. We need at least 24 hours' notice in advance of the shut off request. Appointments are typically booked Monday to Friday from:
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Who do I contact for utility locates? |
| You can contact Ontario One Call for all utility locates. |
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Who do I contact about water quality reports? |
| Please Ontario Clean Water Agency for information about water quality reporting. |
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Who do I contact about the sewage treatment plant? |
| Please Ontario Clean Water Agency for information about sewage treatment. |
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