Policing in the Township of Lanark Highlands is provided by the O.P.P. on a contractual basis. At present, approximately 85% of costs are related to salaries. The Ontario Provincial Police Association (OPPA) negotiates with the Provincial Government in determining OPP salaries. Costs related to individual municipalities are, at present, calculated by the number of officers per municipality which is generally determined by the calls for service within the municipality. At present, Lanark Highlands enjoys one of the lowest rates in policing in Lanark County.

Starting a Neighbourhood Watch Program in Lanark Highlands Township

Neighbourhood Watch is a program aimed at reducing crime in the community. It involves getting to know one’s neighbours and introducing them to the concept of Neighbourhood Watch – that is, good neighbours working together, alert to the potential of crime and willing to look out for one another’s interests. Neighbours working together through Neighbourhood Watch can combat crime in their area the most effective way – before it starts.

Neighbourhood Watch provides a means of reducing the opportunity for crime to occur, through the active participation of citizens in crime prevention. Citizens are taught how to make their homes less inviting as a target for thieves; how to participate in Operation Identification, making their personal property less desirable to burglars; and how to be alert to suspicious activity in their neighbourhoods.

Very few people are in a position to protect their homes and property all of the time. Vacation, business, and shopping trips, or even an evening out will leave homes unattended and vulnerable to theft. The Neighbourhood Watch program will provide a sense of security for individuals or families who leave their homes for any length of time. The program will also help to co-ordinate the efforts of the police and the community in tracking down criminals. Strong community involvement is encouraged because neighbourhood unity can deter crime. Neighbours joined together do help correct situations that threaten their peace and safety.

So…how can you start one in your neighbourhood? Start by canvassing your neighbours to find out which households in the area are willing to participate. Once these households have been identified, the Lanark County OPP is more than willing to attend and provide a Neighbourhood Watch presentation focusing on securing your home / property, Operation Identification, and reporting suspicious activity. Upon completion of the presentation, homeowners are provided Neighbourhood Watch decals for their windows and doors.

If interested in starting your own Neighbourhood Watch program, please contact the Lanark County OPP at 613-267-2626 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. and ask for the Community Service Officer.

Classes of Builidng Permits/Permit Fees

The Lanark County Development Charges By-Law comes into effect January 1, 2022.

The by-law applies to all lands in Lanark County. Development Charges are to be collected by the local municipality at the time of building permit issuance.

Learn more about Lanark County Development Charges.

A Building Permit and the associated inspections ensure that your project is in compliance with the Ontario Building Code. Not only is this your best protection from future liability associated with unsafe construction practices but is a legal requirement.

The Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority ( 613-253-0006) or The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (613-692-3571) must be contacted to determine the septic requirements for all new single family dwellings and most additions to existing dwellings.

Septic Approvals in the Township of Lanark Highlands

Septic Tank Maintenance is Your Responsibility

Septic systems require maintenance. As a property owner, it is your responsibility to have your septic tank maintained and pumped out on a regular basis. Studies have shown that routine pumping of a septic tank is necessary for proper performance and treatment of wastewater. Faulty systems may lead to costly repairs and the compromise of water quality and public health. 

If you have not had your septic tank pumped out within the last 3-5 years, please act responsibly and hire a licenced septic tank hauler to pump out your tank.

Routine pumping will provide you with the peace of mind knowing that your septic tank is in good working order and capable of handling additional wastewater from your home.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We look forward to
working with you.

Eric Kohlsmith, Septic Inspector
10970 Highway 7, Carleton Place, Ontario K7C 3P1
613-253-0006 ext. 256

Terry K. Davidson, P. Eng. Director of Regulations and Chief Building Official
3889 Rideau Valley Drive, Manotick, Ontario K4M 1A5
t. 613-692-3571 or 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1107
terry.davidson@rvca.ca

An entrance permit must be in place either from the County of Lanark or the Township of Lanark Highlands Public Works Department prior to the issuance of a building permit. Final inspection of the entrance permit must be completed before occupancy is permitted in new construction projects.

Entrance Permit and Costs

• Entrance Permit - $100
• Entrance Permit if culvert is required and owner installs - $200
• Entrance Permit if culvert is required and township installs - $1,000

Civic Address & Post Application and Costs

• Civic Address Sign & Post $84.75 (includes HST)
• Replacement Sign only $39.55
• Replacement Post only $50.85

• Licenced hunting dogs require a valic MNR licence
• Micro-chip papers must be provided in order to obtain a micro-chipped dogs licence
• Micro-chipped dogs are required to be registered and wear a valid dog tag

Animal Control Services enforce the Regulate the Keeping and Control of Animals(To Regulate the Keeping and Control of Animals) and Regulate the Keeping and Control of Animals - Amended which make owners responsible for their pet’s actions, helps return lost pets to their owners and ensures pets are a positive addition to the community.

An animal shall be deemed to be running at large if found any place other than the premises of the owner and not under the control of any person. The Animal Control Officer may seize any animal found running at large in the Township and cause such animal to be impounded or returned to the owner.

Owners of a dog shall take all precautions necessary to prevent the dog from barking in order to not disturb the peace and quiet of any residence or persons in the vicinity.

Dog owners must pick up after their pet. Owners of a dog who allow waste to be placed on public property or private property not owned by the dog owner are liable to a fine.

The Dog Owners Liability Act (DOLA) requires that ALL Pit Bulls be spayed/neutered, on a leash of no more than 1.8 metres in length, and muzzled when off the property of the owner. When on the property of the owner, the property must be securely enclosed to prevent the pit bull from breaking out of the property.

Pit bulls can be seized by Animal Control if it is felt they are behaving in a menacing manner, have bitten or attacked a person or animal, or are considered to be a Prohibited Pit Bull (i.e. one that has not been spayed/neutered).

It is illegal to give away or sell Pit Bulls or their puppies in Ontario. The only agencies that can sell or give away these dogs are pounds and shelters.

Failure to comply with the Dog Owners’ Liability Act (DOLA) could result in charges or the dog could be ordered destroyed. For a copy of the DOLA or further information please visit www.e-laws.gov.on.ca

Spaying/Neutering can help to prevent your pet from wandering, and reduces the risk of many diseases. Every year unwanted animals end up in municipal pounds, cared for at public expense. If you are unable to keep your dog/cat, call Animal Control or your local pound or shelter. Please do not leave these animals to fend for themselves. This practice is inhumane and against the law.

Animal Control and Animal Cruelty are two different agencies. When considering which agency to call consider this - Animal Control protects people from animals, Cruelty Agents (OSPCA) protect animals from people. If you suspect animal cruelty or neglect, please call the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA) at 613-310-7722.

Keeping your flock safe from predators is critical. Information on preventative measures and compensation after the fact can be found on the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs website at www.omafra.gov.on.ca or by calling 1-877-424-1300.

If you are the owner of livestock or poultry and have suffered a loss of livestock due to predation by a coyote, wolf or stray dog please call the Livestock Evaluator.

Contact Information
Livestock Evaluator, Ross Creighton
613-256-4752

The Bear Wise Program teaches people about black bears as well as things they must do to keep bears away from urban and semi urban areas. For more information, visit the Bear Wise Program.

"Charitable gaming" refers to lottery schemes permitted by a licence under the Criminal Code of Canada. Typically these may include bingos, raffles, break open tickets and social gaming events held by charitable and religious organizations. Charitable organizations are regulated by licencing policies and the terms and conditions of the licences issued by the province or municipalities under authority of an Order-in-Council.

Canada's Criminal Code only permits charitable and religious organizations to conduct lottery schemes to raise funds pursuant to an issued lottery licence. Organizations must have a demonstrated charitable or religious mandate to qualify. The courts have determined that the term "charitable" refers to organizations which provide programs for:

• the relief of poverty;
• the advancement of education;
• the advancement of religion; and
• other charitable purposes beneficial to the community.

The following are prerequisites to be considered eligible for a lottery licence:

• Organizations must have been in existence for at least one (1) year;
• Organizations must have a place of business in Ontario;
• Organizations' primary purpose must be to provide charitable services in Ontario; and
• Organization must use the proceeds of any lottery scheme for objects or purposes which benefit Ontario residents.

The primary purposes of an organization are determined by considering:

• the mandate of the organization as set out in its' incorporation documents or documents stating the organization's objectives;
• the objectives of the organization as described in its' application for licence; and
• the services which have actually been provided by the organization to the community.

Under Order-in-Council 2688-93, municipalities may issue licences to conduct the following lottery schemes:

• Bingo events with prize boards $5,000 and under;
• Media bingo events;
• Raffle lotteries for total prizes $50,000 and under;
• All break open ticket lotteries not licenced by the provincial office; and
• Bazaars (Bingo maximum $500; Raffle maximum $500; maximum 3 wheels of fortune).

• Determine what type of lottery scheme your organization intends to conduct;
• Obtain the appropriate application form from your local municipal office or the province; and
• Complete the form according to the instructions on the form and the policies provided by the municipal office or as set out in the guide for that lottery event and submit it along with the applicable licence fee to the municipal office.

First time applicants should, in addition to the materials required with the application as identified in the lottery licencing policies, provide the following information or documents:

• A copy of the articles of incorporation or constitution and/or by-laws.
• A copy of the budget or financial statements for the preceding and coming years.
• Any other information that will assist in determining the charitable nature of the objects and purposes. This could include an annual report, charitable number for income-tax purposes and the fact that it meets the reporting requirements of the Charities Accounting Act.
• The proposed use of proceeds must be consistent with the primary objects and purposes of the organization which must be of a charitable nature consistent with at least one of the four classifications of charitable purposes.

The types of organizations which cannot be considered charitable include:

• social clubs.
• professional associations, unions, employee groups.
• elected representative groups including municipal, regional, provincial and federal governments.
• government ministries, agents or bodies.
• political lobby groups.
• political parties.
• adult hobby groups.
• private sports clubs (e.g. golf/curling).
• adult sports teams.

• Bingo & Media Bingo:3% of total prize board.
• Raffle: 3% of total prize value.
• Break Open Tickets: 3% of prize value per box.
• Bazaar: 3% of prize value for bingo or raffle; $10/wheel.

For organizations that have previously held a municipal lottery licence, forty-eight (48) hours is required from the time the completed lottery licence application and documentation are submitted to the municipal office, until the licence is issued. This will ensure efficient and accurate licencing of all organizations.

Lottery licencing for the Township of Lanark Highlands is a function of the Clerks’ Department. You may contact the municipal office with any questions.

Further information about lottery licencing and the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario may be obtained by visiting their website. The Lottery licencing Policy Manual may also be accessed by visiting their website.

In municipal politics, the Committee of Adjustment (COA) is a quasi-judicial body responsible for making decisions regarding certain land-use applications, typically in relation to zoning bylaws and official plans. The committee has the authority to grant minor variances and consent applications (land severances), which are generally related to land-use or property development that do not conform to the established zoning regulations, but are deemed minor enough not to warrant a full zoning bylaw amendment.

Applications to the Committee of Adjustment will be processed in accordance with the requirements of Sections 45 and 53 of the Planning Act, applicable regulations (O.Reg. 200/96 and 197/96 as amended), the Statutory Powers Procedures Act and applicable Township policies.

Note: The committee holds public hearings, allowing neighbors and interested parties to provide feedback on the applications.

 Their decision is based on the information presented at the hearing, which includes staff reports, public comments, and considerations for the broader community’s well-being.

Agendas & Minutes - Committee of Adjustment

Contact:
Nicole Guthrie, Clerk
Phone Number: 613-259-2398 ext 231
Sarah Hobbs, Planning, Building and Clerk Administrative Assistant
Email: 

What is a Police Services Board

Many members of the Community have asked “What is the Police Services Board?” and “What do they do?”

The Lanark Highlands Police Services Board is comprised of: Councilor, Steve Roberts (Council Appointee),  Michel Vermette (Municipal Appointee position).

The Lanark Highlands Police Services Board is one of seven boards which contract policing from the Ontario Provincial Police in Lanark County. Pursuant to the Police Services Act of Ontario, the following are the responsibilities of the Board:

1. participate in the selection of the detachment commander of the detachment assigned to the municipality or municipalities;
2. generally determine objectives and priorities for police services, after consultation with the detachment commander or his or her designate;
3. establish, after consultation with the detachment commander or his or her designate, any local policies with respect to police services. However, the board or joint board shall not establish any policy that conflicts with provincial policy with respect to police services);
4. monitor the performance of the detachment commander;
5. receive regular reports from the detachment commander or his or her designate on disclosures and decision made under section 49 (secondary activities); and,
6. review the detachment commander’s administration of the complaints system under Part V and receive regular reports from the detachment commander or his or her designate on his or her administration of the complaints system.

Along with the legislated duties, the P.S.B. is considered a bridge between the community and the police. The board takes an active role in hearing community concerns and addressing them with the Detachment Commander or his designate for action.

For meeting dates, agendas and minutes click here

FOR INFORMATION
Contact: Chelsea Rath, Lanark Highlands Police Service Board Secretary
Phone Number: 613-259-2398 ext 252
Email: 

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) provide policing services to the Township on a contractual basis. If you have specific concerns or comments about the Police Services, please contact any member of the Police Services Board or the Interim Detachment Commander, Karuna Padiachi, at (613) 267-2626 ext 4410

The Lanark Highlands Recreation Advisory Committee consists of the following members:

• Marina Summers (Chair & Council Representative)
• Leigh Brown
• Susan Breckenridge
• Jan Kammersgaard
• Roger Young

Terms of Reference

For meeting dates, agendas and minutes click here

FOR INFORMATION
Contact: Chelsea Rath, Manager of Facilites/Community Affairs
Phone Number: 613-259-2398 ext 252
Email: 

The joint planning committee oversees and co-ordinates activities and advocacy directed at the achievement of common goals which are consistent with the mission and vision of The North Lanark Community Health Centre and The Township of Lanark Highlands.

The joint planning committee shall consist of a minimum of two community members, two members representing the Township of Lanark Highlands and two members representing The North Lanark Community Health Centre. The Chair of the Board of Directors of Lanark Health & Community Services and the Mayor of the Township of Lanark Highlands are ex officio members.

The committee shall meet quarterly or at the call of the Chair and will be conducted at a time and place convenient to the members of the committee.

The Lanark Highlands Public Library Board consists of the following members:

• Tom Shoebridge
• Wayne Stryde
• Margaret Malfara
• Lindsey Rickan
• Gregory Drew
• Susan Athrens
• Deputy Reeve Bill King (Council Representative)

For meeting dates, agendas and minutes click here

There are eleven municipalities in the watershed represented on a 17 member Board of Directors. Central Frontenac, Addington Highlands, Greater Madawaska, Tay Valley, Beckwith, Carleton Place (2 members), Drummond/North Elmsley, Lanark Highlands, Mississippi Mills (2 members) , North Frontenac, City of Ottawa (5 members).

The role of the Board of Directors is to  establish policies of the Authority, define programs and services  to achieve its mandate, determine and monitor annual expenditures, direct management, and advocate the work of MVCA in their community.

Township of Lanark Highlands
MVCA Representative: John Hall

For meeting dates, agendas and minutes click here

MUNICIPAL GRANTS COMMITTEE MEMBERS NEEDED

The Township of Lanark Highlands is currently recruiting members for the Recreation Advisory Committee. The Committee will be composed of one member of council and four members of the public. The Committee will review and assess municipal grant applications submitted by proponents requesting municipal grant funding. Meetings will be held during the hours of 9:00am and 4:00pm Monday – Friday annually.

Terms of Reference and Application

To apply please email your application to:
Chelsea Rath, Manager of Facilities/Community Affairs – .
613-259-2398 ext.252

Deadline To Apply: November 28th, 2022 4:00pm

OR drop off your application in person at the Municipal Office –
Located at 75 George St. Lanark, ON.
Office hours are 9:00am-4:00pm Monday – Friday.

We look forward to working on the development of our community in a positive and collaborative environment.

For meeting dates, agendas and minutes click here

The Lanark County Climate Action Implementation Working Group provides direction for the implementation and reporting of Lanark County’s Climate Action Plan.

The purpose of the Climate Action Working Group is to:

• Provide direction to the implementation and monitoring of the Climate Action Plan (CAP)
• Provide reports and recommendations to County Council about climate action and the CAP
• Liaise and engage with the community, stakeholders, and lower-tier municipalities in Lanark County, and the Climate Network Lanark (CNL) Working / Advisory Groups about climate action and the CAP
• Assist, if needed, the lower-tier municipalities in Lanark County with their corporate CAP
• Respond to climate change concerns from the community by finding opportunities for climate action that address community concerns
• The committee will work to build a consensus on direction and recommendations for staff to present to the reporting Committee of the Whole meeting

The term of the Climate Action Working Group will continue for the remainder of this term of council.

As the structure of the Working Group requires involvement from each local municipality, the Township of Lanark Highlands is seeking interest for one (1) representative from the Township to sit on the Working Group.

If you are interested and would like to apply, please view the Terms of Reference and Application below.

Application Form Municipal Representative LC Climate Action Committee 2023

Climate Action Working Group Terms of Reference

The deadline to apply is February 27th, 2023, at 4:30 p.m.

Please forward all applications to:
Township of Lanark Highlands
Amanda Noel, Clerk
75 George St. Lanark, ON, KOG 1K0

613-259-2398 x 231

Role and Purpose of the Waste and Recycling Committee

The Lanark Highlands Waste Committee (LHWC) will provide waste diversion and efficiency advice, recommendations, and information to Council concerning waste issues related specifically to the Waste Master Plan, programs and projects that affect the municipalities waste component.

LHWC has no powers of either approval or veto over any decision, activity or program of the municipality.

Committee Structure

Composition
LHWC will consist of 6 members, including 1 member of Council and 1 member from the Public Works Department. The 4 remaining members will be appointed by Council and shall be residents of the Township of Lanark Highlands, representing a cross-section of our community with an interest or / expertise in waste related matters and ideally to have representation from the rural farm community, business community, professional community, residential community and youth community.

Waste and Recycling Committee Terms of Reference

The deadline to apply is July 24, 2024, at 4:00 p.m.

Please forward all applications to:
Township of Lanark Highlands
Chad Kean
Manager of Public Works
75 George St. Lanark, ON, KOG 1K0

613-259-2398 x 239