The Mayor and City Council of Georgetown have issued a stern warning to property owners and vendors regarding the placement of unauthorized items on the city’s parapets, reserves, road shoulders, sidewalks, and other municipal lands. This notice, released on March 5, 2026, reminds citizens that such actions violate municipal regulations.
In accordance with Sections 9 and 10 (1) of the City Government By-laws, as well as Sections 302 (24) and (25) under the Miscellaneous Powers of the Council of the Municipal and District Councils Act, Chapter 28:01, the Council has declared that items positioned on municipal lands without proper approval are considered illegal encumbrances.
The Council specifically identifies the following as illegal encumbrances:
Sand, stone, or other materials placed on parapets or reserves
Unauthorized signs, billboards, or advertisements
Boulders, barriers, or other obstructions
Structures, stalls, or any items installed without written consent from the Council
Property owners and vendors have been granted a one-month grace period from the notice date to remove these encumbrances. The Council has warned that failure to comply will result in the removal of the items by City Council personnel without any further notice.
Furthermore, individuals responsible for these illegal encumbrances may incur administrative costs for removal and could face fines or legal action in accordance with the municipal by-laws.
The Mayor and City Council are urging the public to cooperate fully in maintaining public safety, ensuring accessibility, promoting proper drainage, and enhancing the overall appearance of the city.
