The City of Ottawa is conducting a review and update of the Private Approach By-law, which regulates the construction, use and maintenance of private approaches in the city. A private approach is the part of a vehicle access to private property that is on the City’s right of way (i.e. the portion of a driveway that is on City property). Existing rules for driveways and permits can be found on ottawa.ca/driveways. The updated by-law will set the rules for how driveways cross City land, covering design details, permits and maintenance, while also creating clear direction for walkways. These rules will be consistent with the new Zoning By-law. The City is checking its internal processes to ensure permitting is handled smoothly. Review of the technical aspects of the by-law will continue through the fall. Residents will have an opportunity to hear about the updated by-law and give feedback before staff bring their final recommendations to the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee in 2026. City staff welcome the opportunity to answer your questions related to this review. Please send questions through the online tool and staff will get back to you.
