OTTAWA – With spring definitely just around the corner, property maintenance will be an essential service as of May 1.

“Property maintenance and landscaping activities which address potential health, safety and sanitation issues will be deemed essential and therefore permitted, effective May 1,” city staff released in a statement today. “This is to ensure properties remain safe and that property standards are met during the growing season.”

Businesses providing these services for the operation of institutional, commercial, industrial and residential properties and buildings have thus far been permitted to operate on a limited, emergency basis only, in accordance with the provincial regulations in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Landscaping and lawn care businesses providing services strictly for safety, security or sanitation purposes will be allowed as of May 1. These services include lawn cutting, dethatching, rolling, clearing yard and garden debris and aeration.

“In accordance with provincial regulations, all other activities, such as landscaping projects commissioned for aesthetic reasons only, or that involve interlock, fences, decks, etc. will not be permitted until further notice from the province,” city staff said.

Landscaping businesses and individual operations should ensure they and their staff continue to follow the health precautions recommended by Ottawa Public Health:

• Stay home if sick
• Continue to practice physical distancing – stay two metres apart
• No more than five workers should attend the work site
• Wash hands with soap and water frequently (for at least 20 seconds)
• Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces frequently
• Workers who have travelled outside of Canada, or have symptoms, must self-isolate in accordance with public health requirements
• Workers are encouraged to wear non-medical masks

This information is subject to change based on further developments related to COVID-19. For information about impacts of COVID-19 on City programs and services, visit Ottawa.ca.