Do I need to register if a building is temporarily vacant?

Check the City definition of vacancy; some short-term vacancy exemptions may exist, but owners should confirm eligibility with By-law Enforcement.

How do I pay registration fees?

Payment methods are set by the City; owners should use the official payment portal or follow instructions on the registration form or by-law page.

What happens if I don’t register?

The City may issue orders, assess fees or fines, and pursue compliance through court or remedial action; specifics are set out in the controlling by-law and enforcement policies.

Markham Vacant Building Registration - Owners

Housing and Building Standards Ontario 3 Minutes Read · published May 24, 2026

Markham, Ontario property owners who have a vacant building must understand registration requirements, payment procedures, inspections, and enforcement steps to avoid orders or charges. This guide explains the registration process, typical obligations, how to pay applicable fees, and the enforcement and appeal pathways used by the City of Markham.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City enforces vacant-building requirements through its By-law Enforcement function and may issue orders or take compliance action where an owner fails to register or maintain a vacant property. For City guidance and contacts see the municipal By-law Enforcement resources^[1].

Fines: not specified on the cited page; consult the official by-law or contact By-law Enforcement for amounts.
Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offences are handled under the by-law framework; specific escalation ranges are not specified on the cited page.
Non-monetary sanctions: compliance orders, remedial work orders, boarding or securing requirements, and referral to court or demolition processes.
Enforcer: City of Markham By-law Enforcement and Building Services staff; inspections are scheduled by those departments and complaints are received through official City channels.
Appeals and reviews: appeal routes or review mechanisms are set by the controlling by-law or provincial procedures; time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited page and should be confirmed with the enforcement office.

Failure to register or to respond to an order can lead to court proceedings or remedial action by the City.

Applications & Forms

Owners should look for a specific Vacant Building Registration form or online portal on the City site. The exact form name/number, prescribed fee amounts, and submission method are not specified on the cited page and must be confirmed with the City of Markham By-law Enforcement or Building Services^[1].

Form name/number: not specified on the cited page.
Fees: not specified on the cited page; fees may include registration and inspection charges.
Submission: check the City of Markham online permits or By-law Enforcement submission instructions.

Actions for Owners

Follow these practical steps to comply:

Confirm whether your property meets the City definition of a vacant building and whether registration is required.
Locate and complete the official registration form or online application if published by the City.
Pay any registration, inspection, or administration fees as instructed by the City.
Respond promptly to inspection notices and comply with any remedial orders.
If you receive an order or charge, follow the appeal steps and deadlines provided by the enforcement notice.

FAQ

Do I need to register if a building is temporarily vacant?: Check the City definition of vacancy; some short-term vacancy exemptions may exist, but owners should confirm eligibility with By-law Enforcement.
How do I pay registration fees?: Payment methods are set by the City; owners should use the official payment portal or follow instructions on the registration form or by-law page.
What happens if I don’t register?: The City may issue orders, assess fees or fines, and pursue compliance through court or remedial action; specifics are set out in the controlling by-law and enforcement policies.

How-To

Determine whether your property is classified as a vacant building under City rules.
Obtain the official registration form or access the City online application (if available).
Complete the form with owner contact, property details, and security/maintenance plans.
Submit the form and pay required fees via the City’s prescribed method.
Arrange and permit any required inspections and follow remediation orders.
If you disagree with enforcement, file an appeal or request a review following the notice instructions.

Start registration early to avoid late fees or enforcement action.

Key Takeaways

Owners must confirm vacancy definitions and register if required.
Fees and form details should be verified with City contacts before submission.
Noncompliance can lead to orders, fines, or court action.

Help and Support / Resources

[1] City of Markham - By-law Enforcement contact and resources