Vulnerable Social Infrastructure By-law Review

The City of Ottawa is considering regulations to provide for safe access to vulnerable social infrastructure like places of worship and religious centres, community centres, schools, daycares, and care homes.

The City of Ottawa is currently developing regulations to prohibit nuisance demonstrations and/or acts of intimidation or obstruction near vulnerable social infrastructure sites to ensure staff and patrons can safely access and use the services and amenities provided at these locations.

As the City of Ottawa considers this issue, we will be seeking community input on key questions:

• What types of vulnerable social infrastructure would benefit from protection? How and when should the protection measures apply to these facilities and sites?
• What type of protection zone or other measures are required to protect safe access, and how should they be administered and enforced?
• Would the community benefit from this type of by-law? How would a person’s fundamental freedoms and rights – like the freedom of thought, belief and expression, and the freedom to peacefully assemble - be affected by the by-law?
• Would a by-law that protects safe access to vulnerable sites but restricts these fundamental rights and freedoms be justified and balanced?

This review is expected to take about nine (9) months to complete, with a report to Council expected in early 2026.

This site will be updated with additional articles and consultation opportunities as the project progresses. Please check back regularly or subscribe to keep informed and share your views.

If you require assistance or are experiencing technical problems with this page, please contact us at bylawreviews@ottawa.ca.