By Tyler Waugh, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Spring has sprung and it's a time when folks turn their attention to home improvement projects, but Petty Harbour-Maddox Cove council has reminded its residents to obtain their permits before getting under way.
The topic came up during the May 19 regular meeting after a number of applications came before council for projects that were already started.
Mayor Ed Dyke noticed that residents lately have been putting in for applications only after they have been caught without one and wondered if the Town shouldn't be more proactive in notifying the community.
"I'd hate to run into a situation where they get something done and then we're stuck in the middle," Dyke said.
"Maybe we send out a reminder to residents as well. Summer season is coming and people may not remember. Maybe it's just a quick (project) like a fence blew down and he wants to throw it back up and it's something he doesn't think about," said councillor Kayla Parsons, adding that the Town could remind residents what permits are necessary and what they cost.
Council approved four applications at the meeting - one to construct a shed at 107 Long Run Road, one to pave a driveway at 61 Motion Bay Road, one for an excavation at 23 Long Run Road and one to repair and extend a fence at 23 Long Run Road.
One application for a garage at 141 Main Road in Maddox Cove was opposed by council, citing that the proposed garage was beyond the 10% variance that could be approved based on current municipal regulations.
Residents looking to learn more about town permits, regulations, bylaws, policies and plans in Petty Harbour-Maddox Cove can visit http://www.pettyharbourmaddoxcove.ca/regulations--town-plan.html.
