The Charter of the French language and its regulations govern the consultation of English-language content.

Following an intervention or investigation, the ombudsman may recommend any action he or she deems appropriate (Sec. 29) and require the senior management to report back to him or her within a specified time period on the actions taken or proposed to be taken to implement the recommendation.

The power to make recommendations is neither coercive nor enforceable. These characteristics reinforce independence by helping to make its action effective and credible.

Recommendations are intended to emphasize a solution-oriented approach by limiting legal recourse.

For reference:

Recommendation search

Results

No results found
2024
Object
Recommendation
Indicateurs de résultat
Status
Object
District de l’Orée-du-Parc

Water infiltration, odors and mold in an apartment building

Recommendation
OMB-SUDD-2024-1.1

Investigation report 2023-3435 (in French only)

It is recommended that the content of the mold inspection report be improved, incorporating the requirements of the standard work procedure, the calculation of affected surfaces and the interventions required according to the level of contamination.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Mold inspection report
Status

BEING UPDATED

Object
District de l’Orée-du-Parc

Water infiltration, odors and mold in an apartment building

Recommendation
OMB-SUDD-2024-1.0

Investigation report 2023-3435 (in French only)

It is recommended that the inspection file be reopened to ensure compliance with section 15 of by-law 538-2023, and that a follow-up with the building’s occupants be carried out within a reasonable time following receipt of this investigation report.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Proof of cleanliness of dwelling and building;
  • Written communication to occupants informing them of the situation and next steps.
Status

BEING UPDATED

2023
Object
Recommendation
Indicateurs de résultat
Status
Object
District du Parc-de-la-Montagne-Saint-Raymond

Nuisances associated with the Scott-Fairview canine exercise area

Recommendation
OMG-SLSDC-2023-1.1

Investigation report 2023-3355 (in French only)

The OG recommends defining standards for buffer zones to attenuate environmental noise, when it is not possible to comply with the 100 m separation distance between residences and a Level III canine exercise area.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Reference document on standards and buffer zones.
Status

BEING UPDATED

Object
District du Parc-de-la-Montagne-Saint-Raymond

Nuisances associated with the Scott-Fairview canine exercise area

Recommendation
OMG-SLSDC-2023-1.0

Investigation report 2023-3355 (in French only)

The OG recommends that a broader citizen consultation process be added to the petition as a mechanism to foster municipal democracy and the social acceptability of a canine exercise area to neighborhood and district residents.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Citizen consultation procedure.
Status

BEING UPDATED

Object
District de Hull-Wright

Noise generated by a heat pump

Recommendation
OMB-SUDD-2023-1.0

Investigation report 2023-3300 (in French only)

The OG recommends scheduling a noise reading in winter, inside the citizen’s bedroom, without the Styrofoam panel in the window and, if possible, with the heat pump in defrost mode.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Inspection report: heat pump noise reading – winter 2024
Status

UPDATED

Object
District de Hull-Wright

Noise generated by a heat pump

Recommendation
OMB-DG-2023-2.0

Investigation report 2023-3300 (in French only)

The OG recommends an overhaul of the noise by-law, taking into account WHO standards and best practices, to regulate environmental noise throughout Gatineau.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Proposal for a new noise regulation;
  • A procedural guide for the application of the regulation.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District de Lucerne

Illegal occupation of a vacant lot and nuisance

Recommendation
OMB-DG-2023-1.1

Investigation report 2023-3286 (in French only)

The OG recommends assessing the administrative and legal conditions for using technological tools such as drones and video surveillance devices to improve the efficiency of inspections, where required.

Indicateurs de résultat
  •  Procedures for the use of selected technological tools, such as drones and video surveillance devices.
Status

BEING UPDATED

Object
District de Lucerne

Illegal occupation of a vacant lot and nuisance

Recommendation
OMB-DG-2023-1.0

Investigation report 2023-3286 (in French only)

The OG recommends that a standing committee be set up with a mandate to establish a specific follow-up plan for disenfranchised occupants and to implement a supervision and authorization protocol, taking into account a risk analysis and the sharing of responsibilities between the municipal departments concerned and external partners, where applicable.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Setting up the standing committee ;
  • Framework and authorization procedure.
Status

UPDATED

2022
Object
Recommendation
Indicateurs de résultat
Status
Object
District de Mitigomijokan

Application of By-law No. 183-2005 for the processing of nuisance applications for excessive barking

Recommendation
OMB-SPVG-2022-1.2

Investigation report 2022-3057/75 (in French only)

The Ombudsman de Gatineau recommends evaluating the possibility of acquiring “Emili Gestionnaire Animalier” or any other computer application, in order to provide the Animal Control Division with modern technological tools to promote the digital shift.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Identification of the chosen computer application.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District de Mitigomijokan

Application of By-law No. 183-2005 for the processing of nuisance applications for excessive barking

Recommendation
OMB-SPVG-2022-1.1

Investigation report 2022-3057/75 (in French only)

The Ombudsman de Gatineau recommends that an information and accompaniment guide intended for citizens be drafted, in simple language, on the process of handling requests for nuisance caused by dogs, with particular emphasis on the witness statement and the constitution of proof.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • An information and support guide for applicants, available on the City’s website, which may include a video, etc.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District de Mitigomijokan

Application of By-law No. 183-2005 for the processing of nuisance applications for excessive barking

Recommendation
OMB-SPVG-2022-1.0

Investigation report 2022-3057/75 (in French only)

The Ombudsman de Gatineau recommends revising the administrative processes, including the procedure for handling requests for excessive barking, with a focus on reducing the number of notices of violation.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Administrative process optimization project (e.g. Lean / Kaizen approach).
  • Revised procedure for handling excessive barking requests.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District de Limbour

Compliance with drainage plan requirements in the development of residential projects

Recommendation
OMB-SUDD-2022-2.2

Rapport d’enquête 2022-3109 (in French only)

The Ombudsman de Gatineau recommends studying the possibility of putting in place additional protection mechanisms for citizens by evaluating, among other things, the subrogation of citizens’ rights, and this, by assuming a leadership role with the other municipalities for a concerted action of quality assurance of the work provided for in the agreements.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Evaluation of additional protection mechanisms for citizens and
    subrogation ;
  • Consultation with the Union of Quebec Municipalities.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District de Limbour

Compliance with drainage plan requirements in the development of residential projects

Recommendation
OMB-SUDD-2022-2.1

Rapport d’enquête 2022-3109 (in French only)

The Ombudsman de Gatineau recommends amending By-law No. 501-2005, to better frame the requirement to provide the drainage compliance report, including the respect of the slopes and the soil bearing capacity report, in order to reinforce the enforcement powers of the by-law.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Proposing an amendment to By-law No. 501-2005 to City Council.
Status

BEING UPDATED

Object
District de Limbour

Compliance with drainage plan requirements in the development of residential projects

Recommendation
OMB-SUDD-2022-2.0

Investigation report 2022-3109 (in French only)

The Ombudsman de Gatineau recommends establishing a specific procedure to obtain the “documents to be provided” required in the construction permit and to ensure a follow-up for the renewal of the permits, when the work is not carried out, taking into account the legal aspects.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Regulatory analysis document and proposed amendments, if any;
  • Procedures for obtaining the required permit documents and for renewing
    renewal of these documents.
Status

BEING UPDATED

Object
District du Versant

The right to train in French

Recommendation
OMB-SLSDC-2022-1.0

Investigation report 2022-3072 (in French only)

The Ombudsman de Gatineau recommends that Ville de Gatineau include in the annual evaluation of organizations, the respect of linguistic requirements, as prescribed by the Charter of the French Language.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Include a specific evaluation criterion for the use of French in the annual evaluation form.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District de Mitigomijokan

Conformity of the earthwork plan of Georges-Lebel Street

Recommendation
OMB-INFRAS-2022-1.1

Investigation report 2022-3067

The Ombudsman de Gatineau recommends to identify solutions to the problem of construction site supervision within the framework of a residential development project carried out by promoters, in order to determine the control measures to ensure the conformity of the work.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Procedure for the application of control measures
Status

BEING UPDATED

Object
District de Mitigomijokan

Conformity of the earthwork plan of Georges-Lebel Street

Recommendation
OMB-INFRAS-2022-1.0

Investigation report 2022-3067

The Ombudsman de Gatineau recommends identifying the best practices to ensure efficient and sustainable drainage of properties during a residential development project, taking into account the geomorphological characteristics of the environment, the specific conditions of the project and the standards in effect.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • List of selected best practices
Status

BEING UPDATED

Object
District de Lucerne

Notice of Violation Concerning the Expansion of a Parking Lot

Recommendation
OMB-SUDD-2022-1.0

Investigation report 2022-3016 (in French only)

The Ombudsman de Gatineau recommends to verify the relevance of clarifying Section 296 of the Zoning By-law No. 532-2020, so that it is easy to understand for the reasonable person.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Decision on the revision of section 296.
Status

UPDATED

2021
Object
Recommendation
Indicateurs de résultat
Status
Object
District de l’Orée-du-Parc

Illegal felling of trees on private property on Audet Street, near a marsh.

Recommendation
OMB-SUDD-2021-1.0

Investigation report 2020-2785 (in French only)

It is recommended that the division of roles and responsibilities between the Service de l’urbanisme and Service de l’environnement staff be clarified as part of the work plan objectives for the revision of tree and canopy protection regulations on private property.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Document on shared roles and responsibilities.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District de l’Orée-du-Parc

Illegal felling of trees on private property on Audet Street, near a marsh

Recommendation
OMB-SUDD-2021-1.1

Investigation report 2020-2785 (in French only)

It is recommended that a knowledge base and specific templates be developed to handle requests for wetland, ecoterritory and green corridor protection, in order to optimize processing by the relevant departments.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Descriptive documents of the knowledge base and associated templates
    templates;
  • Date of implementation in the CANU Pivotal system.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District de Masson-Angers

Incessant noise from the industries on Jean-Louis-Malette Street.

Recommendation
OMB-SUDD-2021-2.0

Investigation report 2021-2805 (in French only)

It is recommended that municipal bylaws be revised to address industrial noise, taking into account provincial standards and evidence.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • A new by-law or amendment to a municipal by-law.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District de Lucerne

Enforcement of animal control regulations for off-leash dogs and the resulting nuisance.

Recommendation
OMB-LSDC-2021-1.0

Investigation report 2021-2832 & Investigation report 2021-2842 ( in French only)

It is recommended that the possibility of including a dog training course in the Culture and Recreation program programming be evaluated.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Feasibility analysis document.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District de Lucerne

Enforcement of animal control regulations for off-leash dogs and the resulting nuisance.

Recommendation
OMB-LSDC-2021-1.1

Investigation report 2021-2832 & Investigation report 2021-2842 ( in French only)

It is recommended that park wardens be trained and involved in the education and promotion of the “code of conduct” for dog owners.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Training plan;
  • Job descriptions for park supervisors.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District du Carrefour-de-l’Hôpital

Nuisance caused by tall grass on vacant lots

Recommendation
OMB-ENV-2021-1.0

Investigation report 2021-2922 (ref. 2020-2682 (in French only))

It is recommended that an assessment be made of the measures and resources required to ensure a maximum five-day turnaround time for requests in order to optimize the processing of requests and improve service to citizens.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Assessment of the measures and resources needed.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District du Versant

Animal control enforcement following a report of a dog bite.

Recommendation
OMB-SPVG-2021-1.0

Investigation report 2021-2983 (in French only)

It is recommended that the case be reopened to complete the dangerousness investigation and re-evaluate whether a behavioral assessment by a veterinarian is required.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Decision following the reopening of the dangerousness investigation file
Status

UPDATED

Object
District du Versant

Animal control enforcement following a report of a dog bite.

Recommendation
OMB-SPVG-2021-1.1

Investigation report 2021-2983 (in French only)

It is recommended that the investigation procedure and minimum requirements for the maintenance and management of dangerousness investigation files be reviewed.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • The Investigation Procedure for Dog Aggressive Behavior Report Cases;
  • The list of essential documents to be filed with the files (examples: evaluation grid, decision tree, interview guide, etc.);
  • Evaluation of the possibility of computerizing the files through the development of an application or through the acquisition of the CIM software.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District du Versant

Animal control enforcement following a report of a dog bite

Recommendation
OMB-SPVG-2021-1.2

Investigation report 2021-2983 (in French only)

It is recommended that an ongoing training plan be established for the animal control section team, including at a minimum the basics of normal aggressive behavior and screening for abnormal aggressive behavior in dogs.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Training plan;
  • The list of protocols for the different ratings of dangerousness (low, medium and high).
Status

UPDATED

2020
Object
Recommendation
Indicateurs de résultat
Status
Object
District de Lucerne

Street cleaning (nuisance).

Recommendation
OMB-ENV-2020-1.0

It is recommended that the Service de l’environnement revise by-law number 658-2010 to define vehicle soiling and to determine the accountability of contractors when their subcontractors soil the public roadway during construction work.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Resolution to Council to amend nuisance by-law number 658-2010.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District du Carrefour-de-l’Hôpital

Nuisance caused by tall grass on vacant lots

Recommendation
OMB-ENV-2020-2.0

Investigation report 2020-2682 (in French only)

Evaluate the relevance of having a different standard of 40 cm for built lots (20 cm) and vacant lots of less than 2000 m2 (60 cm), and this, in an urban environment.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Evaluation completed.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District du Carrefour-de-l’Hôpital

Nuisance caused by tall grass on vacant lots.

Recommendation
OMB-ENV-2020-2.1

Investigation report 2020-2682 (in French only)

Allowing officers to issue a statement of offence, without prior notice of offence, where the owner of a built or vacant lot has received more than one consecutive notice of offence over a minimum two-year period.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Proposal of an amendment to by-law 658-2010 concerning nuisances.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District du Manoir-des-Trembles-Val-Tétreau

Presence of bulky items and other waste materials in inappropriate locations.

Recommendation
OMB-ENV-2020-3.0

It is recommended that the management of the Environment Department implement interdepartmental coordination and consultation mechanisms to manage problematic and recurring situations related to the management of residual materials and nuisances by:

  1. Developing a specific annual action plan to manage the most problematic addresses and “illegal dumping” sites on Gatineau’s territory;
  2. The identification of a file holder responsible for coordinating interventions and interdepartmental collaboration (e.g.: Environnement, Infrastructures, Travaux publics, Urbanisme);
  3. Temporary installation of a surveillance camera on illegal dumping sites, if the situation requires it.
Indicateurs de résultat
  • Consultation and coordination mechanism (number of meetings and services involved);
  • Person responsible/leader of the file;
  • Reduction/list of illegal dumping sites.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District de Hull-Wright

Application of the building code regulations for the installation of a vent for a pellet stove

Recommendation
OMB-SUDD-2020-1.0

It is recommended that the Service de l’urbanisme require the model number or manufacturer’s manual reference when applying for a permit involving the installation of a solid or liquid fuel burning appliance.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • The addition of a section to enter the model number on the permit application form.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District de Hull-Wright

Regulatory compliance in a Service de l’urbanisme notice of violation.

Recommendation
OMB-SUDD-2020-2.0

It is recommended that the Service de l’urbanisme remove from the notice of violation the demolition of the landscaping (flower box) located at the front of the property.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Modified notice of violation.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District de Hull-Wright

Regulatory compliance in a Service de l’urbanisme notice of violation.

Recommendation
OMB-SUDD-2020-2.1

It is recommended that the Service de l’urbanisme improve the form entitled “Document required when applying for a building permit for a residential project – accessory constructions” by adding a space for the signature or the name of the urban planning technician who completed the form and that a copy be kept in the citizen file.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Intervention grids with the names of the employees.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District de Hull-Wright

Regulatory compliance in a Service de l’urbanisme violation notice

Recommendation
OMB-SUDD-2020-2.2

It is recommended that the Service de l’urbanisme assess the appropriateness of amending Section 39.26 of the PIIA regulations to clarify that Schedule H also applies to the Faubourg de l’île sector of the Downtown Consolidation Area.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Resolution to Council amending the PIIA by-law.
Status

UPDATED

2019
Object
Recommendation
Indicateurs de résultat
Status
Object

Eligibility requirements for the ENFEX program.

Recommendation
OMB-LSDC-2019-1.0

It is recommended that the Direction générale improve the content and accuracy of information when a change is made to an existing program and clearly indicate the exclusion criteria when applicable.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Revised content.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District de Pointe-Gatineau

Docks not adapted to non-motorized boats (canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, pedal boats, etc.) following the redevelopment of Jacques-Cartier Street.

Recommendation
OMB-LSDC-2019-2.0

For the year 2020-2021, it is recommended that the infrastructure required for safe launching be evaluated and adapted to the different types of non-motorized boats, including rowing boats.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • List of potential sites;
    Evaluation of the required infrastructure and the types of infrastructure selected.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District de Deschênes

Error in billing for tree trimming work.

Recommendation
OMB-ENV-2019-3.0

It is recommended that the Service de l’environnement provide detailed information on the nature of the work to be done following a notice of violation issued under section 3 of By-law 658-2010 concerning nuisances on the territory of the City of Gatineau.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Addition of detailed information in the notices of violation.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District de Hull-Wright

Communication following an inspection for tree nuisance.

Recommendation
OMB-ENV-2019-4.0

It is recommended that Service de l’environnement revise the communication procedure by replacing the use of the business card with a door hanger to allow the individual to contact the inspector.

 

 

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Printed version of the door hanger.
Status

UPDATED

2018
Object
Recommendation
Indicateurs de résultat
Status
Object
District de Hull-Wright

The quality of information received on:

  • The announced savings for the 4000 seat arena and community ice project;
  • The “Road Master Plan” in reference to the Long Range Financial Plan Committee report of November 9, 2010.
Recommendation
OMB-DG-2018-8.0

It is recommended that the Direction générale improve by-law number 717-2012, concerning the code of ethics and professional conduct for municipal employees of the City of Gatineau, by specifying the title of the person or body responsible for receiving and handling the complaint.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Proposed amendment to the Code of Ethics to add the position title of the person responsible for handling ethics complaints.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District du Parc-de-la-Montagne-Saint-Raymond

Nuisances caused by wood heating.

Recommendation
OMB-DG-2018-10

Develop a regulation specifically for wood burning appliances and environmental impacts.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Proposal for a new regulation or amendment of an existing regulation to regulate wood burning appliances and environmental impacts.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District de Deschênes

Nuisances caused by a long-term construction site in a high-density urban environment.

Recommendation
OMB-SUDD-2018-2.0

It is recommended that the Direction générale develop a by-law that specifically addresses the management of nuisances caused by a long-term construction site in a high-density urban environment.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Revision of by-law number 98-2003.
Status

BEING UPDATED

Object
District de Limbour

The delays in replacing burned out lights in parks and the resulting safety issues.

Recommendation
OMB-TP-2018-1.0

It is recommended that the Direction générale identify priority parks for lighting replacement and develop a program that takes into account the Community Investment Plan.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Prioritization of lighting system replacement for sports fields in the 2021 Community Capital Plan;
  • List of fields.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District de Deschênes

Nuisances caused by a long-term construction site in a high-density urban environment.

Recommendation
OMB-SUDD-2018-3.0

It is recommended that Direction générale improve the business processes between the Service de l’urbanisme et du développement durable (SUDD) and the promoters of major projects in high-density urban areas by including specific clauses:

  1. A social acceptability process before the project begins;
  2. The identification by the promoter of a person responsible for the management of dissatisfactions and conciliation and arbitration mechanisms;
  3. The development of a communication plan for citizens and the territorial director concerned.

 

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Awareness Guide for Developers
Status

UPDATED

Object
District de Mitigomijokan

Turnaround time for processing a septic tank non-compliance request.

Recommendation
OMB-ENV-SUDD-2018-4.0

It is recommended that the coordination mechanisms between the Service de l’urbanisme and the Service de l’environnement be reviewed.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Confirmation of the creation of a joint committee
Status

UPDATED

Object
District du Versant

Damage to the property caused by the emptying of water from a pool located on another property.

Recommendation
OMB-SUDD-2018-5.0

It is recommended that the Service de l’urbanisme to better inform citizens on the best practices to follow when emptying water from residential of residential pools.

In concrete terms, the addition of information on the website should, among other things, encourage citizens to:

  • Avoid discharging pool water into a watercourse, including a stream or river; and stream or river;
  • Stop adding chemicals two weeks before emptying;
  • Encourage draining of water on the lawn of the property when the soil has the capacity to absorb it, as the water will be Encourage draining of water onto the lawn when the soil has the capacity to absorb it, as pool water contains nutrients;
  • Consider the flow rate of the drain water and the slopes of the land to avoid Consider the flow rate of the drain water and the slopes of the land to avoid water migrating onto the neighbors’ land.

     

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Pamphlet on swimming pools including the section “Respect and good neighbourliness”.
Status

UPDATED

Object
District de Lucerne

Nuisance caused by the unauthorized presence of machinery and equipment belonging to a business owner on residential property.

Recommendation
OMB-SUDD-2018-6.0

It is recommended that an internal procedure be established to provide inspectors with tools to more efficiently follow up on individuals who regularly violate Zoning By-law No. 502-2005.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Implementation of a software allowing to have a history of the interventions for each address,
Status

UPDATED

Object
District d’Aylmer

Addition of signage in the Aylmer sector

Recommendation
OMB-SUDD-2018-7.0

It is recommended that the Service de l’urbanisme establish a consultation process, in collaboration with the Traffic and Road Safety Division of the Service des infrastructures, to identify procedures to address atypical intersections and developments.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Setting up the consultation process
Status

NOT RETAINED

Object
District de Hull-Wright

Difficulties encountered in documentary research

Recommendation
OMB-DG-2018-9.0

It is recommended that Direction générale (1) develop a thesaurus (common terminology) to facilitate document retrieval and (2) determine the priorities for the “Electronic Document Management” (EDM) project.

Indicateurs de résultat
  • Thesaurus;
  • List of “EDM” project priorities.
Status

NOT RETAINED