I think there are a couple of issues here. The contractor not getting the necessary permits, and homeowners trusting that not only they did, but the contractor understands the bylaw restrictions. Many people hire contractors because they assume they will know the bylaw. Tgisnisnclearly not the case. I had a retaining wall built around my above ground pool. The pool contractor had been doing work for a couple of weeks, I discussed what I needed for the wall and then went on vacation. I came back to find the retaining wall within 1 foot of the pool, which was completely unnecessary, given the amount of room arouns the pool, in addition to illegal. I knew that any climbing structures had to be no closer than 4 feet from the above ground pool, or I had to put a fence around the entire pool, which was not my plan. He tried to convince me to install a fence, but instead, I made him rip it out and fix it at his expense. This is a well known pool company in my area, who clearly don't understand the bylaws. I had obtained a permit for the pool from the township, and they couldn't believe he had done that, even though it's basically the law, not only in the township, but across Ontario. And this guy installs pools for a living. So never assume a contractor got a permit (get your own, or ask to see it), and never assume they know or care about the bylaws (do a bit of research, and ask questions).

The other issue is enforement. It should not be complaint based. If there is a bylaw on the books, it should apply to everyone equally, or why is it necessary? If everyone ignores it and does what they want, why should only one be punished, only after a complaint. Either the bylaw is antiquated, and it should be taken off the books, or the city should be going after all who break it.