New provincial enforcement tool marks major win in Caledon’s fight against illegal land uses

CALEDON, ON (May 20, 2026) – Today, the Town of Caledon reaffirmed its position as a municipal leader in addressing illegal land uses, following the Province of Ontario’s announcement of new enforcement tools for municipalities.

The changes, which are aimed at strengthening municipal enforcement powers related to illegal land uses and unauthorized truck yards, represent a significant win not only for Caledon but for municipalities across Ontario facing similar challenges. The announcement also reflects years of advocacy led by Mayor Annette Groves to secure stronger enforcement measures and better provincial support for municipalities.

Caledon’s advocacy intensified after Mayor Groves appeared before the Standing Committee on Heritage, Infrastructure and Cultural Policy in August 2024, urging provincial action on illegal truck yards and unlawful land uses. Since then, she has continued to push for stronger enforcement tools and intergovernmental collaboration to address historical gaps in land use controls that have impacted residents and rural lands.

“This is a win for our community and a significant step toward addressing the spread of illegal truck yards across Caledon and within our natural areas,” said Mayor Annette Groves. “I want to thank the Province for recognizing the seriousness of this issue and for providing municipalities with the tools needed to take meaningful action. Today’s announcement reflects the value of sustained advocacy and strong intergovernmental collaboration.”

Since 2024, the Town of Caledon has prosecuted over 40 illegal truck yard operations and event centres as part of its ongoing efforts to protect public safety, preserve agricultural lands, and uphold community standards.

“Illegal land uses continue to present serious challenges for municipalities, particularly in areas of public safety, environmental protection, and community impact,” said Judith D’Souza Soares, Commissioner of Community Services. “These new provincial tools will help strengthen municipal enforcement and improve our ability to achieve compliance.”

The Town welcomes the Province’s announcement as an important step toward strengthening municipal enforcement capabilities, accelerating compliance measures, and creating stronger deterrents against illegal land uses that negatively impact communities, infrastructure, and the environment.

Caledon will continue working collaboratively with provincial partners, neighbouring municipalities, and enforcement agencies to ensure these new tools are effectively implemented and that communities have the resources necessary to protect residents and maintain responsible land use planning.

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Media contact:
Communications
905.584.2272 | communications@caledon.ca
www.caledon.ca | @TownofCaledon

About Caledon 
Caledon is home to close to 80,000 residents and 4,000 businesses and is well-known for its natural attractions, rural charm and vital role in the economic engine of the Greater Toronto Area. It will soon be one of Ontario’s fastest growing communities as it prepares to become a city of 300,000 residents and 125,000 jobs by 2051. Under its current strategic plan, Caledon’s priorities remain environmental leadership, community vitality and livability, enhanced transportation and mobility, and service excellence and accountability. For more information, visit Caledon.ca or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Bluesky and X (formerly Twitter).