By-Laws & Policies

By-Laws
Municipal by-laws are public regulatory laws which apply in a certain area. The main difference between a by-law and a law passed by a national/federal or regional/provincial body is that a by-law is a made by a non-sovereign  body, which derives its authority from another governing body, and can only be made on a limited range of matters. A local council or municipal government gets its power to pass laws through a law of the national or regional government which specifies what things the town or city may regulate through by-laws.

Within its jurisdiction and specific to those areas mandated by the higher body, a municipal by-law is no different than any other law of the land, and can be enforced with penalties, challenged in court and must comply with other laws of the land, such as the country's constitution. Municipal by-laws are often enforceable through the public justice system, and offenders can be charged with a criminal offence for breach of a by-law. Common by-laws include vehicle parking and stopping regulations, animal control, building and construction, licensing, noise, zoning and business regulation, and management of public recreation areas.

Corporate Policy
City of Belleville, Corporate Policies are sets of basic principles and associated guidelines, formulated and enforced by the Chief Administrative Officer and Senior Management team of the Corporation of the City of Belleville.  Such policies are set to direct and limit actions in the pursuit of long-term goals.

Council Policies
Policies that have been developed to act as guidelines for the elected officials to the City of Belleville.