Living better together
Maintaining good relations with the people who live in your neighborhood means creating a pleasant living environment from which you can benefit. Through simple actions, you can contribute to the quality of life of everyone around you.
Possible conflict elements
- Noise: music, shouting, gatherings, noisy work, etc.
- Animals: droppings, barking, animals without a leash, etc.
- Other nuisances: smoke from open fires, odors or noises from farm animals, etc.
- Personality conflicts
- Mental health disorders
Behaviors to favor
At all times
- Tolerance and respect
- Courtesy in interactions
- Appropriate language
In a conflict situation
- Clearly name the object of the conflict
- Avoid feeding it
- Take psychological and physical distance
- Stay aware of possible delays
- Take action in search of solutions
Steps to take in a conflict situation
- Advise the person with respect of the element of conflict.
- If the situation persists, contact a mediation organization.
- If the mediation process is not conclusive, send a demand letter giving the person concerned 10 days to remedy the situation.
- If there is no improvement, take civil action.
Throughout these steps, we recommend keeping an event log.
Event log
To facilitate your dealings with the various authorities, write clearly, concisely and precisely: Date and time of the event, nature of the event, witness(es) present, brief explanation of the situation (2- 3 lines), solution(s) attempted and result(s).
Mediation
Citizen mediation is a method of conflict management by and for citizens led by volunteer mediators trained by the alternative justice organization, Équijustice Estrie.
Criminal Code of Quebec
Certain conflicts can escalate and lead to a criminal complaint under the Criminal Code of Quebec:
- Harassment
- Intimidation
- Threats
- Assault
Municipal by-laws
Municipal by-laws are there to help maintain peaceful neighbourhoods. By-law 2018-11 concerning nuisance prohibits excessive noise (sound devices, music, construction work, etc.) that could disturb the peace, comfort or well-being of the neighborhood.
Pets: The Société protectrice des animaux (SPA) de l’Estrie is mandated by the municipality to apply the By-law concerning the control and responsible custody of animals.. For more information, please visit: cantondehatley.ca/en/information/domestic-animals/
Open fires: The Régie incendie Memphrémagog Est has a dedicated line for fire prevention, particularly for burning permits. To obtain a fire permit: 873 389-5886 or use our online form. For more information: cantondehatley.ca/en/land/fire-prevention/.
Temporary car shelters: Between October 15 and April 15, a maximum of two (2) temporary car shelters may be installed, for a maximum of two (2) cars per property. Outside this period, car shelters are not permitted.
Concerning the care of farm animals, please consult the urban planning department at [email protected] or [email protected]