Resolving Neighbourhood Disputes

In all communities there are differences in opinions. These differences can sometimes escalate into disputes or conflict between neighbours.

Beaumont’s bylaws regulate some aspects of community life, such as excessive noise, unsightly properties, pets, and clearing snow from sidewalks. But not all issues can be regulated and many conflicts can be resolved without involving law enforcement.

The City of Beaumont partnered with Strathcona County Community Mediation to provide people with resources to navigate conflicts with their neighbours, as well as mediation services when a little extra help is needed to reach a collaborative conclusion.

What is conflict?

Conflict is differing or opposing needs, wants, or expectations. Conflict occurs when two or more people have assumptions or expectations that don’t match.

Conflict is not necessarily good or bad – it is a natural element of relationships. It can be dealt with in a constructive manner that will enable resolution and relationship repair.

Tips for handling conflict and emotional situations

Conflicts can sometimes be resolved with the people involved are able to listen attentively, be fair, and are willing to work towards a solution. Strathcona County Community Mediation has prepared a tipsheet with actions residents can follow to handle situations when emotions may be high.

Strathcona County Community Mediation Tips for Diffusing Anger [pdf]

When expert mediation support is needed

Despite our best efforts to resolve our differences, sometimes outside help is needed. Strathcona County Community Mediation is a volunteer organization committed to providing conflict resolution through mediation. With more 25 years of experience, they can mediate conflicts for Beaumont residents at no cost for many types of issues including:

• Neighbourhood disputes including concerns with pets, noise, parking, property boundaries, trees, and fences.
• Family conflicts, such as concerns with aging parents, communication within families, living together, relationship repair, and responsibilities.
• Community organizations, including not-for-profits, condominium associations, sports organizations, and volunteer groups.

Residents can contact Strathcona County Community Mediation directly. They will ask you for more details about the challenge you’re facing and get the process started for mediation. Strathcona County Community Mediation can be reached:

• By phone: 780-464-8445 or 587-598-8445
• By email: communitymediation@sccm.ca

 You can also visit their website for more information about their services and how mediation works.

When City bylaws aren’t being followed

Beaumont’s Municipal Enforcement Officers can enforce bylaws and some provincial laws regarding animal protection, environmental protection, liquor use in public, and traffic safety.

Municipal Enforcement can be contacted if you:

• have concerns regarding a general bylaw matter such as parking, unsightly property, excessive noise, or sidewalk snow removal.
• a concern a pet or other domestic animal that is non-aggressive in nature, such as an animal at large or nuisance Barking.

 Visit the Municipal Enforcement section of our website for more information.

When criminal behaviour or safety is a concern

Call the RCMP for criminal matters and dangerous situations. Dial 911 for emergencies. Non-emergency matters should be reported through the 24-hour complaint line: 780-929-7400