Mississauga has strengthened its bylaws to protect residents and property from stray golf balls flying off golf courses and driving ranges into nearby neighbourhoods.
City council approved new amendments this week requiring golf facilities located close to residential areas to install and maintain proper safety measures, including higher or heavier containment netting where needed. Failure to comply could result in a $305 fine starting April 6, with more serious penalties ranging from $500 to $100,000 for repeated or major violations.
City officials say errant golf balls can land in backyards, driveways, sidewalks, and roadways, causing damage to vehicles, windows, and siding while also posing risks to people, pets, and wildlife.
“Residents deserve to feel safe in their homes and neighbourhoods,” said Georgios Fthenos, Mississauga’s director of enforcement, adding that the updated rules set clear expectations for golf operators and give city staff stronger tools to respond to complaints.
The bylaw changes come after several incidents reported last summer, including cases near Credit Valley Golf and Country Club where golf balls left the course at high speed and damaged property. In one incident, a resident was nearly struck in the head.
Mississauga currently has 10 golf facilities, including public courses, private clubs, and driving ranges. City staff noted that few other major Ontario municipalities have specific bylaws addressing safety hazards caused by stray golf balls, making Mississauga one of the first to introduce such regulations.