There have always been half a dozen cars parked in front of Underhill's Landscaping, but after nearly 25 years the practice needs to come to an end.
A visit from a bylaw officer late last year has meant the enforcement of the bylaw that prohibits parking in the front of businesses that are less than 15 metres wide. Underhill's Landscaping, located on Howden Road in the Birchmount Road and Lawrence Avenue area, is 12 metres.David Underhill said while his employees have been banned from parking in the front of the business, other similar sized businesses are still allowed to park vehicles in the front yard area."They're not bothering anyone else," he said of the city. Underhill took the issue to the committee of adjustment at the end of January and was awarded three parking spots, which he said isn't enough."I need six minimum...I'm asking for six," he said.Parking is allowed along the side and in the rear of the buildings, but Underhill said that isn't possible because that is where the landscaping equipment is stored. Scarborough Centre Councillor Michael Thompson, who represents the area, doesn't believe the business should have been awarded any legal spots since it goes against the bylaw."It sets a bad precedent in the area," he said. "It's contrary to the bylaw that's in place."As a result, Thompson and the city are appealing the committee's decision, which will bring the issue to the Ontario Municipal Board.Underhill and his family are still debating how they will proceed as a fight at the OMB could be costly.As for the neighbouring businesses that Underhill said are being allowed to park vehicles in front of their buildings, Thompson said if other businesses are breaking the bylaw that issue will be addressed, too.