A fall on a Toronto sidewalk, road, bridge or other city-controlled property can involve legal rules that differ from a claim against a private store or homeowner. One of the most important differences is the potential for a very short written-notice period.
Ontario’s Municipal Act and City of Toronto Act contain notice provisions for certain claims involving municipal highways and bridges. Written notice may be required within 10 days of the injury, including the date, time and location. Exceptions may apply, including reasonable excuse and lack of prejudice, but they are fact-specific.
Not every sidewalk or pathway is maintained by the City. A location may be controlled by a private owner, condominium, transit authority, contractor or another public body. Photograph addresses, signs, landmarks and property boundaries so the correct party can be identified.
General descriptions such as “near the intersection” may be inadequate. Record the closest address, side of the street, direction of travel, distance from a fixed landmark and a map pin when possible. Photograph both the hazard and the wider area.
Snow, ice, broken pavement, construction debris, lighting and drainage conditions may change soon after an incident. Ask witnesses for contact information, request preservation of nearby video and keep footwear and clothing.
A municipality is not automatically responsible for every fall. The analysis may involve maintenance standards, whether a state of non-repair existed, what the municipality knew or should have known, and whether reasonable steps were taken.
Sending a notice does not begin a lawsuit. The general two-year limitation period under Ontario’s Limitations Act may also be relevant, along with discovery rules and exceptions. Because several deadlines may overlap, waiting to investigate can create unnecessary risk.
See Krylaw’s Personal Injury FAQs for related questions.
This article provides general legal information as of September 2026 and is not legal advice. Municipal notice and limitation requirements depend on the location and facts.
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