Know a yard that turns heads?

Nominate it for the Curb Appeal program!

Each year, the City of Vaughan recognizes community members and businesses who demonstrate exceptional pride and effort in the maintenance of their property with the Curb Appeal program. 

Until Friday, July 3, nominate a neighbour or business who goes above and beyond to make their yard or property look flawless by submitting a nomination form, calling Service Vaughan at 905-832-2281 or emailing greenguardians@vaughan.ca – and don’t forget to include the property address!

Nominees will be visited by a group of dedicated community volunteers who will evaluate each submission. This year, up to 950 Curb Appeal signs will be awarded based on the following criteria:

• Overall aesthetic of the property is visually appealing.

• Property shows the use of variety, colour and textures in plantings and landscape.

• Design incorporates the use of shade trees.

• Property uses perennials and annuals.

• Property shows creativity in design and materials.

• Design uses drought-resistant plantings and other environmental measures, such as rain barrels, to collect water.

• Property uses mulch to help retain moisture.

Winners will receive a Curb Appeal sign to display on their lawn.

Gardening tips

If you are new to gardening or lawn care, here are some tips to help make your property stand out:

• Ensure your grass is cut neatly and free of weeds. To help it grow thick and healthy, add topsoil, seed and water for long periods infrequently instead of short periods often.

• Purchase mulch in a variety of colours to make your garden pop. Not only does it keep soil healthy, but mulch also holds moisture and nutrients, which will help prevent weed growth.

• Incorporate a variety of plants and flowers in your garden. Perennials such as Bee Balms, Russian sages, Begonias and Black-eyed Susans are low-maintenance – and pollinators love them! Annuals like coleus and angelonia are a great way to add height and bright colours to your garden.

• Consider adding stones or rocks in different colours and sizes.

• Include an illumination or water feature, such as lamps or a small fountain.

Any home with an encroachment is not eligible for nomination.​The City defines encroachments as any vegetation or landscaping from private property crossing onto all or a part of a public walkway, driveway or property. 

Outdoor water use restrictions are in effect! 

Remember, the City’s Water By-law 024-2024 (PDF) restricts outdoor water use from May 15 to Sept. 30 each year. This water conservation measure ensures an uninterrupted supply of water for everyone to use.

Outdoor watering is allowed from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on permitted days:

• Even-numbered days for even-numbered street addresses.

• Odd-numbered days for odd-numbered street addresses.

To learn more about the City’s Curb Appeal program, visit vaughan.ca/CurbAppeal.

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