What forms of evidence may a PSO collect to support enforcement actions?

• A. Only video surveillance.
• B. Personal opinions of the PSO.
• C. Photographs, measurements, field notes, witness statements, and records of communications with property owners.
• D. Only verbal statements from neighbors.

Answer: (C)

When enforcing property standards, build the case with objective, verifiable records that document the condition, its extent, and the actions taken. Photographs provide a visual record of the site at specific dates, showing the actual conditions that violate the by-law. Measurements quantify the size, distance, or extent of the issue, turning a qualitative observation into a precise, enforceable fact. Field notes capture what was observed, when, and under what circumstances, offering context and a contemporaneous account that supports other evidence. Witness statements can corroborate observations, add helpful perspectives, and help establish a fuller picture of the situation. Records of communications with property owners show the effort to engage, the responses received, and the timeline, which is important for due process and for demonstrating a ongoing compliance effort.

This combination is stronger than relying on a single type of evidence, such as video surveillance alone, personal opinions, or only verbal neighbor statements, because it creates a complete, well-supported, and defensible enforcement record.