Illegal encampments are complicated social issues involving people camping on ground they do not own or have authorization to do so by owners of the property. These illegal encampments can usually be found in wooded areas, parks or near bodies of water. Encampments can be abandoned or still in use. When illegal encampments are abandoned it can cost on average $3,000 to clean up the site. If you find an illegal encampment in your neighbourhood call the City at 3-1-1.
Before it can be cleaned up and removed Calgary Police Service must place a 72-hour trespass notice before clearing out the area. It’s recommended that residents wait for CPS or Bylaw Officers to dispose of the encampment properly. All together it could take up to 30 days for a site to be cleared and cleaned.
Additional Resource:
The City of Calgary has a team called the Joint Encampment Team that addresses illegal encampments, supporting occupants with social services and clearing the site.
The Alpha House an agency that serves vulnerable populations in Calgary, the agency has an Encampment team that helps individuals who need relocation and provides support for those setting up illegal encampments with legal accommodations.
To file a complaint or learn more about what to do about an encampment in your area, call 3-1-1.
