Fire Code violations at East Main Street property result in $22,000 fine

Welland Fire and Emergency Services (WFES) has concluded a prosecution related to serious Ontario Fire Code violations at 17–19 East Main Street, resulting in convictions and a total fine of $22,000, plus court costs, against the property owner.

The case stems from a May 2025 incident when WFES staff responded to the three-storey mixed commercial and residential building, where firefighters found hydro service had been disconnected several days earlier. Without power, critical fire and life safety systems—including the fire alarm system and emergency and exit lighting—were not operating, placing occupants at immediate risk.

A fire prevention officer determined the conditions posed an immediate threat to life under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act (FPPA). An Immediate Threat to Life notice was issued, and temporary safety measures were implemented to protect residents, including temporary smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and continuous fire watch patrols.

Although power was later restored and some deficiencies were corrected, a follow-up inspection identified inadequate fire separations between floor areas. A fire prevention officer issued an inspection order requiring compliance with the Fire Code. A subsequent re-inspection confirmed the work had not been completed by the deadline, leading WFES to proceed with prosecution. In January 2026, the property owner entered a guilty plea on multiple counts in Provincial Offences Court and was fined $22,000, plus court costs.

All identified issues were violations of the Ontario Fire Code and offences under the FPPA. Additional charges related to failure to comply with an inspection order are before the court.

“This case highlights the very real consequences of failing to meet fire safety requirements,” said Matt Richardson, fire chief (acting). “When fire alarms, emergency lighting, and proper fire separations are missing or not working, residents may not have the warning or time they need to escape safely. That places lives at risk, and it’s unacceptable. Property owners have a legal responsibility to ensure their buildings are safe, and we will continue to take enforcement action when those responsibilities are ignored.”

Welland Fire and Emergency Services is committed to proactive inspections, education, and enforcement of the Fire Code to help protect residents and prevent fires before they happen. Landlords and property owners with questions about their fire safety responsibilities are encouraged to contact fire prevention staff at fireprevention@welland.ca.

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For media inquiries, please contact:
Matt Richardson
Fire Chief (Acting) and CEMC
905-735-1700 x2400
matt.richardson@welland.ca