Planning Questions
Remove signs that obstruct sidewalks
Who is supposed to be enforcing the law regarding signs on sidewalks? It seems that signs such as sandwich boards are blocking sidewalks everywhere from downtown George Town to the Eastern Districts. Auntie’s answer: I am really glad this question was asked. In addition to blocking sidewalks, the sandwich boards often prevent a clear view […]
Outdoor lights disturbing the neighbourhood
Recently one of my neighbours put up some very bright security lights in his large backyard. The lights are on very high poles and the way the lights are aimed they not only illuminate his yard but a good portion of others such as mine. It is like living next to a sports stadium all […]
Elevator certificates out of date
I have noticed that the expiration date of the elevator certificates in some buildings are long past. How can I report the need for them to be re-certified? Auntie’s answer: If you want to report on an elevator that has an expired certificate you can email the applicable section of the Department of Planning at […]
Beach access at Boggy Sand
There is a beach access sign located on the south side of the entrance to the Boggy Sands development being built now on West Bay Road, just north of Cemetery Beach. The first part of the beach access path from West Bay Road to Boggy Sand Road is overgrown with plants and tree roots. The path […]
Resist urge to remove barrier to beach
If it is clearly labelled as public access to the beach and blocked, can’t anyone from the public just tear down the barrier without having to complain to Planning? Auntie’s answer: I realise it is tempting to get in there and take care of the offending blockage yourself, but there are legal considerations. A Department […]
Public access to the beach blocked
Why has the beach access between Regal Beach Club and Laguna Del Mar been boarded up for months now? Auntie’s answer: While I cannot give you an answer as to why the access had been blocked, I can report some good news. I contacted the Department of Planning and a compliance officer was sent out […]
Splitting house into apartments
I’ve been told that a new neighbour wants to convert their house into three apartments. Do they need planning permission for this and do they need to ask permission from their other neighbours? Auntie’s answer: If your neighbour is planning on making the changes you describe, then, yes, he or she needs permission. An official […]
Is advertising allowed on our beaches?
While walking on the beach recently, I noticed a tall advertisement banner planted in the sand, on the beach side of Hyatt. Is this permitted? Auntie’s answer: Advertising is not allowed without getting formal permission. A Ministry of Planning official explained that a banner sign on the beach would require approval from the Department of […]
Unhappy with state of old Hyatt property
I had thought that Cayman government passed a law some years ago that empowered it to charge $25,000 a day to owners of derelict properties. Why then is Dart not charged for the eyesore formerly called the Hyatt hotel, which as many know, is the remains of an amazing property destroyed by Hurricane Ivan. Auntie’s […]
Who controls public access to the beach?
I have received several questions regarding beach access and since the answers are related, I am including all three queries here: 1. I would like to know, and I think the public should know also, who has power and authority to change our public beach access? 2. Is it legal for CPA to give Dart […]
Unfinished walls an eyesore
Can you explain to me why there are so many unfinished block walls (fences) on this island? It seems the people can afford to construct these walls all around their property but when it comes to the final stage of painting or finishing it with a texture they just stop. I see walls that have […]
Combining commercial and residential developments
Is it true that the zoning laws in George Town prohibit mixed use (residential above retail/commercial)? Seems like it would be a good fit to revive GT. Auntie’s answer: The zoning laws do allow for mixed-use developments but, not surprisingly, under specific conditions. A Department of Planning official helped to clarify the guidelines set out […]
Complaining about illegal construction
Recently a friend contacted the Department of Planning about some significant construction at a residence in Webster’s Estates in South Sound. They were told there was no planning permission but that they had only one enforcement officer so couldn’t attend. This seems a little surprising given the extensive requirements for any building or renovation projects, […]
