How can pet owners live safely with coyotes near Markham ravines?Coyotes live throughout Markham’s ravines and the Rouge. The City follows a coexistence strategy: remove food and attractants, never feed wildlife (an immediate $500 fine applies), keep pets supervised or indoors at night, and haze a coyote that comes too close. Backyard fences in rear and interior side yards can be up to 1.8 metres. Report concerns to Markham Animal Services at 905-415-7531.
Families moving from condos to ravine-edge homes in Box Grove, Cornell and near Milne Dam often love the wildlife, and are sometimes surprised to see a coyote at dusk.
Michael John Lau, a REALTOR® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, one of the most active real estate teams in Markham and York Region, shares these tips with pet owners buying near Markham’s green spaces.
Markham's approach
- Markham adopted its Coyote Response and Co-existence Strategy in November 2021.
- Animal Protection and Services By-law 2018-91 bans feeding wild animals or leaving attractants outside.
- The City responds based on the seriousness of each report, from education to, as a last resort, removal.
Seasonal behaviour
| Season | What to expect |
|---|---|
| January to March | Breeding season |
| Spring | Denning and pups; coyotes stay close to dens |
| Late spring to early summer | Higher risk to pets as adults feed young |
Fencing
Markham allows fences up to 1.8 metres in rear and interior side yards, with up to 0.3 metres of lattice within that height, and up to 1.2 metres in front yards and the exterior side of corner lots. Lots backing onto parks or conservation land may have conditions from the subdivision agreement, so check your survey and title before changing a fence.
Looking for a home near green space?
Michael John Lau can short-list ravine and park-backing homes that suit your family and pets.
Book a buyer consultationSearch Markham homesPrefer to talk? Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885.
Pet safety tips
- Keep cats and small dogs indoors or supervised.
- Check the yard before letting pets out, especially at dawn and dusk.
- Walk dogs on a short, non-retractable leash and carry a noisemaker.
- Store garbage, pet food and birdseed securely, and pick up fallen fruit.
- If a coyote approaches, make yourself big and loud, and do not run.
The trade-off
Ravine living brings trails, birdsong and nature at the back door, with a few new habits. Ultimately, the decision is yours. The goal is to make sure you have all the information before you buy.
With a few simple habits, families and wildlife can share the ravines. Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885 or book a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Are there coyotes in Markham?
Yes, especially near ravines, valleys and the Rouge.
Is it illegal to feed coyotes in Markham?
Yes. Feeding wildlife carries an immediate $500 fine.
How high can my backyard fence be?
Up to 1.8 metres in rear and interior side yards.
When are coyotes most protective?
In spring and early summer, when they are raising pups.
What should I do if a coyote approaches?
Stand tall, wave your arms, make noise and do not run.
Who do I call about a coyote?
Markham Animal Services at 905-415-7531; call police if there is immediate danger.
Michael John Lau and Neeraj Moolchandani are licensed REALTORS® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, eXp Realty, Brokerage, 9763 Markham Rd, Markham, ON L6E 1A4. Licence #4784577. Call (647) 370-8885. Strategy, by-law and seasonal details are from the City of Markham Coyote Response and Co-existence Strategy (November 2021). The $500 fine and contact details are from the City's Markham Wildlife page. Fence heights are from the City's Fences and Swimming Pools page. This article is general information only and is not financial, legal or tax advice. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract with another brokerage.
